What if your next trip to Iceland could do more than create unforgettable memories?
In this episode, I sit down with Anne Peters and geologist Johannes Marteinn from Katla UNESCO Global Geopark to explore one of the most fascinating experiences I’ve ever had in Iceland: science-backed expeditions where everyday travelers help collect real scientific data.
The best part? You don’t need any scientific experience. If you can hike, take photos, or learn to use simple equipment, you can contribute to research that’s helping scientists better understand Iceland’s rapidly changing landscapes.
In this episode
- What “citizen science” really means
- How anyone can participate in real scientific research in Iceland
- My experience collecting glacier, dead ice, and coastline data
- Why Katla Geopark is one of Iceland’s most geologically diverse regions
- How scientists monitor glaciers, dead ice, and coastal erosion
- What happens to the data after each expedition
- Why these small-group adventures are designed with sustainability in mind
Some surprising facts you'll learn about Iceland
- Katla UNESCO Global Geopark covers nearly 10% of Iceland.
- Parts of Iceland’s South Coast are eroding by an average of about five meters every year.
- During one storm in 2022, scientists measured up to 100 meters (328 feet) of coastline disappearing in a single event.
- Participants receive reports, updates showing how their measurements contribute to ongoing research, and a certification of completion.
Save 10% on your own Citizen Scientist Expedition in Iceland
If you’d like to experience one of these science-backed expeditions yourself, you can save 10% by using my code JEWELLS when booking through Katla UNESCO Global Geopark.
Here is the expeditions – https://www.katlageopark.com/about-katla/research/science-driven-expeditions/
I genuinely loved taking part in these expeditions because I wasn’t just admiring Iceland’s incredible landscapes, I was helping researchers collect information that contributes to understanding how Iceland is changing. It completely transformed the way I think about travel, and I hope this conversation inspires you to experience Iceland in a whole new way as a citizen scientist.
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.