Vincenzo and Paolo's experience in Iceland

We started our journey at the beginning of May and will conclude it at the end of September. This week we just reunited after several workcamps, through which we had the chance to travel across the country and work with different forestry associations under the umbrella of the IFA. Sometimes we were split into two groups of four volunteers each, but often we worked together as one large group.

Over these months, we had the opportunity to support Iceland’s reforestation efforts, land reclamation, and carbon sequestration plans. We were taught the basics of planting methods on Icelandic soil, the different native and non-native tree species, and how to work in respect of the local biodiversity and innovative reforestation plans. We experienced the effects of the changing climate firsthand and worked closely with the island’s complex yet fascinating nature, so different from what we are used to in Italy and continental Europe.

In addition to planting new trees to grow future forests and observing the work of ESC volunteers from previous summers, we maintained existing small forests and built trails and structures for recreational activities in the forests for locals and families. Through the workcamps, we had the opportunity to move and live in different parts of the country—from the south to the northwest, such as the Vesturland region, particularly the Snæfellsnes Peninsula—sleeping in schools equipped for accommodation.

Our base is in Úlfljótsvatn, in the southern region of the island, near Iceland’s largest and most famous scout camp. The nearest town is Selfoss, where we regularly go by car to do grocery shopping and then cook together most of the time. We also had the chance to travel independently to visit the capital, Reykjavík, and many other locations in our free time. This allowed us to meet many people, both locals and other young volunteers participating in different ESC projects simultaneously in Iceland. With our fellow volunteers, we built strong bonds and lasting friendships, sharing the experience of these months together.

Participating in an ESC project has allowed us to learn about the local habits, traditions, and culture, to live and work in the area no longer as tourists, and to dedicate our time and effort to concrete volunteer activities with tangible results for the near future. In the upcoming two final months, we will continue planting and maintaining forests and complete the remaining workcamps, aiming to achieve new activities and create a unique and meaningful experience—not just for us.

Takk fyrir.