Iceland is a country that has seen a tremendous increase in tourism over the past few years. This small island nation has become a popular destination for travelers looking to experience its unique landscapes, natural wonders, and vibrant culture.
However, with this influx of visitors, there has been growing concern about the impact of tourism on Iceland’s environment and local communities. In this article, we will explore the question – Is tourism bad for Iceland?
Positive impacts of tourism in Iceland
Firstly, let’s examine the positive impacts of tourism in Iceland. Tourism has undoubtedly brought economic benefits to the country.
It has created new job opportunities for locals and contributed to the growth of small businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. According to a report by Visit Iceland, tourism accounted for 42% of Iceland’s total export revenue in 2019.
Moreover, tourism has put Iceland on the world map and fostered cultural exchange between locals and visitors. It has enabled people from different parts of the world to learn about Icelandic history, traditions, and language.
Negative impacts of tourism in Iceland
However, as with any industry that experiences rapid growth, there are also negative impacts associated with tourism in Iceland.
One major concern is the environmental impact. The increase in tourists has led to overcrowding at popular tourist attractions such as geysers, waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss which have caused damage to these fragile ecosystems. According to a study by Icelandic Environment Association (Landvernd), around 42% of tourists admitted that they didn’t stay on designated paths while visiting natural attractions.
Additionally, the increase in air travel associated with tourism has resulted in higher greenhouse gas emissions which contribute to climate change. Although Iceland is known for its renewable energy sources such as geothermal power plants and hydroelectricity facilities which have helped reduce its carbon footprint but it doesn’t negate the impact of air travel.
Another issue is the pressure on infrastructure and resources. The small population of Iceland, which is around 364,000, is not equipped to handle the surge in visitors. This has led to increased demand for resources such as water and electricity, which can be detrimental to the environment.
Sustainable tourism in Iceland
To address these concerns, many organizations and businesses are taking steps towards sustainable tourism practices. The Icelandic Tourist Board has launched a campaign called “The Icelandic Pledge”, which encourages visitors to be responsible travelers and respect the environment and local culture.
Moreover, some tour operators have started offering eco-friendly tours that prioritize sustainability over profit. For example, some companies offer tours that use electric-powered vehicles instead of gas-guzzling buses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tourism has had both positive and negative impacts on Iceland. While it has brought economic benefits and cultural exchange, it has also put pressure on the country’s fragile ecosystems and resources.
Therefore, it is crucial to promote sustainable tourism practices that prioritize environmental protection and respect for local communities. By doing so, we can ensure that Iceland remains a unique destination for future generations to enjoy.