Tourism in Antarctica has grown significantly in recent years due to attractions like penguins and magnificent scenery. However, increased tourism is putting pressure on the fragile Antarctic environment. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) created guidelines to promote responsible tourism, but not all tour operators follow them. There are concerns that without better regulation, issues like pollution, wildlife disruption, and potential ecological disasters from cruise ships could seriously damage Antarctica if visitor numbers continue rising as predicted. Environmentalists worry that without action, Antarctica could be transformed from a nature reserve into an unsustainable tourist destination.

1. Lesson 16:Case study 3 – Antarctica.By the end of the lesson you will know the issues that are faced in Antarctica due to the growth of tourism.

2. Starter…Try to write down as many reasons why tourists wish to go to Antarctica in 1 minute!

3. Why do tourists want to go to Antarctica?Magnificent sceneryIcebergsNesting penguinsClose up wildlife experience

4. Tourist numbers…Antarctica is becoming increasingly popular, and this popularity is enhanced even more by Film documentaries like ‘March of the Penguins’. It is described as people having ‘penguin fever’.In 2008 alone there were up to 35 million Tourists visiting Antarctica.This massive number was due to cruise ships in the location and the ‘penguin fever’ issue.

5. The IAATO; who are they?The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators.Guidelines have been set up but these are Not mandatory – another words they do not have to be followed.

6. What rules did the IAATO create?Do not walk within 5metres of penguins and other wildlife.Do not walk on lichens.Do not leave litter or waste.

7. Who follows the IAATO?Most cruise ships carry 60-100 passengers and abide and follow the rules in place.Two large ships, which carry 400 passengers have not signed up and do not abide by the rules. These ships allow a 100 passengers on Antarctica at a time. With so many tourists it is difficult to ensure that all the rules are met.

8. How could you be a responsible tour operator in Antarctica?Firstly, follow the rules of IAATO.Other responsible tour operators Lecture Their tourists to instill Responsible attitude whilst visiting Antarctica.

9. What worries do you think there are for the future?What do you think may happen to Antarctica in the future?More problems?

10. The future…Visitor numbers are predicted to double in The next ten years which could lead to problems like:Sea and coastal pollutionLitteringDamage to flora and faunaDisruption of breeding patterns (the peak tourist season and breeding season coincide with one another.

11. Cruise ships.Currently passenger cruise liners with 1000 passengers sail to Antarctica BUT they do not land any passengers on shore. YET! If one was to hit ice and sink it would be a huge ecological disaster. These ships are not ice-strengthened and they use heavy fuel oil.There could be the development of commercial air strips, larger ships and helicopters.

12. Frightened environmentalists…There are major concerns that ski slopes could be set up on Antarctica.Environmentalists are very concerned That Antarctica could be transformed into a Theme park, rather than a very fragile nature reserve.

13. Homework.GeoActive‘Ecotourism in Antarctica: Damaging a fragile environment?’Answer the following questions: 1, 2a and b, 4a and b, 5a and b and 6.

14. Case study 3: Tourism in an extreme environment – Antarctica.Turn to page 247 in the textbook and answer all the questions on Antarctica.