Antarctica at risk? The cost of tourism across the two Poles
Description
Tourism in Antarctica and the Arctic is growing rapidly, but at what cost?
Antarctica and the Arctic are changing. Rising temperatures are reshaping polar landscapes, ecosystems and global climate systems, while retreating ice is making these regions more accessible than ever before.
In the 2023–24 season alone, more than 125,000 tourists travelled south to Antarctica, with numbers expected to continue rising as cruise tourism expands. As human presence grows, urgent questions emerge about limits, regulation and responsibility in some of the world’s most fragile environments. Can tourism ever sit comfortably alongside conservation, science and global responsibility?
Join Associate Professor Julia Olsen and Doctor Hanne Nielsen for an Island of Ideas conversation, facilitated by Professor Elizabeth Leane, that explores polar tourism across both the Arctic and Antarctic to discover what the future may hold for these extraordinary places.
Ideas worth sharing about issues that matter
Island of Ideas invites all Tasmanians to join our series of free public talks designed to ignite conversation and curiosity across our community. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the program brings together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders and community voices to discuss the issues that matter.
Stay connected by subscribing to our mailing list for updates or visit Island of Ideas to watch past talks and register for upcoming events.
The Experts
Associate Professor Julia Olsen, Nord University, Bodø, Norway
Associate Professor Julia Olsen (Nord University), is a visiting scholar and an environmental sociologist whose research focuses on polar governance, shipping and cruise tourism. Drawing on Arctic case studies, her work examines how tourism and vessel traffic are regulated in icy environments and where policy and industry frameworks struggle to keep pace with rapid change.
Doctor Hanne Nielsen, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania
Doctor Hanne Nielsen (Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania) brings expertise in Antarctic law, governance and culture. Her research explores how Antarctica is represented and branded through tourism and media, and how these narratives shape public expectations, ethical debates and policy decisions.
Facilitated by Professor Elizabeth Leane, Professor of Antarctic Studies, School of Humanities, College of Arts, Law and Education, University of Tasmania
Professor Elizabeth Leane (University of Tasmania) is an Antarctic studies scholar whose research examines how Antarctica is represented in literature, media and public culture. With a background in physics and literary studies, she explores how stories about the polar regions shape public attitudes, national imaginaries and policy debates. Her recent work focuses on polar tourism, Antarctic gateway cities, and the creative arts as a means of connecting people to Antarctica. She currently leads the ARC-fund project 'Creative Antarctica: Australian Artists and Writers in the Far South'.
Event Schedule
- 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Complimentary refreshments available on arrival
Arrive early and enjoy complimentary refreshments before the talk commences. There is free parking, including accessible spaces, available at the venue. Please bring a copy of your printed or electronic ticket to scan on arrival.
- 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Island of Ideas talk
Seating is first come, first served. The event will be live streamed and recorded.
- 7:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Moderated audience Q&A
You are invited to participate in a Q&A directly following the talk.
FAQs
- I can no longer attend in person, can I attend online?
Island of Ideas talks are available to attend either in person or online!
If you would prefer to watch the event live online via Zoom, please register here.
Alternatively, a YouTube livestream will also be available (Q&A is available only through Zoom).
- How can I find out more about Island of ideas events?
Want to learn more about the University of Tasmania's Island of Ideas public talks series?
Catch-up on past events, register for upcoming talks or get in touch with us via our Island of Ideas webpage or subscribe to our mailing list for Island of Ideas updates.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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