Iceland is one of the least forested countries in Europe. It is estimated that Iceland was once covered by forests up to 40%, but now only about 1.5% remains. As part of its goal to become carbon neutral by 2040, Iceland is focusing on reforestation. However, these efforts are hindered by a lack of resources, soil erosion from prolonged deforestation, overgrazing, and concerns about potential negative impacts on tourism—one of Iceland’s largest sources of income.

Tourism in Iceland has surged dramatically, with visitor numbers having quintupled over the past decade and expected to continue rising. Many countries, including Iceland, do not include emissions caused by tourism in their national greenhouse gas inventories; instead, these emissions are covered under a special arrangement by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), rather than the original terms set out in the Kyoto Protocol.*

The photographs were taken using a modified camera to capture digital infrared wavelengths. Infrared photography is used in forestry for identifying tree species and assessing forest health.