This article summarises the history of human activity on Deception Island and its impact on the environment, and details various attempts to manage current and expected activity levels. In particular, the application of the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty is detailed. Although scientific activities on Deception Island today are minimal, sea-based tourist visitation is increasing at a great rate. Strategic management of this Antarctic island must be a priority if environmental impacts are to be successfully minimised as per the intention of the Madrid Protocol's Article 3. Though the tourism industry is becoming increasingly regulated through the application of the ATS and other initiatives, the potential for greater than minimal or transitory environmental impacts remains and with it the need for response planning. These issues are currently under consideration by the Committee for Environmental Protection and due for discussion at the next Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in Baltimore, United States, in 2009.