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]

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.

Highlights from the Outdor Education Conference by Suðurnesjabær and Vogar Municipalities

Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark is uniquely positioned to inspire outdoor education, using its rich landscapes as a dynamic learning environment. This potential was spotlighted during a recent conference, “Outdoor Learning in Education”, organised on 21 November 2024 by the Education and Leisure Departments of Suðurnesjabær and Vogar Municipalities. The event, attended by educators from preschools and primary schools across the municipalities, showcased innovative approaches to outdoor learning.

Unlocking the potential of outdoor learning in geoparks

Sigrún Svafa Ólafsdóttir, Educational Project Manager for Reykjanes Geopark and GeoCamp Iceland, presented a vision for outdoor education that leverages the Geopark’s distinctive features. She introduced “Ripples”, an initiative born from collaboration with local science teachers. This project aims to create a digital idea bank filled with place-based activities tailored to the unique natural and cultural contexts surrounding each school. Accessible to all teachers in the region, this resource seeks to empower educators to bring the Geopark’s landscapes into their lessons, fostering creativity and curiosity.

Sigrún also highlighted how the UNESCO Schools initiative in Reykjanes has laid a foundation for cross-sectoral collaboration among schools, educational levels, and municipalities. Reykjanes Geopark, as a neutral and central coordinator, plays a pivotal role in strengthening these connections and supporting schools in integrating outdoor education into their curriculum.

Learning beyond the classroom

The conference also featured inspiring talks from other educators. Anna Soffía Wahlström, a preschool teacher in Suðurnesjabær, shared examples of outdoor activities with young children, showcasing the diversity of learning experiences possible in natural settings. Dr. Jakob Frímann Þorsteinsson from the University of Iceland explored the broader benefits of outdoor education, emphasising how it allows students to develop different strengths than those nurtured in traditional classroom environments.

Recipient of the 2024 Icelandic Education Award for her innovation in outdoor education Hrafnhildur Sigurðardóttir, from Sjálandsskóli in Garðabær Municipality, shared practical insights from her work in outdoor teaching. She stressed the importance of equipping teachers with the necessary tools and training to succeed outside the classroom, as well as creating a culture of outdoor learning. Her tips included ensuring proper clothing for all participants and using simple incentives, like hot cocoa, to make outdoor activities even more enjoyable.

A natural fit for education

With its breathtaking volcanic landscapes, coastal areas, and rich biodiversity, Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark provides an unparalleled backdrop for outdoor learning. The proximity of schools to nature in Suðurnesjabær and Vogar makes these opportunities exceptionally accessible. As this conference demonstrated, the momentum for outdoor education in the region is growing, driven by innovative ideas, strong collaboration, and a shared vision for using nature as the ultimate classroom.

The conference reinforced the essential role that geoparks like Reykjanes can play in inspiring outdoor education. By integrating local natural and cultural heritage into teaching practices, schools can foster deeper connections between students and their environment, preparing them to become future stewards of our planet. 

Ólafur Jón Arnbjörnsson - or Óli Jón as friends and Icelanders in general call him - founder of GeoCamp Iceland, has spent a lifetime combining his love for education, his hometown of Keflavík, and Iceland’s natural wonders. From growing up in a unique and ever-changing community to pioneering educational projects, Óli's story is one of creativity, adaptability, and a deep commitment to helping others discover Iceland’s treasures.

A Career in Education and Innovation

After years of studying and working abroad, Óli returned to Iceland in 1995 to serve as a headmaster in Keflavík. He led significant transformations in local education, but his drive to do more led him to establish the Icelandic College of Fisheries in Grindavík.

The College began with just a handful of students, offering practical, hands-on education in fisheries and related industries—fields often overlooked in traditional academic settings. Under Óli's leadership, the College expanded, becoming a vital institution in Iceland’s educational landscape.

In recent years, Óli decided to step away from his role as headmaster of the College to focus entirely on his true passion: GeoCamp Iceland. This transition marked a new chapter in his mission to redefine outdoor education and create lasting connections between students and Iceland’s natural environment.

The Birth of GeoCamp Iceland

GeoCamp Iceland was born from Óli's belief in the transformative power of experiential learning. By immersing students in Iceland’s “ultimate classroom,” the initiative offers unique opportunities to study geology, sustainability, and environmental sciences through hands-on exploration.

Looking ahead, Óli envisions GeoCamp as more than just an educational programme—it’s a platform for fostering global collaboration and building a deeper appreciation for the natural world. The camp is expanding its focus, incorporating themes like climate change, renewable energy, and community-based sustainability projects. By partnering with local industries, researchers, and global institutions, GeoCamp aims to inspire innovative solutions to the challenges facing our planet.

Óli's dream is for GeoCamp to become a hub for lifelong learning, where students of all ages and backgrounds can connect with Iceland’s unique environment. Whether it’s a group of university students studying geothermal energy or schoolchildren discovering the wonders of volcanic formations, GeoCamp offers experiences that leave a lasting impression.

A Global Vision

Óli's international collaborations reflect his belief that education is a universal tool for empowerment. Whether he’s working on outdoor education in Europe, promoting STEM initiatives, or advocating for innovative teaching models, his projects all share a common goal: to inspire curiosity and equip learners with the tools to build a sustainable future.

Through GeoCamp Iceland and his international work, Óli continues to create opportunities for young people to engage with education in transformative ways. His leadership has made him not only a local figurehead in Iceland but also a respected voice in global education innovation. Through various international development projects, he has been instrumental in promoting outdoor education as a transformative learning tool. 

Looking Ahead

Óli's story is a testament to how a person’s vision can create meaningful change. From transforming education in Keflavík to establishing GeoCamp Iceland as a gateway to learning, his work has inspired generations to think differently about education, nature, and community.

As GeoCamp Iceland moves forward, Óli Jón remains dedicated to its mission of blending education, sustainability, and the beauty of Iceland. For him, the journey is just beginning, and the future is full of possibilities.

The post is based on an article about Ólafur Jón on Hit Iceland from 2023 (https://www.hiticeland.com/post/olafur-jon-arnbjornsson-from-a-room-with-a-view)

GeoCamp Iceland participates in the European Union’s CE4RT (Circular Economy for Regenerative Tourism) project, an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming tourism SMEs into sustainable and regenerative businesses. As part of a consortium spanning five European countries — Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Poland, and the Netherlands — GeoCamp has focused on incorporating and promoting the principles of sustainability and regenerative tourism in Iceland, particularly within the Reykjanes Peninsula.
 
The CE4RT Project: A Pathway to Regenerative Tourism
 
Launched in January 2023 and running through January 2025, the CE4RT project supports tourism SMEs in adopting circular economy principles, fostering sustainable practices, and tackling climate action. GeoCamp Iceland has been at the forefront of implementing these goals by collaborating with local stakeholders, such as the Iceland Tourism Cluster and Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, to deliver training, coaching, and practical resources to SMEs.
 
In April 2024, GeoCamp took part in the “Leaders & Learners Workshops” in Iceland, a milestone event that showcased innovative local practices in regenerative tourism. This gathering not only highlighted Icelandic SMEs’ efforts but also facilitated knowledge exchange among international participants, reinforcing the collaborative nature of the CE4RT project.
 
As part of the project, GeoCamp Iceland is currently developing a comprehensive sustainability plan, which includes a new educational initiative. Starting next year, visiting groups will participate in sessions on sustainable tourism in Iceland, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of regenerative practices in the region. This aligns with our emphasis on empowering visitors through education while promoting a deeper understanding of Iceland’s natural and cultural heritage.
 
GeoCamp Iceland has prioritised collaboration with small, family-owned businesses and carefully selects partners committed to green practices, which lead the way in sustainable hospitality and outdoor experiences. By working with like-minded partners, we look towards ensuring that our operations actively support local communities and businesses dedicated to sustainability.
 
The Final CE4RT Conference in Ireland
 
The International Regenerative Tourism Conference in Dingle, Ireland, marks the culmination of the CE4RT project. The two-day event, held on 19–20 November 2024, brought together tourism professionals, researchers, policymakers, and SMEs to reflect on the achievements of the project and explore the future of regenerative tourism. The conference highlights key themes such as climate action, community engagement, and circular economy principles. 
 
The International Regenerative Tourism Conference represents not just the conclusion of the CE4RT project but a launching pad for future collaborations and innovations. For GeoCamp Iceland, it is an opportunity to showcase our achievements, exchange ideas, and draw inspiration from international partners to further enrich our contributions to Iceland’s tourism landscape.
 
What are our next steps?
 
GeoCamp Iceland’s involvement in CE4RT reflects our commitment to advancing sustainability, education, and community engagement in tourism. By integrating the lessons learned from CE4RT into our own operations and continuing to advocate regenerative tourism principles, we aim to serve as a model for other regions seeking to balance economic growth with environmental and cultural stewardship.
 
A crucial part of this effort involves working toward achieving the Travelife Partner certification, a significant milestone for tour operators committed to sustainability. While ISO certification remains out of reach for the company at our current size, GeoCamp Iceland has invested in acquiring the necessary resources to work toward our implementation in the future, further embedding sustainable practices into our operations.
 
As part of the CE4RT project, GeoCamp Iceland contributes to advancing the principles of the circular economy in tourism while championing climate action and cultural preservation. Through these efforts, the Reykjanes Peninsula stands as a blueprint for how regenerative tourism can be achieved, with GeoCamp Iceland leading by example in Iceland’s commitment to a sustainable future, ensuring a sustainable and regenerative future for generations to come.

Learn more about CE4RT here: https://ce4rt.euproject.site/