Surtsey is a volcanic island which emerged from the sea in November 1963 off the southern coast of Iceland. I have mentioned it previously on the blog as it is a large natural laboratory.
This piece in the Guardian talks about its importance as a place which has been protected from human interference for over 60 years.
In 1965, Surtsey was placed under formal protection by the government. Only researchers and the odd journalist – under strict supervision – would be allowed to visit. No sheep would ever be allowed to graze there.
It offers hope and practical lessons for rehabilitating ecosystems damaged by war, pollution or exploitation: if space is given, nature will always find ways to return, often faster and more creatively than we expect.
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