Research warns of the threat of flooding on the Galapagos Islands

• Statues on the Galapagos Islands are threatened by flooding until 2080.
• Research shows that nearly 50 cultural sites may be at risk of flooding.
• Various measures are being proposed to protect the statues from rising sea levels.

Statues on the Galapagos Islands, which are part of the cultural heritage, may be threatened by flooding due to rising sea levels. According to new research published in Journal of Cultural Heritage, potential waves could submerge 15 statues on the Ahu Tongariki platform by 2080.

The research, conducted by Noah Pau, a graduate student at the University of Hawaii, created a digital model of the eastern coast of the island and simulated potential impacts of rising sea levels. The findings revealed that waves could reach Ahu Tongariki, an important tourist site that currently attracts tens of thousands of visitors.

In addition to its economic significance, Ahu Tongariki holds great cultural importance for the indigenous population of Rapa Nui. This site is located within the boundaries of Rapa Nui National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

On the island, nearly 900 statues are located, which were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 10th and 16th centuries. The threat of flooding is not new, as in 1960 a large earthquake triggered tsunamis that already impacted some statues.

The research underscores a global problem: cultural heritage sites around the world are facing risks due to rising sea levels. Along with a recent report from UNESCO, nearly 50 World Heritage sites are at high risk of flooding.

Researchers propose different options for protecting Ahu Tongariki, including reinforced coastal barriers and the possibility of relocating statues. Pau hopes that the results of the research will spark discussions about these issues soon to avoid irreversible consequences.

Tags: Ecology/Research