Dynamic natural events and human activities in the Polar Regions are having a significant combined impact on these fragile environments. Partly responsible for these changes and impacts is an increase in tourism, which is now one of the principal human activities in the Polar Regions. This publication outlines the key features of the Polar Region environment and describes tourism's multiple roles and impacts in both the Arctic and Antarctica. The publication proposes an agenda for sustainable tourism development, and outlines principles, guidelines and selected good practices to conserve these unique wilderness areas through regulation and management.