Charles Darwin Research Centre, Galapagos

Few people have revolutionised the way we see the world more than Charles Darwin.

His theories have unlocked the story of life, they have helped us understand our origins, and they have even shown a light on the many underlying evolutionary forces that guide us every day.  He has also become something of the hero of all the content you’re reading in this challenge – so I think he certainly deserves to have this important research centre named after him.

Conservationism, as we know it today, was still in its infancy during Darwin’s life, but the spirit of enquiry and discovery, the commitment to following the thread of truth no matter where it might lead, and the deep, abiding appreciation for the wonders and beauty of the natural world, are values that Darwin and his namesake research centre most definitely share.

The CDRC is committed to pushing the boundaries of humanity’s knowledge of the natural world a little further every year, and to protecting and conserving the irreplaceable natural wealth of these islands.  They work closely with the local national parks authority, providing them with cutting-edge knowledge on changing animal, weather and environmental patterns to help them with their work.  They also focus strongly on education, teaching visitors and residents of all ages the secrets of our shared natural heritage through outreach programmes and their exhibition hall.