Antarctica's Visitors Are Becoming Citizen Scientists to Help Protect the Continent

Antarctica remains one of the planet's last nearly untouched regions. A decade ago, around 33,000 tourists visited annually; now, that figure has surged to over 74,000 [PDF]. However, this influx brings non-native species that threaten fragile ecosystems, exacerbating damage to heavily visited areas and contributing to pollution.

To mitigate the environmental impact of tourists in Antarctica, researchers and polar expedition companies are working to balance the risks to the delicate environment with the goal of promoting stewardship of this remote area—by involving the tourists directly.

A 2012 study revealed that each Antarctic traveler inadvertently spreads an average of 9.5 non-native seeds across the continent. These hitchhikers aren’t just limited to seeds; recent studies show that tiny marine organisms from around the globe hitch rides on ships heading to Antarctica. While this might seem minor—compared to issues like oil spills, plastic waste, and sewage from cruise ships in other oceans—any invasive species can destabilize ecosystems where they lack natural predators. Over time, foreign plants and animals introduced by humans can establish themselves, outcompeting native species [PDF].

Established in 1991, the International Antarctic Association of Tour Operators (IAATO) advocates for “environmentally responsible” tourism to the icy continent. This involves rigorous measures to prevent the introduction and spread of non-native species, as well as integrating the latest scientific findings into their tourism guidelines. Such proactive steps are essential for safeguarding the continent’s ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of their operations.

IAATO, alongside its network of researchers, is now inspiring tourists to make a meaningful contribution to the South Pole—and the planet as a whole.  

Citizen Science Initiatives in Antarctica

“Rather than simply informing visitors about Antarctic research, we engage them directly through citizen science initiatives,” Allison Cusick explains to Mytour. “It’s a hands-on, immersive experience.”

Cusick, a Ph.D. candidate in biological oceanography at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, co-created the FjordPhyto project to study the impact of melting glaciers on phytoplankton populations along the western Antarctic Peninsula. Alongside her team, she has recruited over 4000 tourists as citizen scientists to collect water samples and assess the productivity of marine ecosystems during their once-in-a-lifetime journeys.

FjordPhyto partners with the Polar Citizen Science Collective (PCSC), a hub for scientists launching polar citizen science projects and tour operators eager to provide these experiences to their clients. Beyond FjordPhyto, the PCSC has facilitated collaborations for studies on topics like cloud observation and marine mammal tracking. This partnership benefits both sides. “Citizen science allows us to broaden our research scope while fostering curiosity about the natural world,” Cusick notes. 

Building Antarctic Advocates

Antarctic travelers also play a role once they return home. IAATO’s members urge their guests to become “Antarctic ambassadors” by sharing their experiences and promoting conservation efforts.

It’s not just about offering an unforgettable journey, Daniela Cajiao tells Mytour, “but about ensuring these transformative experiences have a lasting impact.” Cajiao, who recently completed her Ph.D. at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, co-authored a study earlier this year exploring the post-trip behaviors of Antarctic tourists. She found that while guides emphasize the importance of supporting policies to protect the fragile environment, this doesn’t always lead to tangible environmental actions.

Modern Antarctic travelers are more engaged with the social dimensions of exploration and prefer interactive activities, such as citizen science programs, over traditional lectures, Cajiao explains. Her research indicates that citizen science projects and tailored adventures align with these preferences and are linked to tourists taking environmental action after their trips. This is vital for Antarctic conservation, she emphasizes; concrete actions, not just intentions or emotions, are what will safeguard the polar ecosystem.

“Why should we care about this vast icy wilderness?” Cusick asks rhetorically. “Because it plays a critical role in the health of our entire planet.” Experts agree that concern for the South Pole shouldn’t be confined to scientists alone.

When we feel inspired to explore a place and witness its beauty firsthand, we forge a profound bond with something greater than ourselves. The goal is to ignite a sense of awe so powerful that it lingers with Antarctic visitors well beyond their journey home.