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The
body that monitors tourism in the Antarctic is calling
for official limits on the number of tourists to protect
the continent from environmental damage.
'We need to get regulations in place before it is too
late,' said Alan Hemmings, an environmental consultant
working on behalf of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean
Coalition.
In 2003 the British Antarctic Survey predicted that the
number of visitors arriving in Antartica on cruise ships
could reach 27,000 a year by the end of the decade. That
figure has already been surpassed, hitting 28,000 last
year, and if growth continues at the same rate it could
exceed 80,000 by 2010.
'We are not opposed to tourism, but we are concerned
with how to manage it safely so we don't muck it up for
future tourists and scientists,' said Hemmings.
'Most operators and boats are good at dealing with the
dumping of waste - that is not an immediate concern, but
policies should be put in place before it becomes one.'
Tourism is focused on the Antarctic Peninsula, at 20
specific sites known for fantastic wildlife and stunning
scenery, but research has suggested the presence of humans
can put stress on wildlife and alter its behaviour.
Hemmings suggests a limit on the number of tourists should
be made before they reach 100,000 a year and that the
intensity of activity should be limited, stopping vehicles
and helicopters going ashore, and that there should be
an independent body to regulate environmental impact.
A spokesperson from Journey Latin America, a member of
the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators,
said: 'We agree visitor numbers to Antarctica should not
be allowed to increase to a level which could cause damage
to such a fragile and precious ecosystem.'
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Guardian
Unlimited -
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