Setting the Scene: Human Activities, Environmental Impacts and Governance Arrangements in Antarctica

Demonstration of “substantial research activity” to acquire consultative status under the Antarctic Treaty

“…The majority of research stations are constructed in scarce coastal ice-free areas, which harbour Antarctica's richest terrestrial habitats, penguin rookeries and seal haul-out sites (Convey et al 2012). Station construction and operation generally results in substantial environmental impacts that are greater than ''minor and transitory'' in nature (see Annex I to the Protocol; Poland et al 2003;Tin et al 2009;Kennicutt et al 2010;Tin et al 2014). Consequently, in areas such as the northern Antarctic Peninsula and its offshore islands, where approximately 50% of research stations are already located, there may be intense competition between humans and indigenous fauna and flora for remaining ice-free ground (Chwedorzewska & Korczak 2010;Hughes et al 2011;Braun et al 2012).…”

“…Consequently, in areas such as the northern Antarctic Peninsula and its offshore islands, where approximately 50% of research stations are already located, there may be intense competition between humans and indigenous fauna and flora for remaining ice-free ground (Chwedorzewska & Korczak 2010;Hughes et al 2011;Braun et al 2012). Recorded impacts include disturbance or displacement of wildlife, destruction of habitat, environmental pollution and introduction of non-native species (Tin et al 2009;Hughes, Pertierra et al 2015;Coetzee & Chown 2016). Impacts can be amplified where stations operated by several Parties are co-located (Braun et al 2012).…”

Towards a tipping point? Exploring the capacity to self-regulate Antarctic tourism using agent-based modelling

“…Antarctica comprises the area South of latitude 60 degrees, an area that is increasingly affected by human activities (Tin, Lamers, Liggett, Maher, & Hughes, 2014). Antarctica is remote, fragile, and potentially dangerous with extreme weather conditions.…”

“…Decision-making and implementation have been ad hoc and sporadic instead of offering long-term comprehensive governance strategies (Amelung & Lamers, 2006;Bastmeijer & Roura, 2004;Lamers et al, 2012). More strategic approaches to managing Antarctic tourism, aimed at developing a long-term vision, have been proposed as an alternative (Bastmeijer & Roura, 2004; see also Tin, Liggett, Maher, & Lamers, 2014).…”

Assessing the effectiveness of specially protected areas for conservation of Antarctica's botanical diversity

“…Human activity in Antarctica, predominantly involving national governmental operators and the tourism industry, is growing rapidly (Tin et al 2014). For logistical reasons, coastal locations are favored for tourist visits and research activities, including construction of stations and other logistical facilities of national Antarctic programs.…”