It is a pleasure to be here today at Afyon Kocatepe University to discuss a topic that is not only central to my work but is of increasing global importance--climate education through geoparks and sustainability initiatives. My name is Arnbjörn Ólafsson, and I am the Managing Director of GeoCamp Iceland, an organization that specializes in immersive, hands-on learning experiences in earth sciences, STEAM education, and sustainability.

At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that education must extend beyond the classroom. Climate change is a complex and urgent challenge, but understanding it requires more than just theoretical knowledge. To truly grasp its impact, students and educators need to see the changes happening in real time, feel the landscapes shifting beneath their feet, and experience the forces shaping our planet firsthand. Iceland, with its unique combination of volcanic activity, glacial retreat, and renewable energy innovation, provides an ideal setting for this kind of experiential learning.

Today, I will discuss how geoparks, and particularly Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, serve as living laboratories for climate education. We will explore how Iceland’s geology, climate, and energy systems can offer valuable lessons for sustainability worldwide. I will also introduce the Geoschools Project, an initiative designed to enhance climate education through field-based learning across different European geoparks. Finally, I will share insights into how we can better integrate outdoor education and international collaboration to equip future generations with the tools and knowledge to respond to climate change effectively.

The goal of this talk is not just to highlight the challenges we face, but to show how education can be a powerful driver of action. The more we connect students and professionals to the landscapes, science, and real-world examples of sustainability, the more equipped they will be to drive meaningful change.

Introduction

In a world where climate change presents one of the most significant challenges of our time, education must move beyond textbooks and classrooms. It must be immersive, hands-on, and grounded in real-world experiences. GeoCamp Iceland was founded on this very principle, welcoming students, teachers, and researchers to Iceland to engage in place-based learning focused on geology, earth sciences, renewable energy, STEM, environmental issues, and climate change.

To truly understand the complexity of our changing planet, learners need to see, feel, and experience the forces shaping it. By stepping onto a glacier, witnessing volcanic activity, or exploring geothermal landscapes, students develop a deeper and more personal connection to the processes that define our environment. At GeoCamp Iceland, the approach is centered on integrating geoscience, sustainability, and outdoor education, making climate education more engaging and effective. This philosophy aligns closely with the Geoschools Project, which highlights the essential role of geoparks in climate education and sustainability.

Iceland – The Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland is often described as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” a name that reflects the dramatic forces constantly shaping its landscapes. It is a country where volcanic activity and glaciation coexist, creating one of the most geologically dynamic environments on Earth. This unique setting offers invaluable learning opportunities, allowing educators to demonstrate geological change in real time.

The country sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are continuously drifting apart. This geological activity, combined with Iceland’s position above a magma plume, fuels over 30 active volcanic systems, frequent earthquakes, and an abundance of geothermal energy. Some eruptions, such as the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, have had global consequences, while others, like the recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, remind us that Iceland’s landscape is in a constant state of transformation.

While volcanic activity builds new land, Iceland’s glaciers actively shape the terrain through erosion. These ice masses, covering approximately 11% of the country, are not only geological forces but also vital climate indicators. They preserve thousands of years of atmospheric data within their ice layers, providing crucial records of past climate conditions. However, the reality is stark—since the 19th century, Iceland’s glaciers have lost 16% of their volume. At the current rate, they could disappear within the next 150 years. The loss of these glaciers is not just an environmental issue; it has direct consequences for rising sea levels, shifting ecosystems, and the livelihoods of communities that rely on glacial meltwater.

Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark – A Living Laboratory

GeoCamp Iceland is based in Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, a region that serves as a natural laboratory where geology, sustainability, and climate resilience intersect. Geoparks are not merely sites of geological significance; they are dynamic spaces where education, conservation, and community engagement come together to deepen our understanding of the planet.

Reykjanes Geopark is of particular interest because it sits directly on the boundary between two continents, where the Earth’s crust is actively pulling apart. This makes it an ideal setting for climate and energy education, providing firsthand exposure to volcanic activity, geothermal landscapes, and the forces of plate tectonics. The region also offers a model for sustainable energy, as geothermal power is harnessed directly from the Earth, demonstrating how natural resources can be used responsibly to support a low-carbon future.

Geoparks like Reykjanes help us understand Earth’s dynamic processes, but they also reveal the accelerating impact of climate change. While volcanic activity continuously forms new land, glaciers—historical archives of climate patterns—are disappearing. This contrast highlights the dual forces shaping Iceland today: the natural geological changes that have occurred over millennia and the human-driven disruptions that are unfolding at an unprecedented rate. As glaciers melt and landscapes shift, Iceland serves both as a warning and as a model for how societies can adapt, develop sustainable energy solutions, and build resilience in the face of climate challenges.

The Climate Crisis: A Challenge for All

Climate change is no longer a distant or future problem—it is happening now. Iceland provides a stark case study of both its impact and the potential strategies for mitigation and adaptation. Glacial retreat is occurring at an accelerating pace, contributing to rising sea levels and altering ecosystems. As the weight of ice decreases, the land beneath it rises, which in turn increases seismic and volcanic activity. Climate change is also affecting weather patterns, ocean currents, and biodiversity, causing shifts that extend far beyond Iceland and into the global climate system.

Despite these challenges, Iceland demonstrates how societies can take proactive steps toward climate resilience. The country has shifted almost entirely to renewable energy, invested heavily in climate research, and integrated sustainability into its educational systems. By studying Iceland’s transition, other countries can gain insights into how to navigate the energy transition, reduce carbon emissions, and prepare for the changing environment.

Renewable Energy in Iceland – A Model for the Future

Iceland is a global leader in renewable energy, with nearly 100% of its electricity coming from geothermal and hydropower sources. This transition has allowed the country to drastically reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Today, 90% of homes in Iceland are heated using geothermal energy, and only 14% of the nation’s total energy use comes from fossil fuels, primarily for transportation and the fishing fleet. To address this remaining dependency, Iceland is now investing in hydrogen fuel technology, electric transport systems, and sustainable aviation fuels, with the goal of becoming entirely energy self-sufficient.

While Iceland’s energy model may not be directly replicable in all regions, it serves as a powerful example of how large-scale transitions to sustainability are achievable when governments, industries, and educators work together. The success of this model demonstrates that a commitment to renewable energy and climate-conscious policies can pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Geoschools: Climate Education in Action

One of the greatest barriers to tackling climate change is the gap between knowledge and action. This is where climate education plays a critical role. The Geoschools project seeks to bridge this gap by moving learning beyond the classroom and into real-world settings. Through field-based education, students gain a direct understanding of climate change by tracking glacial retreat, participating in citizen science projects, and exploring the cultural and ecological impacts of environmental change.

A powerful example of this type of education is the story of Okjökull, Iceland’s first glacier to be declared dead due to climate change. In 2019, a plaque was placed at the site, bearing a message that serves as a warning and a call to action:

“We know what is happening. We know what must be done. Only you will know if we did it.”

This poignant reminder underscores the urgency of climate education and the responsibility we all share in shaping the future.

The Path Forward – What Can We Do?

The question is no longer whether we can address climate change, but how quickly and effectively we are willing to act. Everyone has a role to play in reducing waste, using resources wisely, and promoting responsible tourism. Climate education must remain at the forefront of this movement, ensuring that young people are equipped with the knowledge and tools to become active participants in sustainability efforts.

Through initiatives like Geoschools, UNESCO Geoparks, and place-based education programs, we can empower the next generation to move beyond awareness and toward meaningful action. As the saying goes, “No one can change everything, but everyone can do something.”

A Call to Action

We stand at a defining moment. Climate change is accelerating, but so is our ability to respond. The choices we make today will shape the landscapes, communities, and opportunities of tomorrow. Education must go beyond simply imparting knowledge—it must inspire, challenge, and equip people with the tools to create change.

As educators and professionals, we must ask ourselves: If education holds the key to change, how do we unlock its full potential? At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe the answer lies in how we teach, how we inspire, and how we connect knowledge to action. By using outdoor education, school initiatives, and projects like Geoschools, we can ensure that learning is not just about studying the past—it is about shaping the future.

Thank You

Arnbjörn Ólafsson, GeoCamp Iceland
Geoschools Project – Final Conference,
11th March 2025, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey

Download Presentation Slides [PDF]

Staff and board members of GeoCamp Iceland took part in the final meeting of the Erasmus+ Geoschools Project in Afyon, Turkey on 11 - 13 March 2025. The meeting brought together educators and geoscientists from Iceland, Poland, Romania, and Turkey. Over the course of three days, participants reflected on the project’s impact, shared best practices, and explored how outdoor education—especially through geoparks and place-based learning—can help inspire climate action in schools.

​At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that education should be immersive, hands-on, and deeply connected to the natural world. This philosophy was at the heart of our involvement in the Geoschools Project, where we worked alongside international partners to create new educational tools, lesson plans, and field-based learning experiences that integrate geoscience with sustainability and climate awareness.

Moving Learning Beyond the Classroom

The Geoschools Project was developed to address one of the biggest challenges in climate education—the disconnect between knowledge and action. Too often, climate change is taught in isolation, as abstract theories in a classroom. But as we see in Iceland, climate change is a real, observable phenomenon, shaping the landscapes around us. From the retreating glaciers to active volcanic eruptions, Iceland serves as a living laboratory where students can witness environmental changes firsthand.

Our work within Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark has shown that when students experience science in action, they not only understand the concepts more deeply but also feel empowered to make a difference. Through the Geoschools Project, we applied this same philosophy on a broader scale, working with partners to create field-based educational experiences that can be replicated in geoparks and natural areas across Europe.

A Collaborative Effort for Geoscience Education

The final meeting in Afyon was an opportunity to assess the project’s achievements and discuss its long-term impact. The event began with a conference on innovative teaching methods for climate change, hosted at Afyon Kocatepe University. Here, we presented our experiences from Iceland, showcasing how geoparks can serve as powerful educational environments.

Throughout the conference, the project partners shared their experiences of using geoparks, geological formations, and local landscapes as outdoor classrooms. In his keynote presentation, Arnbjörn Ólafsson, Managing Director of GeoCamp Iceland, emphasized the need for place-based learningin climate education. He highlighted how outdoor experiences—whether studying volcanic activity, analyzing rock formations, or visiting renewable energy sites—allow students to connect science with real-world challenges. Drawing on Iceland’s sustainable energy model, he demonstrated how education can help young people understand both the problems of climate change and the solutions that exist today.

Exploring Kula Geopark: A Model for Outdoor Learning

The second day of the meeting took participants to Kula Salihli UNESCO Global Geopark, a stunning natural site known for its volcanic landscapes, basaltic columns, and rich geological diversity. This excursion was a reminder of why geoparks are ideal environments for teaching Earth sciences.

During a guided walking tour, participants explored Kula’s famous Fairy Chimneys, learning how these rock formations were shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. The visit reinforced the project’s central idea, to encourage teachers to collaborate with local natural sites—whether geoparks, nature reserves, or heritage sites—to create meaningful, real-world learning experiences. As seen in Turkey, these collaborations not only enrich science education but also foster a sense of environmental responsibility among students.

A Lasting Impact on Climate Education

As we wrap up the Geoschools project, there is a shared understanding that while this was the final project meeting, it was just the beginning of a much larger effort to redefine how climate education is taught in schools.

At GeoCamp Iceland, we remain committed to empowering educators with the tools they need to bring science to life. The Geoschools Project has reaffirmed what we have always believed--that the best way to teach about our planet is to experience it firsthand.

We encourage teachers everywhere to look beyond textbooks and classrooms and to embrace the power of outdoor education. Whether through geoparks, nature reserves, or even local green spaces, the opportunities for immersive, hands-on learning are endless.

By integrating geosciences with sustainability and climate action, we can inspire the next generation of environmental leaders, ensuring that students not only understand the science behind climate change but also feel equipped to take action.

As we move forward, we look forward to expanding our network of educators, scientists, and schools that share our vision for a more engaging and impactful approach to climate education.

Because education should not just inform—it should inspire.

GeoCamp Iceland organised a workshop on 20 February 2025 with representatives from all youth councils in the Reykjanes region as part of the Erasmus+ funded AURORA Project. Around 25 young people gathered for a dynamic workshop encourraging participants to reflect on the role of outdoor learning in their education and personal development.

Through engaging group discussions, the youth explored key questions from the AURORA project guidebook, sharing their perspectives on how learning outside the classroom impacts their connection to nature, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. They highlighted memorable outdoor learning experiences, from fjord excursions to wildlife observation, and discussed the advantages of learning in natural settings compared to traditional indoor education. Participants emphasised the benefits of fresh air, physical activity, and hands-on learning in making education more engaging and meaningful.

While the enthusiasm for outdoor learning was evident, the discussion also addressed barriers, such as unpredictable weather and limited infrastructure for structured outdoor education. However, the young participants agreed that these challenges could be overcome with proper planning, better facilities, and a shift in mindset, viewing the outdoors as an extension of the classroom rather than an occasional learning space.

Technology’s role in outdoor education was another topic of debate. While digital tools can enhance learning - such as using apps to identify plants and wildlife - there was a consensus that excessive screen time can distract from the immersive experience of being in nature. The importance of balancing technology with direct engagement in the environment was a recurring theme.

The workshop concluded with a strong message from the youth. They are eager for more opportunities to learn outdoors. They called for outdoor education to be integrated into school schedules more regularly and for decision-makers to prioritise the development of outdoor learning spaces. Their enthusiasm and advocacy reflect a broader shift towards education that is active, experiential, and deeply connected to the natural world.

The insights gathered during this session will contribute to the ongoing work of the AURORA project, helping shape strategies for promoting outdoor learning among young people.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore how outdoor education can empower youth and foster a stronger connection to the environment.

As summer approaches, GeoCamp Iceland is gearing up for our most exciting season yet. The year is set to become a milestone for our field-based learning programs with a number of new partner institutions joining us for the first time, including University of Maine, Exeter Academy and Brooklyn College, as well as returning groups eager to revisit Iceland’s dynamic landscapes once again.

A Growing Global Community

This summer, students and educators from universities, colleges, and high schools across North America and Europe will embark on immersive learning experiences with us. Their participation underscores the growing interest in Iceland as a premier destination for outdoor education in Earth sciences, sustainability, climate change and STEAM subjects.

Why Iceland? Why Now?

Iceland’s ever-changing geological features, from active volcanoes to retreating glaciers, provide an unparalleled real-world classroom. With climate change at the forefront of global discussions, students will have the opportunity to witness and study its effects firsthand while learning about Iceland’s pioneering efforts in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. Our hands-on programs encourage critical thinking and problem-solving, fostering a deep understanding of these pressing global issues.

This summer’s study tours will feature a diverse range of academic focuses, including:

• Geology & Volcanology: Exploring Iceland’s unique position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, recent volcanic eruptions, and geothermal landscapes.
• Climate Change & Glaciology: Investigating Iceland’s rapidly changing glaciers, their role in the global climate system, and how Icelandic landscapes are shaped by environmental forces.
• Renewable Energy & Sustainability: Examining Iceland’s innovative use of geothermal and hydroelectric power, with visits to energy plants and sustainable communities.
• Cultural & Human Geography: Understanding how Iceland’s history, culture, and geography interact, including visits to historical sites, fishing villages, and UNESCO-listed locations.
• Integrative Health & Wellness: Exploring Iceland’s geothermal pools, sustainability in health tourism, and the intersection of nature and well-being in a Nordic context.

Each program is tailored to the needs of our partner institutions, ensuring a customized and impactful learning experience.

Looking Ahead

With more students than ever engaging in field-based learning with GeoCamp Iceland, we are excited to expand our impact and continue fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. If your institution is interested in joining us for a future program, we’d love to hear from you.

Follow along on our social media channels and website for updates and highlights from this incredible summer ahead. Here’s to an unforgettable season of exploration, discovery, and learning in Iceland.

Nordplus Preparatory Meeting in Iceland: Laying the Foundation for ‘Ripples of Knowledge’

From 15–17 January 2025, representatives from four partner institutions gathered in Iceland for a Nordplus Junior preparatory visit, setting the stage for an exciting new project focusing on outdoor education and STREAM-based learning. Hosted by GeoCamp Iceland, the meeting brought together educators from Alytus Piliakalnis Progymnasium (Lithuania), Palsmane Elementary School (Latvia), and Lasnamäe Vene Gümnaasium (Estonia), all united by the common goal to enhance students’ engagement with the environment through hands-on, field-based learning.

Day 1: Exploring Challenges and Opportunities in Outdoor Education

The first day introduced the partners to each other and their respective institutions, with discussions centred around their approaches to outdoor education and the integration of STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) subjects. Each school presented its experiences, methodologies, and the challenges they face in implementing outdoor and place-based educationwithin their curricula.

A key focus of the discussions was the challenges and opportunities in outdoor education—including the logistics of field-based learning, teacher training, and how to make outdoor lessons accessible year-round in different climates. Iceland’s unique landscape provided an ideal setting for this discussion, as GeoCamp Iceland showcased how the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark serves as an open-air classroom for teaching natural sciences, sustainability, and geoscience.

The day also featured a short excursion to key geological sites in Reykjanes, where the group discussed the potential of outdoor education in strengthening students’ scientific literacy, problem-solving skills, and engagement with real-world environmental challenges.

Day 2: Drafting the ‘Ripples of Knowledge’ Project Proposal

Building on the insights gained during the first day, the second day was dedicated to formulating ideas and structuring a Nordplus Junior application. The partners worked collaboratively to develop the concept for a project that will focus on leveraging outdoor education in close proximity to primary schools.

Titled ‘Ripples of Knowledge: STREAM-Based Outdoor Education for a Greener Tomorrow’, the project will aim to:
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• Develop and implement STREAM lesson plans that can be carried out within close proximity of school buildings, making outdoor learning more accessible and practical for teachers.
• Encourage students to engage with their local environments, using nature as a learning space to enhance understanding of sustainability, biodiversity, and climate action.
• Promote interdisciplinary teaching methodologies, integrating digital tools, creative learning strategies, and environmental problem-solving.
• Strengthen Nordic-Baltic collaboration in education, fostering the exchange of best practices in outdoor learning and sustainability education.

Partners outlined the project’s key activities, including field visits, teacher training workshops, and student exchanges to share and test newly developed outdoor learning materials. The session concluded with a review of administrative and financial requirements for the proposal.

Day 3: Site Visits and Excursions in Iceland

The final day provided further inspiration through a series of site visits and excursions in Iceland, reinforcing how outdoor education can be effectively integrated into the curriculum, inspiring ideas for the implementation of the ‘Ripples of Knowledge’ project in each partner country.

The preparatory meeting successfully laid the groundwork for the Nordplus Junior application, strengthening the partnership between the institutions and ensuring that outdoor education remains at the heart of innovative learning in the Nordic-Baltic region. With a shared commitment to engaging students with their local environments, the partners are now ready to take the next steps in bringing ‘Ripples of Knowledge’ to life.

We are thrilled to welcome a true rock star in STEM and field-based education to our team. Starting on 1 February, Brynja Stefánsdóttir will join GeoCamp Iceland as a part-time project manager, focusing on managing curricula and field guide development.

Brynja is a specialist in science education and outdoor learning, with a strong focus on fostering innovative teaching practices in STEM fields. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in natural sciences and teaching from the University of Iceland (2016), alongside a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in natural sciences teaching (2014). Currently, she is furthering her studies in environmental science at the Agricultural University of Iceland.

Brynja brings extensive teaching experience, including her work as a natural sciences teacher at Stapaskóli primary school in Reykjanesbær. She has developed and led science and technology workshops for students of all ages, including pre-primary education. Her work also encompasses sustainability-focused educational programmes, featuring hands-on projects that highlight the circular economy, waste reduction, and community engagement.

Beyond the classroom, Brynja has contributed to national initiatives aimed at revising competency criteria for science subjects and simplifying teaching frameworks to enhance accessibility for students and educators. She also facilitates creative workshops for adult learners, including individuals with disabilities. Her notable achievements include coordinating Stapaskóli’s “Stapavaka,” a science fair that celebrates students’ use of scientific methods and research.

Brynja’s expertise in curriculum development, outdoor education, and sustainability, combined with her passion for connecting students with nature, makes her a vital addition to the GeoCamp Iceland team. We look forward to working with her in the future on all the exciting projects ahead.

The United Nations has declared 2025 as the "International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation", highlighting the vital role glaciers play in Earth’s ecosystems and their critical importance as indicators of climate change. As glaciers worldwide retreat at an unprecedented rate, this initiative calls for urgent global action to preserve these natural wonders.

The Icelandic glaciers have been an integral part of GeoCamp Iceland’s narrative from the very beginning. By bringing students and teachers to recently formed glacial lagoons, rapidly shrinking glacier tongues, landscapes newly revealed by retreating ice, and the majestic moraines left behind, we provide not just an awe-inspiring experience but also an educational journey. These visits serve as outdoor classrooms where participants connect with the dynamic processes shaping Iceland’s environment, explore the impacts of climate change, and gain a deeper appreciation for the vital role glaciers play in our world.

Iceland’s glaciers are not just geographical marvels; they are reservoirs of history, culture, and ecological significance. Covering approximately 11% of the country’s landmass, glaciers like Vatnajökull and Sólheimajökull have shaped Iceland’s landscapes and its people’s connection to nature. Yet, the rapid retreat of these ice masses underscores the urgent need to address climate change and preserve this integral part of the planet’s cryosphere.

GeoCamp Iceland kemur að þremur verkefnum sem hlutu styrk úr Uppbyggingarsjóði Suðurnesja 2025, en úthlutun úr sjóðnum átti sér stað í Hljómahöll föstudaginn 17. janúar síðastliðinn.
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STEAM Reykjanes: Samstarf atvinnulífs og skóla um færni til framtíðar
GeoCamp Iceland leiðir verkefnið „STEAM Reykjanes“ sem miðar að því að efla menntun í vísindum, tækni, verkfræði, listum og stærðfræði (STEAM) á Suðurnesjum. Verkefnið tengir saman skóla, atvinnulíf og samfélag við þekkingu, umhverfi og náttúruauðlindir svæðisins. Verkefnið felur í sér kortlagningu á samfélagslegum áhrifum STEAM-greina á Suðurnesjum og þarfagreiningu á framtíðarfærni atvinnulífsins, byggt á innviðum og auðlindum svæðisins. Þá verður unnið að þróun tækifæra til eflingar STEAM-náms í skólum og fræðslu fyrir almenning og gesti svæðisins. Megin markmiðið með verkefninu er að vinna að stofnun STEAM-seturs á Reykjanesi, með það að markmiði að tengja saman fjölbreyttar auðlindir, náttúru og samfélag í öflugu samstarfi atvinnulífs, skóla og rannsóknarstofnana.

Gárur á Reykjanesi: Vísindalæsi og útikennsla í Reykjanes jarðvangi
Reykjanes jarðvangur leiðir verkefnið „Gárur á Reykjanesinu: Vísindalæsi og útikennsla í Reykjanes jarðvangi“ sem hefur það markmið að auka áhuga og þekkingu ungs fólks á náttúruvísindum með útikennslu og skapandi fræðsluverkefnum. Verkefnið kortleggur námstækifæri í nærumhverfi grunnskóla á Reykjanesi og safnar þeim í aðgengilegan gagnabanka. Með því að skrásetja náttúrufyrirbæri, áhugaverða staði, sögur og menningartengda staði í nærumhverfi skólanna er stefnt að því að efla tengsl nemenda við umhverfið, auka þekkingu þeirra, virðingu fyrir náttúrunni og stuðla að sjálfbærri nýtingu auðlinda. Verkefnið stuðlar að vísindalæsi og sjálfbærni með því að nýta einstaka jarðfræðilega sérstöðu Reykjanes jarðvangs sem lifandi kennslustofu. Sigrún Svafa Ólafsdóttir, verkefnastjóri GeoCamp Iceland heldur utan um verkefnið fyrir hönd jarðvangsins.

Nærandi ferðaþjónusta í kviku umhverfi: Reykjanesið sem áfangastaður fyrir vísindamiðlun og rannsóknir
Markaðsstofa Reykjaness leiðis verkefnið „Nærandi ferðaþjónusta í kviku umhverfi“ í samstarfi við GeoCamp Iceland, en það gengur út á markaðssetningu og uppbyggingu sérhæfðrar ferðaþjónustu á Reykjanesinu á tímum eldsumbrota, þar sem lögð verður áhersla á nærandi ferðaþjónustu til að auka athygli á svæðinu fyrir alþjóðlega rannsóknar- og fræðsluhópa. Markmið verkefnisins verður að stuðla að nærandi ferðaþjónustu og eflingu svæðisins sem áfangastað jarðfræði-, eldfjalla- og umhverfisrannsókna. Unnið verður að markvissri markaðssetningu á Reykjanesinu sem lifandi áfangastað fyrir fræðslu- og vísindatengda ferðaþjónustu, þar sem alþjóðlegir rannsóknar- og nemendahópar fá aðgang að einstöku umhverfi til náms, rannsókna og þekkingarmiðlunar, og þar með auka sýnileika svæðisins í alþjóðlegu vísindasamfélagi.
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Uppbyggingarsjóður Suðurnesja er samkeppnissjóður sem hefur það verkefni að styðja við verkefni sem falla að Sóknaráætlun Suðurnesja á sviði menningar, atvinnu og nýsköpunar. Samband sveitarfélaga á Suðurnesjum (SSS) annast umsýslu sjóðsins og er auglýst eftir styrkumsóknum einu sinni á ári.

This December, GeoCamp Iceland had the opportunity to participate in the American Geophysical Union (AGU) Fall Meeting 2024 in Washington DC, the largest gathering of Earth and space scientists in the world. With over 25,000 attendees, the conference served as an inspiring platform for scientists, educators, and innovators to connect, collaborate, and share groundbreaking research.

For GeoCamp Iceland, this was a milestone moment—our fifth time exhibiting at AGU and undoubtedly our most successful to date. Over the course of the event, our booth became a hub for enthusiastic conversations about Iceland’s unique role as a natural laboratory for geosciences, sustainability, and energy education.

Unprecedented Interest in Iceland

We were thrilled to see an unprecedented number of visitors at our booth this year. Attendees from universities, high schools, and alumni groups expressed keen interest in bringing their students and faculty to Iceland to experience GeoCamp’s educational programs. By the end of the conference, all 400 of our informational pamphlets were distributed, along with numerous maps, postcards, and books showcasing the wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula and beyond.

Building New Partnerships

During AGU, we had the pleasure of meeting dozens of university representatives eager to explore collaboration opportunities. From tailored study tours for student groups to workshops on sustainability and Earth sciences, the discussions underscored the growing demand for hands-on, place-based learning experiences.

We are especially excited about the connections we established with institutions interested in integrating Iceland into their curricula. These collaborations will not only enrich the academic experiences of participants but also promote greater understanding of our planet’s dynamic processes and the importance of sustainable living.

Looking Ahead

GeoCamp Iceland’s participation at AGU 2024 was a good reminder of the global community’s shared commitment to education, research, and environmental stewardship. As we look to 2025, we are inspired to expand our reach, enhance our programs, and welcome even more groups to Iceland’s unparalleled outdoor classroom.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who visited us at AGU 2024, shared their ideas, and showed interest in working with us. If you’re curious about our programs or would like to explore bringing a group to Iceland, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Together, let’s continue to inspire the next generation of scientists, educators, and changemakers.

Contact Us

Interested in learning more about GeoCamp Iceland? Email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!

The year 2024 marked a period of growth and impactful achievements for GeoCamp Iceland. As an educational institution and tour operator, we expanded our outreach and strengthened our commitment to experiential learning, sustainability, and international collaboration.

Among the year’s highlights was the signing of a new two-year cooperation agreement with Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark and the Association of Municipalities in Suðurnes. This partnership aims to enhance educational initiatives, strengthen ties with schools, and utilise the unique geosites of the Reykjanes Peninsula for STEM and outdoor education. Notably, we spearheaded teacher training trips to Denmark, funded by Erasmus+, which laid the foundation for a regional STEM teacher network.

GeoCamp Iceland welcomed nearly 400 students, teachers, and professors from high schools, colleges, and universities worldwide. Our customised study tours focused on geology, renewable energy, and climate education, with participants from institutions such as the University of Southern Maine, Northern Virginia Community College, and Chaparral High School. This represented a 50% increase in activities compared to the previous year.

We continued our involvement in international projects, including Green Advisor, Geoschools, and AURORA, while concluding six major initiatives like HEDA, Upcycling, and STEM in Croatian schools. These projects highlighted our dedication to developing educational content, fostering sustainability, and supporting innovative teaching practices.

Our marketing and dissemination efforts also expanded, with the launch of a LinkedIn profile, a revamped information pamphlet, and active participation in high-profile events such as Mannamót 2024, the NCGE Conference in Phoenix, and the AGU Annual Meeting in Washington, DC. These efforts have enhanced GeoCamp Iceland’s visibility and strengthened our role as a key player in educational tourism and international collaboration.

As we look to 2025, GeoCamp Iceland remains committed to connecting students, educators, and communities with Iceland’s unique landscapes and natural resources, fostering a deeper understanding of Earth sciences, sustainability, and global challenges.
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We would like to thank all our partners and friend in Iceland, as well as around the world for making this a memorable and fruitful year. As the vikings said: 

We value your gifts and food.
​But most of all, we value your friendship.

Sigrún Svafa, Magdalena, Óli Jón & Arnbjörn

Download GeoCamp Iceland 2024 Annual Report [PDF]