The project's inception was driven by the noble objective of "repaying the debt to the land." In commemoration of 1100 years of national residence, the Icelandic parliament approved the budget. Subsequently, a five-year land reclamation program was meticulously executed under the auspices of the National Gift. Funds were allocated to organisations such as the Icelandic Soil Conservation Service, the Icelandic Forestry Service, the Agricultural Research Institute, the Icelandic Environment Association Landvernd, and the Icelandic Farmers’ Association.

The program encompassed initiatives aimed at safeguarding the land from sheep grazing, restoring vegetation cover, applying fertilisers and seeds, conducting thorough soil and vegetation studies, fortifying the cultivation of land-reclamation and forestry materials, and actively promoting social activities within these domains. Furthermore, it sought to foster robust collaboration with the agricultural sector, thereby harnessing their expertise and resources.

Half a century has elapsed since the Icelandic Parliament's decision to establish the National Gift. In light of this milestone, it is fitting to reflect upon the significance of this initiative and assess its success in the current context, where environmental challenges persist as formidable obstacles. The symposium commemorating the 50th anniversary of the National Gift will convene at the Nordic House on Thursday, December 5th. The program will commence at 9:00 AM and conclude at noon.