Wilderness Protection in Polar Regions

Antarctica's wilderness values, even though specifically recognized by the Environmental Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty, are rarely considered in practice. This deficiency is especially apparent with regard to a more and more increasing human footprint caused, among others, by a growing number of tourists visiting the region and conducting a broad variety of activities. On the basis of a detailed study of three Arctic wilderness areas - the Hammastunturi Wilderness Reserve (Finland), the Archipelago of Svalbard (Norway) and the Denali National Park and Preserve (Alaska, United States) - as well as the relevant policies and legislation in these countries, Antje Neumann identifies numerous 'lessons learnt' that can serve as suggestions for improving the protection of wilderness in Antarctica.