Holidays to Antarctica 'are damaging air and water quality'

The influx of tourists to the South Pole is causing a devastating effect on the natural environment in the region, one researcher has found.

In a study commissioned by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), it was discovered that waters around the pole are becoming increasingly polluted and CO2 emissions generated by the long journeys contribute to global warming.

Dutch scientist Machiel Lamers, who wrote the report, commented: "The visitors to the snow-covered landmass are endangering not just the Antarctic region by their actions, but also the rest of the world."

He added that tour operators who provide trips to the southerly continent need to be closely regulated to minimise any impact on the polar region.

Mr Lamers' research also revealed that poorly prepared companies can find themselves in difficulty in one of the most inhospitable environments on the planet, with help often provided by other tour operators or scientists at the pole.

Last month, a Russian cruise ship carrying more than 100 passengers hit the headlines when it became trapped in pack ice in the Weddell Sea.

Posted by Joseph Hutton