Submarine Cables and the Marine Environment: Bringing the First Submarine Cable to the Galapagos

Abstract

Renowned for its unique flora and fauna, the Galapagos Archipelago is also home to a growing population of more than 25,000 people. Despite receiving approximately 200,000 tourists each year, and having governmental and nongovernmental offices, two airports, and various other human developments, the Archipelago’s telecommunications remain largely dependent on satellites. The absence of submarine telecommunication cables has not gone unnoticed, and the Archipelago is currently in the spotlight for two potential submarine cable projects. Although the environmental impact of submarine cables is generally deemed to be minimal, the pressure that new anthropogenic activities may add to the Galapagos cannot be disregarded. Two important aspects warrant specific attention in this regard: The Galapagos Archipelago’s surrounding waters have been designated as a marine protected area (MPA) and also a particularly sensitive sea area (PSSA) by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Hence, using the Galapagos as a case study could serve as yardstick from which to assess the central question of this article: To what extent can coastal states regulate submarine cable operations for the protection and preservation of the marine environment?