Environmentally Aware in Reykjavík

PROJECT: The Environmentally Aware learning camp will allow you to learn and exchange about global & local environmental issues through theory and practice. If you are concerned, for example, about climate change, waste management, animal protection, sustainable solutions & other environmental topics then this project is for you. Local Icelandic issues as well as issues from the participants’ countries will be addressed.

The main focus of this camp is to learn about different aspects of environmental issues through a selection of workshops whereby a deeper understanding of issues can be studied and discussed. Topics can include issues like animal farming, food waste, and sustainable practices such as collaborative consumption and veganism.

Volunteers also get the chance to visit local projects focused on the environment, such as a visit to a local recycling centre where a tour of the plant is given and the activities are explained. We will also organise a guided visit to a geothermal power plant, where participants can learn about the utilization of geothermal energy in Iceland and how it can be utilized in a sustainable manner.

SEEDS participants may also get a chance to improve the local environment through hands-on activities. In most cases, the camp includes a day or two of voluntary service but in some cases it will not be possible, as the weather does not always allow activities to take place outdoors.

Please note this project is a learning/sharing camp in which everybody is expected to contribute their own knowledge and experience, and not a standard workcamp.

The over 2 million visitors coming to Iceland every year leave a mark on the country. This camp will help you to be an environmentally aware traveller & consumer.

ACCOMMODATION: SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavík. The facilities are basic with a shower, washing machine, kitchen and everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. We will sleep in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

We will receive food supplies and the group will be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food and/or drinks from your home country for the international dinner.

LOCATION: Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources such as geothermal power and glacial rivers. About two thirds of the population of Iceland live in Reykjavik including the metropolitan area, or over 200,000 people.

The world’s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavík is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides.

Reykjavik is often called “the nightlife capital of the north”, but there is more than pubs and clubs. Reykjavík also gathers the most interesting aspects of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicates new global trends. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene surrounded with beautiful nature. In the area within 100km of Reykjavík, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastlines, geothermal parks, lakes, mountains and many more.

LANGUAGE: English will be the language used in the camp; basic conversational skills are needed.

TERMINAL: Closest international airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 250 (Euros). Please note that these fees are to be paid to SEEDS on arrival in either Euros or Icelandic krónas.

Meeting time will be 18:00 (6:00 pm) on October 16 at SEEDS Office. Participants that cannot arrive on time (later or delayed flights) will be sent information on how to reach the camp.

Excursions (Golden Circle, South Shore, Snaefellsnes or Reykjanes) can be arranged at discount fares for SEEDS participants. Weather in Iceland is unpredictable and it can be cold or rainy. Please bring warm clothes, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats as part of the project takes place outside.

We also offer typical local leisure activities such as the swimming pool, cinema and the flea market.

Age: 18+