2nd January 2025

Collaborative research initiatives in forestry and land reclamation

A four-year collaborative research and development agreement between Land and Forest Iceland and the University of Iceland's environmental and resource science program has been established. This initiative aims to improve our understanding of the ecosystem services provided by Iceland's forests and their value to society. The agreement, signed shortly before Christmas, presents significant project opportunities for the University of Iceland's graduate students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees.

Jón Atli Benediktsson, rektor of the University of Iceland, and Ágúst Sigurðsson, Director of Land and Forest Iceland, shake hands after signing the agreement. Photo: Björn Gíslason

This project seeks to enhance our comprehension of Icelandic forests' ecosystem services and their societal value. While some services, like timber production, are well-understood, others — including water conservation, biodiversity maintenance, carbon sequestration, land valuation, regional development contributions, utility provision, and recreational opportunities — are often overlooked in assessments of forest ecosystem service value. This collaborative effort will support informed decision-making regarding new forest cultivation priorities and existing forest management practices.

Land and Forest Iceland, formed last year by merging two former government agencies specialising in forestry and land reclamation, functions as a leading center of expertise in vegetation and soil resource management. This collaboration exemplifies the University of Iceland's HÍ26 policy promoting societal engagement and impactful public policy research, demonstrating a strong partnership between the University and public sector institutions to advance sustainable practices through research and education.

This collaboration presents numerous opportunities for advancement, education, and research, mutually benefitting both parties' objectives.

The accompanying photographs depict Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland, and Ágúst Sigurðsson, Director of Land and Forest Iceland, exchanging a handshake after the agreement signing. Also pictured are the three professors in attendance: Daði Már Kristófersson, Lára Jóhannsdóttir (Head of the University of Iceland's environmental and resource science program), and Jón Geir Pétursson (from left to right). Photo credit: Björn Gíslason.