Tourism in the Antarctic

Antarctic tourism represents the largest and fastestgrowing commercial activity on the Antarcticcontinent. Under consideration of its unprecedentedgrowth and diversification the Antarctic tourismsector is viewed with increasing scrutiny andconcern. This concern is expressed in discussionssurrounding the success and effectiveness of theexisting regulatory framework for Antarctic tourismand asks what changes might be required to adequatelyprotect the Antarctic continent in the future.Tourism development in the Antarctic may well proveto be a first test of the stability and success ofthe Antarctic Treaty System. In fact in view of therapid development of Antarctic tourism structuralinstitutional and legislative changes are necessaryif Antarctic tourism regulation is to remain successful.