Iceland Is amazing

A beautiful European island country, Iceland is located in the North Atlantic Ocean on both the Iceland hotspot and Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This is a highly active region both geologically and volcanically, experiencing volcanic eruptions on average of about every 5 years. This fascinating world is also home to many geysers. One well noted would be Strokkur, which erupts every 5 to 10 minutes.

With over 200 volcanoes and 600 hot springs, this wide spread geothermal power along with numerous rivers and waterfalls provide most of Iceland's population of around 320,000 people to maintain in expensive home and water heating. Renewable resources provide Iceland with all of its electricity and about 80% of the nation's energy. This geothermal energy accounts for 66% of Iceland's primary energy with 15% coming from hydro power and 19% coming from fossil fuels. That is amazing.

Another interesting fact about Iceland is that it is also home to Surtsey, one of the world's youngest islands. Surtsey emerged above waters after a series of volcanic eruptions from November 1963 through June 1968. This island is only allowed visitation from members of the scientific community.

Iceland has a sub polar climate and usually maintains warmer temperatures than other regions located at similar latitudes. This is due to a warm North Atlantic current. And despite its Arctic location Iceland remains ice free during the winter months. That is amazing as well, the last incursion of ice hasn't occurred since 1969. And obviously the temperature does vary through out the island. The south tend to be warmer and windier than the north with the central highlands are the coldest parts of this fascinating region.

Formally considered a forest from mountains to sea, Iceland is barren of vegetation on three-quarters of its land. Due in part to over exploitation of the timber and firewood markets. Once plentiful with Northern Birch, Common Juniper, Aspen, and Rowan trees Iceland's plant life consists mostly of grasslands and small trees.

Iceland's wildlife is limited as well having a few animals that call it home. The Arctic Fox, mink, vermin, rabbits, and reindeer. Occasionally a polar bear may visit the island by way of an iceberg from Greenland. Iceland is also home to a large variety of fish in the ocean and surrounding waterways. Fishing is and has always been Iceland's main contributor to their economy. Iceland also intermittently practices whaling and whale research and has added whale watching as another important part of their economy.

Iceland seems to be quite an amazing region that provides itself with beauty and mystery. A scientific paradise, this is a wondrous region of true natural beauty, and many exciting resources that they have incorporated into their lives. From the glaciers and the volcanoes and the use of geothermal and hydro energy Iceland is amazing.