The regulation of the use of land-based facilities for tourism in Antarctica: the case of Fildes Peninsula at King George Island

Human uses in Antarctica are intensifying and diversifying. Around 10,000 scientists and 122,000 tourists visited Antarctica during the 2023–2024 season. In the South Shetland Islands, research and tourism operations are concentrated in areas where most facilities are located. Both types of operations are strongly intertwined, frequently relying on the same infrastructure and facilities. King George Island (KGI) has become an essential hub for air-cruise operations, as the airstrip ‘Teniente R. Marsh’ facilitates tourists’ and researchers’ access to the Antarctic Peninsula region. Logistical support and infrastructure have expanded significantly in recent years to accommodate the growing number of tourists, thereby creating increased pressure on local ecosystems. This paper explores the current use and regulation of land-based facilities for tourism operations on KGI and the legal aspects of these activities. From a legal perspective, due to the unresolved issue of territorial sovereignty in Antarctica, questions arise regarding States’ rights and obligations to exercise jurisdiction or control over their research stations and infrastructure, as well as the legal basis for such authority in light of Antarctica’s unique status under international law. We expect that this case study could spark a broader debate among the scientific community, managers, and policy-makers as to whether the development and regulation of land-based tourism facilities in Antarctica require further regulation.