Polar Travel And Its True Impact

The Icy Dilemma: Can We Explore the Poles Without Destroying Them?

A visit to the Earth’s poles was once the preserve of hardened explorers and dedicated scientists. Today, these remote, frozen landscapes beckon a growing number of tourists. They are drawn by images of otherworldly beauty: vividly coloured houses against a stark, white backdrop in Greenland, or the sheer immensity of Antarctic ice shelves. The allure is undeniable, but as visitor numbers climb, experts warn of the immense pressure on these fragile and vital ecosystems. A critical question now faces the global community: can the economic benefits of tourism be balanced with profound environmental responsibility?

An Unprecedented Surge in Polar Travel

Both the Arctic and Antarctic are experiencing a tourism boom of historic proportions. In Antarctica, the 2023-24 season saw nearly 123,000 visitors, a staggering increase from just 8,000 in the mid-1990s. This sharp rise is alarming for conservationists, who point to the risks of disrupting delicate food webs and introducing invasive organisms. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) now oversees the majority of visits, but the sheer volume of people presents a formidable challenge. The problem is not just the number of tourists but the nature of their visits, with a growing demand for deep-field experiences like skiing and mountaineering.

The Arctic Awakens to Mass Tourism

The Arctic is witnessing a parallel trend, driven largely by an increase in cruise ship activity. From 2013 to 2024, ships entering the regulated Arctic Polar Code area increased by 37%. Greenland, in particular, has become a focal point. Visitor numbers grew by 46% between 2018 and 2023. This growth is set to accelerate with major infrastructure projects. The new international airport in the capital, Nuuk, which opened in late 2024, and two more airports planned by 2026, will make the vast island more accessible than ever. This expansion promises economic benefits but also brings Greenland face to face with the challenges of over-tourism seen in other near-Arctic destinations.

Image Credit - ASOC

Governing the Vast, Frozen Wilderness

Managing human activity across these vast regions falls to a handful of key organisations. In the south, the Antarctic Treaty System, with its Environmental Protocol, designates the continent as a natural reserve dedicated to peace and science. IAATO, a member organisation of tour operators founded in 1991, translates these principles into practical guidelines for its members, aiming to ensure travel is safe and responsible. In the north, the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) performs a similar function, establishing standards for operators to minimise their environmental and cultural impact. These bodies play a crucial role, but they face an ever-growing challenge as the industry expands.

The Heavy Footprint of Polar Transport

The journey to these remote locations is the first and most significant environmental hurdle. A polar cruise passenger can generate approximately 5.44 tonnes of CO2, a figure three times higher than taking a flight for the same journey. While global aviation accounts for 2.5% of CO2 emissions, the shipping industry contributes a slightly larger 3%. Cruise ships are disproportionate polluters within this sector. Despite making up only 1% of the global fleet, they are responsible for 6% of the world's black carbon emissions. This soot is especially damaging in polar regions, as it darkens ice and snow, accelerating melting by absorbing more sunlight.

The Hidden Disruption of Cruise Ships

Beyond emissions, large vessels introduce other serious problems. A ship carrying 3,000 passengers can generate around 800,000 litres of sewage each week. There is also the issue of underwater noise. The constant hum of engines has been shown to disrupt the echolocation that whales and other marine mammals rely on to navigate, communicate, and find food. Animation based on tracking data vividly shows blue whales becoming trapped in shipping lanes, forced to constantly change direction by the cacophony of vessel traffic. This acoustic disturbance adds another layer of stress to wildlife already grappling with a rapidly changing environment.

Image Credit - Intrepid

Seeking Lower-Impact Alternatives

For the environmentally conscious traveller, alternatives to flying or cruising do exist, though they require more time and planning. From a climate perspective, train travel offers a significant reduction in emissions. Reaching parts of the Arctic by rail is a viable option. Direct train services connect Stockholm with Narvik in the Norwegian Arctic, and other routes run from Trondheim to Bodø and Helsinki to Rovaniemi. While a flight may still be needed for the final leg, integrating rail can cut the journey's carbon footprint by as much as 90%. For those with a larger budget, chartering a small sailing boat offers an even lower-impact way to experience these regions.

The Rise of Greener Shipping Technology

The cruise industry itself is beginning to respond to pressure for greater sustainability. Many new vessels launching in 2025 are powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), which produces significantly fewer emissions than traditional marine fuels. Some smaller expedition ships now use hybrid-electric systems with battery power, reducing noise and emissions in sensitive areas. While still in its early stages, hydrogen fuel cell technology is also being tested as a potential zero-emission solution. These technological shifts, combined with a focus on waste reduction and energy efficiency, signal a move toward a more responsible model of cruising.

The Perils of the Wildlife Selfie

A primary motivation for many polar visitors is the chance to see iconic wildlife, from penguins to polar bears. However, the desire to capture the perfect photograph can lead to harmful disturbances. Official guidelines from bodies like IAATO and AECO stress the importance of maintaining a respectful distance. Visitors are reminded they are guests and must give animals space, avoiding any action that might alter their natural behaviour. Chasing after an animal for a selfie can cause significant stress, particularly during sensitive breeding or moulting seasons. Drones are also heavily restricted or banned by passengers to prevent unnecessary disturbance to colonies.

The Art of Patient and Respectful Observation

Experts advise that patience is the key to rewarding wildlife encounters. Animals in these remote regions, unaccustomed to humans, are often naturally curious. By sitting quietly and remaining still, a visitor might find a penguin or seal approaching them. Local guides offer invaluable knowledge, helping visitors interpret the landscape and spot signs of animal life they might otherwise miss. Looking down to spot footprints or scat in the snow can be as revealing as scanning the horizon. It fosters a deeper appreciation for the entire ecosystem, not just its most famous inhabitants.

Staying Safe in an Unpredictable Environment

Respect for wildlife also extends to personal safety. The polar environments are beautiful but potentially dangerous. Visitors must be prepared for severe and changeable weather, with appropriate clothing and equipment. Fur seals, for example, can be aggressive, and IAATO guidelines recommend staying at least 15 metres away where practicable. Following the instructions of experienced guides is paramount. They possess the training to navigate challenging terrain and unpredictable wildlife, ensuring that human presence remains as unobtrusive and safe as possible. Visitors should never stray from their group or walk onto glaciers without proper gear and experience.

Minimising the Food Footprint

The carbon footprint of a polar journey extends beyond travel to the food consumed. Transporting supplies to remote Arctic and Antarctic bases carries a significant environmental cost. Globally, food systems are responsible for a substantial portion of greenhouse gas emissions. One way to mitigate this is to support local food sources where available and appropriate. This approach not only reduces transportation emissions but also provides direct economic benefits to local communities. It requires a shift in thinking, moving away from familiar imported foods and embracing regional products.

Image Credit - Pelorus Travel

The Case for Eating Seal

This might sound like a drastic step for many, but in places like Greenland and parts of Arctic Canada, there is a strong environmental and cultural argument for consuming local products like seal. Many Inuit communities continue to rely on subsistence hunting, a practice protected by law and regulated to ensure sustainability. Studies have shown that the carbon footprint of locally hunted seal meat in Greenland is significantly lower than that of imported alternatives like pork or poultry. Choosing local meat supports Indigenous food sovereignty and a more sustainable food system in a region with limited agricultural options.

A Complex Web of Hunting Regulations

For Indigenous communities, subsistence hunting is not a tourist attraction but a cornerstone of culture, nutrition, and economy. However, hunters often navigate a complex and sometimes conflicting set of regulations from different government bodies. In Alaska, for instance, a dual management system exists where state and federal boards regulate the same animal populations depending on where they are located. This regulatory maze can be at odds with traditional, holistic approaches to ecosystem management, creating challenges for communities adapting to a changing climate and its impact on animal migration patterns.

Packing with Purpose and Practicality

Thoughtful preparation can further reduce a visitor's impact. Instead of buying new, specialised cold-weather gear, travellers can often hire it in-country. This lightens luggage, reducing aircraft fuel consumption, and directly supports local businesses. For those venturing into more remote areas for activities like camping, this is an especially practical option. Beyond the obvious base layers and waterproofs, some simple items are often overlooked. A nasal spray can combat the dry air of cold environments, which can cause discomfort and nosebleeds. High-factor sunscreen is also essential, as the polar sun can be surprisingly strong.

The Unseen Threat of Invasive Species

One of the most significant ecological risks from tourism is the unintentional introduction of non-native organisms. Seeds, spores, and insects can easily hitch a ride on boots, clothing, and equipment, posing a grave threat to fragile ecosystems that have evolved in isolation. To combat this, strict biosecurity measures are in place. Visitors are required to meticulously clean and inspect their gear before going ashore. This includes vacuuming pockets and Velcro fastenings and disinfecting footwear. These simple actions are a critical line of defence in protecting polar biodiversity from irreversible harm.

Aligning Travel with Nature's Rhythms

A successful and responsible polar journey requires synchronising with the natural world. Planning a trip around specific events, whether it is the migration of humpback whales or a particular bloom of tundra flowers, leads to a more rewarding experience. Attempting to see certain wildlife outside of its seasonal patterns will likely lead to disappointment. For instance, visiting Greenland in October to see whales is ill-timed, as most will have already begun their migration south. Researching the best time of year for specific interests is crucial and underscores a fundamental principle of modern polar travel.

Beyond the Perfect Social Media Post

Ultimately, a journey to the poles should be guided by what is best for the environment, not by what will generate the most impressive social media content. The increasing accessibility of these regions brings a shared responsibility. Every visitor becomes an ambassador, and their choices collectively determine the future of these last great wildernesses. By making informed decisions about transport, respecting wildlife, supporting local communities, and adhering to strict biosecurity protocols, travellers can help ensure that the Arctic and Antarctica remain protected for generations to come. The icy dilemma is complex, but with conscientious effort, exploration and preservation can coexist.