Is Iceland Planting Trees?

Over the years, Iceland has been known for a lack of vegetation and greenery. The harsh climate and volcanic soil have made it difficult for trees to grow in the country. However, in recent times, there has been a push towards reforestation and planting trees in Iceland. But, is Iceland really planting trees?

The History of Deforestation in Iceland

Iceland has a long history of deforestation, dating back to the settlement era over a thousand years ago. The settlers cleared the forests for livestock grazing and timber, leading to the loss of much of the original birch and willow forests in the country. Over the years, the deforestation continued, and by the 20th century, only a little over 1% of the country was forested. This loss of vegetation led to soil erosion and desertification, with large areas of Iceland becoming barren wastelands.

The Growing Importance of Reforestation

Recently, there has been a growing importance placed on reforestation and planting trees in Iceland. The Icelandic government, alongside environmental organizations, has been working to restore and reforest areas of the country that have been destroyed by deforestation. These efforts have been successful in increasing the forested area of the country, with around 7% of the country now covered in trees, and the aim is to increase this to 12-15% in the coming years.

The Benefits of Reforestation in Iceland

The benefits of reforestation in Iceland are numerous. Firstly, trees help to prevent soil erosion and desertification, which is essential in a country as vulnerable to these problems as Iceland. Additionally, trees in Iceland help to improve the biodiversity of the country by providing habitats for wildlife. Trees also absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is essential in the fight against climate change.

The Challenges of Reforestation in Iceland

Despite the growing importance placed on reforestation in Iceland, there are still challenges to overcome. The harsh climate and volcanic soil make it difficult for trees to grow in the country. Additionally, many areas of Iceland have been destroyed by deforestation and misuse, meaning that the soil is unsuitable for tree growth. Furthermore, many Icelanders still view trees as a nuisance and have been known to cut them down, which can undermine the efforts of reforestation programs.

The Future of Reforestation in Iceland

Although there are challenges to overcome, the future of reforestation in Iceland looks bright. The Icelandic government and environmental organizations are committed to increasing the forested area of the country and restoring areas that have been destroyed by deforestation. Additionally, there is a growing appreciation among Icelanders for the importance of trees in the country, which is a positive sign for the success of reforestation programs. With continued efforts, Iceland could become a greener and more sustainable country, providing a more hospitable environment for both its inhabitants and wildlife.