Times Online - debate on tourism in the polar regions

I've just read with interest an article in the Times Online this morning regarding Tourism in Antarctica and the Arctic - and so the debate still rolls on - it appears every now and then and then sinks below the horizon.  With the G8 summit happening at the moment in Germany it's a hot topic.  Ultimately if they can't manage to convince the USA re setting environmental targets then what chance is there of anyone taking responsibility of how we should preserve Antarctica?   Yes, the figures for passengers are creeping up year-on-year - we all know that, but what's being done about it?  Here at Discover the World we're staying true to our word and for those who do want to visit the polar regions we will continue to focus on promoting the smaller vessels (carrying around 50 passengers).  Our voyage operator partners make a difference by providing logistical support to people like the British Antarctic Survey, and are essentially dedicated to providing a fantastic experience for a select few passengers in an environmentally-consicious and educational way.