Extreme Environments - Case Study

Question 1

Where is Antarctica?

Answer 1

Continent at the Earth’s South Pole.
Covers an areas of about 14 million km2.
98% covered in ice.

Question 2

Provide evidence that the number of tourists visiting Antarctica is increasing?

Answer 2

7413 in the 1996/1997 season.

46,000 in the 20007/2008 season.

Question 3

What is the ecosystem like in Antarctica?

Answer 3

Its very cold and doesn’t get much sun in winter so the land ecosystems is fragile.
Takes ages to recover from damage.
Seas ecosystem is also delicately balanced.

Question 4

How can tourists damage the Antacrctica environment?

Answer 4

Trample on plants, disturb wildlife, drop litter.
Accidentally introduce non-native species or diseases that could wipe out existing species.
Spillage of fuel from ships.