Antarctic tourism triggers heavy metal pollution

Research by the University of Santiago, Chile, shows that heavy metal pollutant levels on the Antarctic Peninsula have increased tenfold over the past 40 years, with tourism and scientific activities being the main sources of pollution. Cadmium and lead concentrations in the soil of penguin habitats have risen significantly, potentially affecting the Antarctic ecosystem through the food chain. Researchers warn that with the number of Antarctic tourists growing by an average of 15% annually, heavy metal pollution could threaten the survival of endemic species, including emperor penguins, if regulation is not strengthened.