Page 12 - Polar

antarctic
The International Association of Antarctica
Tour Operators (IAATO) was formed in 1991
to promote environmentally responsible
travel to Antarctica. World Expedition’s Antarctica operation is a founding member of IAATO, adhering to set guidelines to protect wildlife and the environment. Here are some key points from the comprehensive guidelines for you to consider when in Antarctica:
∫ When in the vicinity of wildlife, walk slowly and carefully, keep noise to a minimum, and maintain an appropriate separation distance.
∫ Observe wildlife behaviour. If wildlife changes its behaviour stop moving, or slowly increase your distance.
∫ Animals are particularly sensitive to disturbance when they are breeding (including nesting) or moulting. Stay outside the margins of a colony and observe from a distance.
∫ Always give animals the right of way and do not block their access routes to the sea.
∫ Do not feed wildlife or leave food or scraps lying around.
∫ Vegetation, including mosses and lichens, is fragile and very slow growing. Do not damage the vegetation by walking, driving or landing on any moss beds or lichen covered rocks.
∫ When travelling on foot, stay on established tracks whenever possible to minimize disturbance or damage to the soil and vegetated surfaces. Where a track does not exist, take the most direct route and avoid vegetation, fragile terrain, scree slopes, and wildlife.
∫ Do not introduce any plants or animals into the Antarctic.
∫ In order to prevent the introduction of non native species and disease, carefully wash boots and clean all equipment including clothes, bags, tripods, tents and walking sticks before bringing them to Antarctica. Pay particular attention to boot treads, velcro fastenings and pockets which could contain soil or seeds.
arctic
The Association of Arctic Expeditions Cruise
Operators (AECO) is an international organisation for expedition cruise operators. Our Arctic operation is a member of AECO and complies with its environmental guidelines and regulations.
As members we agree that expeditions cruises and tourism must be carried out with the utmost consideration for the fragile, natural environment, local cultures and cultural remains. AECO guidelines are taken into consideration during the stages of tour planning, preparation and operation.
When visiting continents rich in wildlife and with fragile and pristine environments, travelling responsibly is essential if we are to preserve them for future generations. We make a concerted effort to minimise our impact on the environment and the wildlife in the polar regions.
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12 Gentoo Penguin, Antarctica | Alex Cearns [Houndstooth Studio]