Antarctica is facing increasing pressure from human activity as tourism and research expand. Visitor numbers have surged from fewer than 8,000 annually in the 1990s to over 124,000 in 2023–24, with projections suggesting up to 450,000 by 2034. Researchers from Chile, Germany, and the Netherlands studied 2,000 kilometres of the continent over four years and found toxic metals such as nickel, copper, and lead in human-frequented areas are now ten times higher than four decades ago. Tourism alone contributes substantial CO₂ emissions, with each trip generating an average of 5.44 tonnes per passenger.
Pollution, Snow Melt, and Ecosystem Risks
The study warns that human presence disrupts wildlife, tramples fragile flora, and increases the risk of invasive species. Black carbon from ships, aircraft, and generators darkens snow, accelerating melting, with a single tourist potentially contributing to the loss of around 100 tons of snow. Research expeditions can have ten times the impact of a tourist visit. While the Antarctic Treaty bans heavy fuel oils and IAATO enforces biosecurity and wildlife guidelines, experts say these measures are insufficient. Only a rapid shift to renewable energy and cuts in fossil fuel use can reduce the human impact and preserve the continent’s fragile ecosystems.
