The costs and benefits of tourism in Polar Regions

... The costs and benefits of tourism in Polar Regions Polar tourism has grown rapidly in recent years, bringing an influx of new visitors to add to the traditional indigenous and scientific occupants. Tourism in these regions has provided an attractive proposition for tourists and governments alike with governments receiving needed income that can boost their national and local economies. Tourists equally are guaranteed a "nature experience" in a relatively undisturbed setting and often the possibility of experiencing unique Arctic cultures and Polar environments. The attraction of these places with their abundance of natural beauties is attracting increased numbers, demanding more infrastructure and facilities. Some of these expectations are realistic, some less so and meeting them can pose both a threat and an incentive to biodiversity conservation. Beginning with the Arctic and following with the Antarctic, this paper will examine the growing phenomenon of polar tourism outlining both its benefits and costs.

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