Iceland

Iceland

Iceland aims to be a leader in combating climate change and complying with the provisions of the Paris Agreement. Scientific expertise forms the basis for all government action on climate change. A sustainable and just transition for all sections of society will be the guiding principle in the current transformation due to the climate threat and technological change.

Iceland has set ambitious measures to reduce emissions from land use and accelerate energy conversion in all areas. The goal is to achieve carbon neutrality and full energy conversion no later than 2040, which will make Iceland the first state to be independent of fossil fuels. Currently, 100% of electricity and space heating needs are met with renewable energy in Iceland.

Energy conversion is a key aspect of Iceland’s efforts to successfully combat climate change while concurrently strengthening the country’s economic position and becoming a leader in international energy conversion. This will be based on a recent energy policy safeguarding the interests of current and future generations and aimed at sustainable development by balancing economic, social and environmental factors.

Energy conversion is a key aspect of Iceland’s efforts to successfully combat climate change while concurrently strengthening the country’s economic position and becoming a leader in international energy conversion. 

International cooperation in the policy areas of climate, natural resources and environmental issues is a principal task of Iceland’s foreign service. It is vital that Iceland’s voice is heard in the crafting of new solutions and responses to challenges of climate change, exploitation of natural resources and environmental challenges.

Active participation includes Iceland being an active member in all international agencies supporting climate mitigation, adaptation and resilience. Examples of these active engagements is the cooperation with the World Meteorological Organization, supporting low-income countries in improving meteorological observations to increase their resilience to climate change, and in supporting the work of the UN Development Programme assisting developing countries in their national contributions towards the goals of the Paris Agreement.