Antarctica Case Study

What are the attractions to tourists?

• Most affluent people who can afford to travel to travel to Antarctica live hectic lives in heavily populated areas. They are therefore attracted to Antarctica because it is one of the most untouched and unusual places in the world, and therefore offers a completely different experience to most mainstream holidays. 
• A great many of the tourists to Antarctica are looking for adventure in a remote and physically challenging environment. They like to take risks and are attracted to activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, helicopter rides and the experience of camping in such a desolate environment. 
• Tourists are also attracted to Antarctica by the abundance of wildlife and the landscape. For example, it is the only place in the world that tourists can walk among massive penguin colonies in the wild. Antarctica also has 35 species of birds. 
• Lots of people travel to Antarctica to visit the beautiful and dramatic landscape. This includes cliffs, mountains, volcanoes and shifting icebergs to see and explore. 

Issues associated with tourism:

• There are no permanent residents in Antarctica and the region does not need to tourism to help fund the economy and provide jobs for local people as in other countries and regions. Whilst it is recognised that people must be able to region, tourism does raise some important issues.
• The eco system is very fragile and too many visitors can upset the balance. Wildlife colonies can be disrupted by a large number of visitors (especially arriving by motorised transport such as speed boats and helicopters) and this can effect breeding and behaviour patterns.
• Visitors can bring in bacteria, micro organisms, and seeds which can have an impact on the existing wildlife. 

How is tourism controlled?

• All activities are regulated by the Antarctic Treaty and the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic treaty, however many countries have not signed up to this.
• Tourism is largely managed by the international Association of Antarctic Tour Operators. It's members agree to practice and promote safe and environmentally responsible private travel to the Antarctic. This voluntary code regulates the type and duration of land visits, restricts access to certain areas and describes how people must behave.