Clean Energy and Green Living Perched on the rift between North America and Europe, Iceland is a constantly changing land of fire and ice, where molten lava has shaped the landscape and fueled the nation. It is an ideal place to explore the forces of nature – from cascading waterfalls to rising geysers, destructive volcanoes and soaring glaciers. Black sand beaches, crystalline blue waters, verdant oases, and sparkling ice caps dot the landscape. NPR invites you on a behind-the-scenes journey to learn about one of the greenest countries on the planet. Take exclusive tours of Iceland’s hydroelectric and geothermal power plants and learn how the country runs almost entirely on renewable energy. See the innovations that have allowed this island nation to thrive – from greenhouses that extend the limited growing season to a unique bakery that taps steam from beneath the earth. And experience Iceland’s vast open roads, expansive views, and charming villages.
Highlights:
- Explore the powerful and opposing forces that have shaped Iceland’s geology, from breathtaking waterfalls to gushing geysers that spout water over 200 feet into the air to glittering glaciers standing watch over blacksand beaches and rugged volcanic formations.
- Take behind-the-scenes tours of the geothermal and hydroelectric plants that fuel Iceland’s economy, and contribute to its remarkable success as one of the greenest countries on earth.
- Ride a ferry to the seldom-visited Westman Islands, home to the largest puffin colony in the world and site of a devastating volcanic eruption in 1973.
- Sample Icelandic specialties like fresh bread baked by natural geothermal heat and vine-ripened tomatoes grown in a greenhouse to extend the nation’s limited growing season.
- Find out how Iceland has tapped into the energy beneath the earth – and learn about the unique properties that have created the iconic Blue Lagoon.