This year GeoCamp Iceland took part in a series of workshops in Denmark for science teachers focusing on STEM subjects and outdoor education in Geoparks. The project was managed by the Association of Municipalities of Suðurnes (SSS) and funded by the Erasmus+ Education Programme of the European Union, and enabled teachers to travel to Denmark on a week-long trip, where they gained ideas on how to use outdoor learning within the Reykjanes Geopark to make science education more engaging and integrate additional STEM projects into their teaching.

“What I am taking home with me are the connections I made with colleagues in the area, which will definitely benefit our work. I came back inspired and excited, and I’m already talking more about science in my classes.” Guðrún Kristín Ragnarsdóttir, Stóru-Vogaskóli in Vogar
 
As part of the study trips, the groups visited schools and educational institutions in Denmark, and gained insight into the educational work within two different geoparks: Odsherred Geopark and Geopark Det Sydfynske Øhav. In addition to learning how teaching can take place in connection with geoparks, the participants gained insight into the role of geoparks in the local community. Odsherred Geopark, for example, is known for its strong collaboration with residents and schools, offering robust outdoor learning and a variety of STEM projects.

“My impression is that students and their families often travel far to experience Iceland and the beauty and wonders our country has to offer. I believe that with targeted education and promotion aimed at families in Reykjanes and the capital area, we could attract more families for day trips around Reykjanes or to specific sites within it.” Haraldur Haraldsson, Akurskóli in Reykjanesbær
 
The first trip took place in March 2024 and began with a visit to the Experimentarium museum in Copenhagen, where teachers tried a wide range of interactive projects designed to spark young people’s curiosity in science. The group then visited the University of Southern Denmark in Odense, where they were introduced to the Natural Science Research Centre (FNUG) and how it supports schools and teachers in implementing STEM teaching practices. The group also visited Geopark Det Sydfynske Øhav and explored their methods for connecting with local residents and schools in southern Funen. The main visit was to Odsherred Geopark, where the park’s geologists explained and demonstrated how they engage students with practical outdoor learning. The trip concluded with the group’s participation in the Big Bang conference in Odense, an annual conference for science, outdoor learning, and STEM teachers in Denmark.

"On the final day, we participated in the Big Bang conference, which featured a large exhibition where companies and institutions showcased their educational materials. There was also a wide variety of presentations and discussion groups to choose from. The conference was the cherry on top; we returned home with our heads and suitcases full of new ideas, teaching methods, and tools that will influence my teaching in the future." Hildur Sigfúsdóttir, Heiðarskóli in Reykjanesbær
 
The second trip took place in August 2024, starting with the group’s participation in the Knowledge Forum at the Suðurnes Knowledge Centre. As before, the main visit was to Odsherred Geopark, where the group received an in-depth introduction to field trips and sites within the geopark suited to outdoor teaching in subjects such as geology, history, and natural science. Near the geopark is Holbæks Grønne Lunge, a green area that is used extensively by schools for science education.

GeoCamp Iceland recently hosted the third transnational meeting (TPM) of the Erasmus+ Green Advisor project, a critical gathering for the project’s partners to advance sustainable practices in project management. The event took place in Iceland from 9-11 October 2024, drawing representatives from DomSpain, APS Polygonal, Gazi University, SmartUp, and Olemisen, who joined local representatives to exchange expertise, test tools, and refine methodologies developed over the past year.

The primary focus of this meeting was to review and improve the project’s core outputs: the self-assessment tool for project managers and the carbon footprint calculator. These tools aim to empower project managers with actionable insights for reducing environmental impact. Each tool underwent rigorous discussion and testing, with Gazi University presenting technical updates and partners providing feedback. Key design elements were finalised, such as an interactive questionnaire for the self-assessment tool, paired with resources like podcast episodes to enhance user engagement. The carbon footprint calculator, designed to track a project’s CO₂ emissions, is set to include innovative features such as QR code tracking for event travel emissions and an option for car-sharing data input, providing users a comprehensive view of their project’s environmental impact.

GeoCamp Iceland, leading the Building Energy Efficiency aspect of the project, showcased Iceland’s sustainable energy practices through a training session at the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant. This hands-on experience demonstrated geothermal energy’s role in Iceland’s sustainability strategy, sparking discussions on renewable energy adaptation for project settings. Other partners contributed similarly practical sessions: DomSpain led a workshop on sustainable travel and transportation trends, Gazi University presented on digital sustainability, SmartUp facilitated activities around zero waste, and Olemisen introduced tools for green procurement, ensuring each session directly aligned with the project’s sustainability goals.

The event also integrated Iceland’s rich natural heritage with excursions to Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and Vík, providing partners a first-hand experience of Iceland’s unique landscapes. Social activities reinforced team cohesion, concluding with a visit to Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths for a relaxing end to the meeting.
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The TPM underscored the project’s progress and the collaborative commitment to sustainable practices, setting a solid foundation for the final meeting scheduled in Reus, Spain, in 2025.