ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the legacy of human effects on the Antarctic environment and the measures adopted to mitigate the impacts. Localised chronic, long-term pollution in the nearshore marine environment is associated principally with human activities at major scientific stations. Cumulative impacts have been greatest on those ice-free margins of the continent that have proved most accessible and that have a long history of occupation. There is a concern about increased levels of marine traffic associated with tourism and the potential for major incidents in biologically vulnerable areas such as the Antarctic Peninsula. Human impacts on some sub-Antarctic islands have been severe, particularly where introduced species have competed with the natural floras and faunas. However, results of global significance have been emerging from the research conducted there and some impacts on the environment are part of the necessary price to pay, but the paradox is that such work requires an unpolluted and undisturbed environment.
