From the days of the first settlers, Iceland suffered arguably the most dramatic levels of deforestation in recent history. Geological exploration has revealed samples of trees which has led the scientific community to believe that 1500 years ago over 40% of the country was covered in trees. However, because of the unstable logging from early settlers and a change in climatic conditions this number is said to have reached 1.9% in the year 2018.
Project Yggdrasil arboretum and genetic tree research centre has resulted in the research and growth of new tree species in its world renowned buildings. Situated in Hljómskálagarður Park – in the heart of Reykjavik – Yggdrasil is at the forefront of Iceland’s aim to reforest the country and protect boreal forests around the world.
A century ago, most Icelanders had never even seen a tree, planting trees was the harmless hobby of a few eccentrics. Today, thanks to Project Yggdrasil, forestry for timber production, land reclamation and amenity is being carried out by