Exploring Renewable Energy in Iceland: A Personal Journey into Sustainable Living

Introduction

In the summer of 2016, just before graduating from the University of Colorado-Boulder, I craved an adventure that would combine my final academic credits with something truly unforgettable. Iceland, with its progressive policies and breathtaking landscapes, called to me. I joined a study abroad program focused on renewable energy, resource economics, and environmental engineering. Little did I know that this experience would profoundly shape my understanding of sustainability.

Why Iceland?

Iceland is a global leader in renewable energy, harnessing its unique geological features to generate nearly 100% of its electricity from renewable sources—primarily geothermal and hydropower. This made it the perfect location to explore the intersection of natural resources and human behavior. During the program, I also tackled the complexities of the Icelandic language, which proved to be both challenging and rewarding.

Life in Iceland

Living in Iceland was like stepping into another world. Traveling around the country with fellow students, we explored rugged landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and quaint towns. The culture was rich and inviting, and the natural environment was both our classroom and our playground. These experiences deepened my connection to the land and influenced my approach to sustainable living.

Capstone Project

For my capstone project, I decided to study human behavior and interaction with natural resources in the Icelandic town of Ísafjörður. Leveraging my previous experience as a data manager for CU-Boulder’s Eco Visits program, I had access to extensive data on how college students in Boulder use energy, water, and other resources. In Ísafjörður, I conducted surveys among homestay families and local residents to gather comparable data. My goal was to understand how the abundance of renewable resources in Iceland influenced everyday consumption behaviors compared to those in Boulder.

Key Findings

The data revealed interesting contrasts. While both communities were conscious of their environmental impact, Icelanders, with their access to abundant renewable energy, displayed different patterns in their resource usage. For example, energy conservation behaviors were less pronounced in Ísafjörður, where geothermal and hydroelectric energy was plentiful and inexpensive. In contrast, Boulder residents, constrained by tighter budgets and higher energy costs, demonstrated more active conservation behaviors, often driven by financial considerations as well as environmental concerns.

Impact on My Perspective

This experience reshaped my understanding of sustainability. It taught me that while renewable energy can reduce the need for strict conservation, it’s still crucial to maintain a balance between resource availability and responsible usage. This insight has informed my career and personal approach to sustainable design and living.

Conclusion

Studying in Iceland was more than an educational experience; it was a transformative journey that blended adventure, learning, and cultural immersion. It underscored the importance of exploring renewable energy and sustainable living practices. For anyone passionate about these topics, I highly recommend seeking out similar opportunities that challenge you to grow, learn, and make a positive impact on the world.