Iceland is world-renowned for its pristine environment and exceptionally clean air. Surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean and powered almost entirely by renewable geothermal and hydropower energy, the country consistently ranks among the nations with the best air quality on Earth.
While air pollution in Iceland is rare compared to global standards, there are occasional local and natural sources of pollutants that can influence AQI levels.
Reykjavik, the capital, is home to two-thirds of Iceland’s population and offers live AQI updates, pollutant breakdowns, forecasts, and UV index for residents and visitors.
Despite its reputation for clean air, Iceland experiences occasional episodes of air pollution from both natural and human activities:
Iceland has one of the cleanest energy mixes in the world, with nearly 100% of electricity and heating coming from renewable sources. This drastically reduces emissions compared to fossil-fuel reliant nations.
Reykjavik has also introduced policies to reduce traffic emissions, encourage electric vehicle adoption, and improve public transportation and cycling infrastructure.
Historically, Reykjavik suffered from coal and oil burning in the mid-20th century, but since the transition to geothermal heating, urban air quality has improved dramatically. Today, pollution peaks are mostly linked to volcanic activity or rare weather conditions.
Looking ahead, Iceland’s continued investment in green energy and EVs ensures that it will remain a global leader in clean air for decades to come.
Few countries can match Iceland’s combination of natural winds, renewable energy, and low population density. Visitors frequently notice the clarity and freshness of the air, making Iceland one of the healthiest environments in the world for both residents and tourists.