Pollution in Antarctica

This chapter examines the historical legacy of human activities in and around Antarctica and assesses pollutants from the mid-late 20th century onwards that will have lasting impacts, potentially thousands of years into the future. First, we examine some well-known anthropogenic pollution threats, principally from the impact of tourism, research stations and shipping, the legacy of degrading whaling stations and other infrastructure, and ‘chemical’ contaminants. Second, we examine some ‘novel’ pollutants such as radioactive fallout, metals, and plastics. Current environmental and mitigation practices are evaluated, and the impact of climate change on pollutants in Antarctica is highlighted.