Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is generally recognized as a useful tool in reducing human impacts on the environment. The Antarctic environment is especially sensitive to harmful perturbation. Regulations introduced under the Antarctic Treaty have provided limited environmental protection. Following proposals from the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research, the XIV Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in October 1987 adopted a Recommendation which suggested guidelines to be used in a formal system of environmental impact assessment for scientific research and associated logistic activities in the Antarctic