ARCTIC SUSTAINABILITY IMMERSION: ICELAND
Reykjavík & Akureyri | March 17th-26th, 2027
Photo by Tobin Yates '26
About the Trip
The Dartmouth Sustainability Office and the Institute of Arctic Studies are partnering to offer an immersive learning experience exploring sustainability, climate change, and Arctic futures in Iceland.
Iceland offers a compelling case study in sustainability. Its geography, abundant renewable energy resources, strong connections to the ocean, and rapidly changing tourism economy have shaped both the country’s development and its relationship with the natural world. At the same time, Iceland is navigating many of the challenges facing Arctic regions more broadly: a changing climate, shifting economies, increasing pressure on natural resources, and questions about how communities can adapt while maintaining cultural and ecological resilience.
Throughout the trip, we will ask: What does a sustainable future look like in the Arctic, and who gets to shape it? What can Iceland teach us about the opportunities and tensions involved in transitioning toward a more sustainable future?
Students will explore these questions through the lens of three major pillars of Iceland’s economy — energy, fisheries, and tourism — while also examining Arctic policy, governance, community planning, and climate adaptation.
Photo by Tobin Yates '26
What We’ll Explore
Based in both Reykjavík and Akureyri, students will learn directly from policymakers, planners, researchers, community leaders, industry professionals, and sustainability practitioners.
Experiences may include conversations with experts in Arctic governance and policy; visits with municipal leaders and town planners; tours of geothermal energy production, carbon capture initiatives, aluminum smelting, fish processing, and other industries; and discussions about how Iceland’s energy system influences both economic development and environmental decision-making.
We will also explore the role of fisheries in Icelandic culture and economy, including the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
Tourism provides another important lens. As visitors ourselves, we will examine the opportunities and tensions created by Iceland’s rapidly growing tourism industry through visits with pools and spas, outdoor recreation providers, whale-watching operators, and communities balancing tourism, local needs, and environmental stewardship.
The trip is highly experiential and may include hiking, boat travel, outdoor recreation, site visits, and travel through Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. Students should expect full days, changing weather, and plenty of time spent learning outside of a traditional classroom.
Photo by Tobin Yates '26
Photo by Chris Johnson
Who Should Apply
Participants should be:
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Curious, engaged, and self-motivated learners
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Interested in sustainability, Arctic studies, climate change, policy, or related fields
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Excited to learn through direct experience and conversation
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Comfortable contributing to group discussion and reflection
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Able to work cooperatively with a diverse group
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Flexible and willing to adapt to unfamiliar or sometimes challenging situations
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Ready for an active trip that includes outdoor activities, boat travel, and extended periods of travel
Eligibility
Applicants must:
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Be on campus during 27W term in order to attend the required pre-trip education sessions in person
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Have previously participated in either the Arctic Innovation Scholars Program or a Sustainability Office program, such as the Sustainability Action Program, Climate Scholars, internships, the Sustainable Living Center, or other related programming
Cost
The estimated student cost is $250, which covers travel, programming, housing, and food for the duration of the trip. Need-based financial aid is available up to 100%. Financial aid is determined after acceptance in partnership with Dartmouth’s Financial Aid Office.
How to Apply
Applications are due Sunday, November 15th by 11:59 pm.
Be a Trip Leader
We are currently seeking applications for student trip leaders! Applications are due November 15th by 11:59 pm. If you would like to apply to be a trip leader, you can simply check the box at the end of the regular application. If you are not selected as a leader, your application will be considered in the pool of trip attendees.
We are seeking leaders from diverse backgrounds and with a range of extracurricular and academic interests who are currently undergraduates at Dartmouth. Previous involvement with sustainability, energy systems, earth sciences, health, or environmental justice work is not required. Ideal leaders will:
* Be willing, ready, and excited to learn about sustainability in the Arctic from multiple perspectives and through various social, economic, and political lenses
* Be flexible, willing to go with the flow, and able to consider and advocate for your own needs and the needs of the group
* Be emotionally present and open-minded to hearing different points of view and having dialogue across difference
* Be very responsible with decision making and create an exciting and welcoming atmosphere for trip participants
Photo by Tobin Yates '26
Staff Contacts
Dr. Melody Burkins | Director | Dartmouth Institute of Arctic Studies
Laura Braasch | Sr. Assistant Director | Dartmouth Sustainability Office
Photo by Beam Lertbunnaphongs '25