Iceland is often perceived as a largely treeless land, a landscape dominated by volcanic rock formations, glaciers, and open expanses. This visual reality prompts many to question why such a seemingly barren environment exists. The current landscape, however, is a result of a complex interplay between historical human activity and challenging natural conditions, rather than an inherent inability for trees to grow.
The Vanishing Forests: A Historical Perspective
Upon the arrival of Norse settlers around the 9th century, Iceland was not the treeless land it largely is today; birch forests and willow scrub covered a significant portion, estimated between 25% and 40% of the land. These early inhabitants, primarily Vikings, began to clear the extensive woodlands to create pastures for grazing livestock, particularly sheep, and to cultivate land for farming. Timber was also a necessity, used for constructing homes, building ships, and as a crucial fuel source for heating and charcoal production, which was vital for smelting iron.
The rapid and widespread deforestation occurred over centuries, transforming the island’s forested areas into open land. By the mid-20th century, the original forest cover had dwindled to less than 1% of the total land area. The grazing activities of sheep further hindered the natural regeneration of birchwoods, as the animals consumed young saplings, preventing new growth from establishing itself.
Nature’s Role: Climate, Soil, and Volcanic Activity
Beyond human impact, Iceland’s natural environment presents significant challenges for tree growth and forest regeneration. The island experiences a harsh climate characterized by strong winds that can stunt tree development and cold temperatures that limit the growing season.
Iceland’s geological activity also plays a substantial role, with volcanic eruptions shaping the land and its soil composition. The bedrock is primarily basalt, and much of the dryland soil consists of tephraloess, derived from volcanic ash. While volcanic ash can sometimes enrich soil with nutrients and improve water retention, it often results in thin, nutrient-poor, and highly erodible soil. Areas of the country are covered by active sandy deserts composed of volcanic materials, which are exceptionally vulnerable to wind erosion, especially without protective vegetation.
The Uphill Battle of Replanting
Despite the historical deforestation and challenging natural conditions, significant efforts are underway to reforest Iceland, although it remains an uphill battle. Soil erosion, exacerbated by the lack of tree cover, is a major problem that requires extensive preparation before planting.
The slow growth rate of trees in Iceland’s climate further complicates reforestation efforts. Strong winds and the ongoing presence of grazing animals, particularly sheep, necessitate protective measures for young trees, such as fencing. Selecting suitable tree species is also crucial; while native species like downy birch are pioneers, non-native conifers such as Sitka spruce, lodgepole pine, and larch have been introduced due to their ability to withstand the harsh conditions and grow more productively.
Iceland’s Green Future
A concerted movement is underway to restore Iceland’s forests. The Icelandic Forest Service and various environmental organizations are actively engaged in reforestation programs across the country. These efforts involve planting millions of seedlings annually, with a long-term vision to significantly increase the forest cover.
The primary species being planted include native downy birch, rowan, and aspen, alongside introduced conifers like Siberian larch, Sitka spruce, and lodgepole pine. The aim is to increase the country’s forest cover from its current approximate 2% to 5% within the next 50 years, or even 12% by 2100. Reforestation offers multiple environmental benefits, including combating soil erosion, sequestering carbon to mitigate climate change, and enhancing biodiversity by creating new habitats. A warming climate is even beginning to aid these efforts by potentially increasing the viable areas and growth rates for trees.