Surtsey
Country
Iceland
Inscribed in
2008
Criterion
(ix)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "good" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
Surtsey, a volcanic island approximately 32 km from the south coast of Iceland, is a new island formed by volcanic eruptions that took place from 1963 to 1967. It is all the more outstanding for having been protected since its birth, providing the world with a pristine natural laboratory. Free from human interference, Surtsey has been producing unique long-term information on the colonisation process of new land by plant and animal life. Since they began studying the island in 1964, scientists have observed the arrival of seeds carried by ocean currents, the appearance of moulds, bacteria and fungi, followed in 1965 by the first vascular plant, of which there were 10 species by the end of the first decade. By 2004, they numbered 60 together with 75 bryophytes, 71 lichens and 24 fungi. Eighty-nine species of birds have been recorded on Surtsey, 57 of which breed elsewhere in Iceland. The 141 ha island is also home to 335 species of invertebrates. © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 Oct 2025
Good
Current state and trend of VALUES
Good
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Ongoing scientific research of the colonisation and succession of life
Criterion
(ix)
Surtsey is a world-recognised model for research of the colonisation and succession of life on a totally sterile land surface. Surtsey was born as a new volcanic island in 1963-67 and since that time has played a major role in studies of succession and colonisation (World Heritage Committee, 2008).
Ongoing process of colonization by plants and animals
Criterion
(ix)
Surtsey has been the site of one of the few long term studies worldwide on primary succession, providing a unique scientific record of the process of colonisation of land by plants, animals and marine organisms (World Heritage Committee, 2008).
Pristine natural laboratory
Criterion
(ix)
Not only is it geographically isolated, but it has been legally protected from its birth, providing the world with a pristine natural laboratory, free from human interference (World Heritage Committee, 2008). Because of its continuing protection, Surtsey will continue to provide invaluable data on biological colonisation long into the future. Long-term continuous scientific research and monitoring in Surtsey is valuable in valuating environmental changes (World Heritage Committee, 2008).
Important habitat for breeding and foraging birds
According to the Icelandic Institute of Natural History (2023), several bird species have been known to breed on Surtsey including the black-backed gull (Larus fuscus) and herring gull (Larus argentatus), greylag geese (Anser anser), common eider (Somateria mollisima), fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis), and raven (Corvus corax).
Puffins (Fratercula arctica), Rita (Rissa tridactyla) and Eurasian curlew (Cepphus grylle) were seen on cliffs along the island, but breeding could not be confirmed.
Of the passerines, snow wagtails (Plectrophenax nivalis), white wagtails (Motacilla alba), meadow tit (Anthus pratensis), meadow pipit (Oenanthe oenanthe) and wood thrush (Turdus iliacus) have also been recoded. Other species include the plover (Pluvialis apricaria), sandpiper (Calidris maritima) and phalaropes (Phalaropus lobatus), which have been seen foraging along the coast.
Puffins (Fratercula arctica), Rita (Rissa tridactyla) and Eurasian curlew (Cepphus grylle) were seen on cliffs along the island, but breeding could not be confirmed.
Of the passerines, snow wagtails (Plectrophenax nivalis), white wagtails (Motacilla alba), meadow tit (Anthus pratensis), meadow pipit (Oenanthe oenanthe) and wood thrush (Turdus iliacus) have also been recoded. Other species include the plover (Pluvialis apricaria), sandpiper (Calidris maritima) and phalaropes (Phalaropus lobatus), which have been seen foraging along the coast.
Important study area for the colonisation and succession of vascular plants
Since Surtsey was formed in 1963–1967, the colonisation of vascular plants has been carefully recorded. During 1965–2015, a total of 74 vascular plant species were found on Surtsey (Magnússon et al. 2022). Six main vegetations types were identified, forming a gradient from scattered, species poor pioneer vegetation to a dense, lush vegetation developed under by high nutrient input from breeding seagulls. Over this period major vegetation changes occurred. Areas with pioneer vegetation have greatly decreased, while areas with Honckenya and gravel flat vegetation, and forb rich grassland have increased. The number of species per ha increased on average from 4.8 to 7.2 and 10.4 in the years 1996-1997, 2005-2006, 2014-2015 respectively. Despite the great influence of seabirds within their breeding colony, most of the island still has sparse vegetation cover. The colonising species differed greatly in their rate of dispersal. Species with the greatest rate were Honckenya peploides, Poa annua and Silene uniflora, followed by Sagina procumbens, Puccinellia coarctata, Cerastium fontanum, Arabidopsis petraea, Leymus arenarius and Rumex acetosella (Magnússon et al. 2022).
Feeding ground for cetaceans
Killer whales, pilot whales and minke whales have been observed within the Surtsey Nature Reserve in June-August, although survey effort within this area has been lower than in other parts of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. Therefore, the list of species is expected to increase with higher effort. Killer whales were the species observed most commonly and were seen during the summer months, most often on the east and north coasts. Both observational and animal-attached tag data suggest killer whales were feeding within the reserve (Samarra et al. 2022).
Best documented submarine eruption
The Surtsey eruption is the best-documented submarine eruption to date and has provided invaluable information on post-eruptional processes such as the alteration of tephra into tuff and the evolution of a geothermal area.
Assessment information
Current threats are low, but some concerns exist, particularly with regards to shipping lanes and large vessels, and dumping of waste at sea. Vigilance is required to ensure that oil spills, the discharge of sewage or solid waste from visiting recreational boats, fishing boats or cruise ships, is prevented and no harm occurs to the marine areas and natural environment surrounding Surtsey. These threats can increase with increasing tourism in the ocean around Surtsey.
Recreational Activities
(Tourism)
Inside site
, Not applicable
There has been debate of whether or not to allow controlled tourism on the island. The municipality of Vestmannaeyjar has several times sent a request to the Environment Agency to have permission to go ashore in Surtsey with tourists (State Party of Iceland, 2007). Currently, a very strict protection regime applies and there are no plans to change the management regime or access restrictions on Surtsey (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
Shipping Lanes
(Boats and vessels)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Although it is prohibited to go onshore in the Reserve, vigilance is required by passing boats and vessels to ensure that oil spills, the discharge of sewage or the disposal of food or solid waste from visiting recreational boats, fishing boats or cruise ships, is prevented and no harm occurs to the marine areas and natural environment surrounding Surtsey.
The Management Plan (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014) and Action plan for 2014-2019 suggest a restriction zone along the coast of Surtsey that indicates the distance that boats can sail up to. This is further strengthened by the Guidelines for masters of cruise and passenger ships arriving in Iceland (Umhverfisstofnun et al. 2024) which outlines specific rules and regulations, including to prevent pollution and discharge of substances and limits the distance ships can travel to nesting seabirds and cliffs.
The Management Plan (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014) and Action plan for 2014-2019 suggest a restriction zone along the coast of Surtsey that indicates the distance that boats can sail up to. This is further strengthened by the Guidelines for masters of cruise and passenger ships arriving in Iceland (Umhverfisstofnun et al. 2024) which outlines specific rules and regulations, including to prevent pollution and discharge of substances and limits the distance ships can travel to nesting seabirds and cliffs.
Garbage & Solid Waste
(Marine litter)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
The dumping of waste at sea, including damaged nets, fishing gear, containers or household garbage, is
an issue of concern, as significant quantities of litter wash up on Surtsey's shores every year (State
Party of Iceland, 2007; 2024). It negatively impacts marine wildlife within the boundary, as birds and marine mammals have been seen tangled in marine litter.
The Environment Agency recorded litter on the shore of the northern tip, and two 100m long sections of the coast of Surtsey is monitored according to the methodology of the OSPAR Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic (Surtsey Island Biologists' Expedition, 2024). All marine litter on the shores of Surtsey is collected every summer and registered, before being taken off the island and properly discarded (State party of Iceland, 2024).
an issue of concern, as significant quantities of litter wash up on Surtsey's shores every year (State
Party of Iceland, 2007; 2024). It negatively impacts marine wildlife within the boundary, as birds and marine mammals have been seen tangled in marine litter.
The Environment Agency recorded litter on the shore of the northern tip, and two 100m long sections of the coast of Surtsey is monitored according to the methodology of the OSPAR Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic (Surtsey Island Biologists' Expedition, 2024). All marine litter on the shores of Surtsey is collected every summer and registered, before being taken off the island and properly discarded (State party of Iceland, 2024).
Potential threats are low and not of much concern except for invasive alien species. In the Management Plan, a five-year Action plan (2014-2019) includes actions needed to prevent invasive alien species from reaching the Surtsey island by humans and to exterminate them if they are found on the island. Climate change is expected to have influence on the biodiversity on land and sea in the future.
Invasive Non-Native/ Alien Species
(Invasive alien species)
Inside site
, Not applicable
Outside site
Invasive alien species are a major threat to the biodiversity of remote islands of the world. Every effort will be made to ensure that Surtsey remains free of alien invasive species. If a new species of plant or animal is found on Surtsey, which is considered alien invasive on the mainland, actions are taken to remove it before it has a chance to spread (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014). No invasive alien species have been reforded in the island so far. But invasive plants are found on the only inhabitated island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipielago, Heimaey, that is 18 km SE from Surtsey.
Unknown Threats
(Man-made infrastructures on the island)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Some minor development activities may be required in the future for monitoring, research and conservation within the Surtsey Nature Reserve. Any such development activities will be subject to a full Environmental Impact Assessment in accordance with national law and consent by the Environment Agency (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014). The hut in Surtsey and the automatic weather station need to be regularly maintained. Improvement on the helipad is needed and has been under discussion the past years (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Changes in Physical & Chemical Regimes, Changes in Temperature Regimes, Changes in Precipitation & Hydrological Regime
(Climate change)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Climate changes can in the future affect natural colonization process and ecosystem developments of
terrestrial biota and marine organisms at Surtsey. The climate of Surtsey is similar to the climate of
other islands in the archipelago and comparison with 30 years time series (1981-2010) on
Heimaey shows that in the last decade January-March has become warmer than earlier (Petersen et al.,
2020). More recently, drier and warmer weather in summer 2023 has shown to have negatively impacted vascular plant species (Surtsey Island Biologists' Expedition 2023; 2024).
terrestrial biota and marine organisms at Surtsey. The climate of Surtsey is similar to the climate of
other islands in the archipelago and comparison with 30 years time series (1981-2010) on
Heimaey shows that in the last decade January-March has become warmer than earlier (Petersen et al.,
2020). More recently, drier and warmer weather in summer 2023 has shown to have negatively impacted vascular plant species (Surtsey Island Biologists' Expedition 2023; 2024).
Geological Events
(Volcanic eruption)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Surtsey belongs to the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago which constitutes a separate volcanic system at the
southern end of the Eastern Volcanic Zone of Iceland, the Vestmannaeyjar volcanic system. Volcanic
eruption within the system cannot be excluded (State Party of Iceland, 2007). An earthquake of
magnitude 3.1 in Richter scale happened off shore near Surtsey in April 2015 (Icelandic Met Office,
2015).
southern end of the Eastern Volcanic Zone of Iceland, the Vestmannaeyjar volcanic system. Volcanic
eruption within the system cannot be excluded (State Party of Iceland, 2007). An earthquake of
magnitude 3.1 in Richter scale happened off shore near Surtsey in April 2015 (Icelandic Met Office,
2015).
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
The island of Surtsey is an important part of the inhabitant’s local pride and identity and symbolises their
close relationship with the natural environment. There has been debate amongst local inhabitants about
whether or not to allow controlled tourism on the island. Currently, there are no plans to change the
management regime or access restrictions on Surtsey. Local stakeholders are actively involved in the update of the management plan.
close relationship with the natural environment. There has been debate amongst local inhabitants about
whether or not to allow controlled tourism on the island. Currently, there are no plans to change the
management regime or access restrictions on Surtsey. Local stakeholders are actively involved in the update of the management plan.
Legal framework
The property is owned by the Icelandic State and is protected as a Nature Reserve under the Act No. 44/1999 on Nature Conservation. Although since then the nature conservation act has been implemented (Act No. 60/2013 on Nature Conservation), Surtsey was protected as a nature reserve under the former act (Act No. 44/1999 on Nature Conservation).
The Municipality of Vestmannaeyjar is the planning authority for the area. Surtsey falls within the IUCN Protected Area Management Category 1a (Strict Nature Reserve).
The site benefits from effective national legal protection, which provides the The Nature Conservation Agency with a mandate, including detailed role description, for the conservation of protected areas in the country, including Surtsey.
The Municipality of Vestmannaeyjar is the planning authority for the area. Surtsey falls within the IUCN Protected Area Management Category 1a (Strict Nature Reserve).
The site benefits from effective national legal protection, which provides the The Nature Conservation Agency with a mandate, including detailed role description, for the conservation of protected areas in the country, including Surtsey.
Governance arrangements
The supervision of the nature reserve is in the responsibility of the Environment Agency.
Six member advisory panel meets twice a year to discuss the Surtsey Nature Reserve issues. The panel
includes representatives from the Agency, the Surtsey Research Society, the Icelandic Institute of
Natural History, the Marine Research Institute, and two representatives from the Municipality of
Vestmannaeyjar. By special agreement of the Ministry of Environment, the Surtsey Research Society coordinates all research on the island and advises on other activities (IUCN, 2008).
The Municipality of Vestmannaeyjar is the local guardian and physical planning authority for the Surtsey
Nature Reserve.
Six member advisory panel meets twice a year to discuss the Surtsey Nature Reserve issues. The panel
includes representatives from the Agency, the Surtsey Research Society, the Icelandic Institute of
Natural History, the Marine Research Institute, and two representatives from the Municipality of
Vestmannaeyjar. By special agreement of the Ministry of Environment, the Surtsey Research Society coordinates all research on the island and advises on other activities (IUCN, 2008).
The Municipality of Vestmannaeyjar is the local guardian and physical planning authority for the Surtsey
Nature Reserve.
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
The Municipality of Vestmannaeyjar is the local guardian and physical planning authority for the Surtsey
Nature Reserve.
Nature Reserve.
Boundaries
The total area of Surtsey Nature Reserve is 65,6 km2. The size of the area listed on UNESCO World
Heritage List is 33.7 km2 and coincides with the strictly protected part of the nationally designated
Reserve. It encompasses the entire Surtsey volcano, of which 1.4 km2 is above and 13.2 km2 below sea
surface, plus 19.1 km2 of surrounding ocean. The remaining 31.9 km2 oceanic area of the nationally
designated Reserve is defined as a buffer zone for the nature heritage site (State Party of Iceland, 2007;
IUCN, 2008).
Heritage List is 33.7 km2 and coincides with the strictly protected part of the nationally designated
Reserve. It encompasses the entire Surtsey volcano, of which 1.4 km2 is above and 13.2 km2 below sea
surface, plus 19.1 km2 of surrounding ocean. The remaining 31.9 km2 oceanic area of the nationally
designated Reserve is defined as a buffer zone for the nature heritage site (State Party of Iceland, 2007;
IUCN, 2008).
Overlapping international designations
N/A
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
No recent Committee decisions.
Climate action
Since May 2009 there have been continuous automatic weather measurements in Surtsey developing long-term climatic information for the site (Petersen and Jónsson, 2020). Furthermore, the extensive research and monitoring activities on the site consider and measure climate-related changes in flora and fauna and geological landforms.
Management plan and overall management system
The Management Plan 2014-2023 for the site provides a long term vision for management of the Reserve, along with a series of goals and objectives that include the necessary measures for integrated conservation, research, monitoring and interpretation. The Plan includes a five year Action plan (2014- 2019) for the Reserve (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014). Surtsey is a highly controlled, isolated environment and no visitors are allowed on the island (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
A working group consisting of representatives from the Environment Agency, the Natural History Institute, the Surtsey Society and the Marine Research Institute is currently working on a review of the management and protection plan for the Surtsey Nature Reserve. The working group is appointed in the same manner as the nature reserve's advisory committee, as provided for in Article 4 of the Nature Reserve Declaration No. 50/2006. Consultation is a very important part of the work on management and protection plans, and it is important that it begins at the earliest stages of the matter. The aim of the consultation is to inform about the progress of the project and to bring different perspectives and expertise into the work. Currently, a draft plan is being prepared for consultation by various stakeholders (Umhverfisstofnun, 2024).
A working group consisting of representatives from the Environment Agency, the Natural History Institute, the Surtsey Society and the Marine Research Institute is currently working on a review of the management and protection plan for the Surtsey Nature Reserve. The working group is appointed in the same manner as the nature reserve's advisory committee, as provided for in Article 4 of the Nature Reserve Declaration No. 50/2006. Consultation is a very important part of the work on management and protection plans, and it is important that it begins at the earliest stages of the matter. The aim of the consultation is to inform about the progress of the project and to bring different perspectives and expertise into the work. Currently, a draft plan is being prepared for consultation by various stakeholders (Umhverfisstofnun, 2024).
Law enforcement
Under the current regime of strict protection and being isolated, the Surtsey island essentially protects
itself. All visits to Surtsey cause some disturbance but the regulation limiting the possible number of
visits in the period July to September and specific number of visitors in each tour, minimise disturbances
on the environment. It is crucial that all research projects also strictly comply with the regulations to
minimise any possible disturbance.
itself. All visits to Surtsey cause some disturbance but the regulation limiting the possible number of
visits in the period July to September and specific number of visitors in each tour, minimise disturbances
on the environment. It is crucial that all research projects also strictly comply with the regulations to
minimise any possible disturbance.
Sustainable finance
The Environment Agency receives yearly national budget from the state to manage protected areas.
Those that get permission for filming or photographing on Surtsey pay fees to the Agency for the
transport and supervision of the warden while visiting the island.
Sustainable financing for research and monitoring are restricted. To ensure regular scientific excursions
to the island and material costs for regular monitoring and further scientific work on the island funds
need to be secured for the long-term. The most recent periodic report states that the budget is sufficient for the effective management of the property and is secure for the medium and long term (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
The Surtsey Research Society (SRS) provides funding to maintain the hut in Surtsey and for regular aerial
photographing of the island every second year.
Those that get permission for filming or photographing on Surtsey pay fees to the Agency for the
transport and supervision of the warden while visiting the island.
Sustainable financing for research and monitoring are restricted. To ensure regular scientific excursions
to the island and material costs for regular monitoring and further scientific work on the island funds
need to be secured for the long-term. The most recent periodic report states that the budget is sufficient for the effective management of the property and is secure for the medium and long term (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
The Surtsey Research Society (SRS) provides funding to maintain the hut in Surtsey and for regular aerial
photographing of the island every second year.
Staff capacity, training and development
The Environment Agency is responsible for providing trained staff to ensure day-to-day management of
the Surtsey Nature Reserve. The site manager has an office in the town of Vestmannaeyjar.
Surtsey Visitor Centre was closed in 2014 and the exhibition part was moved to the volcano museum
Eldheimar in Vestmannaeyjar town (Eldheimar, 2017). Since then the Head Warden is the only staff
member, year-round, for the Reserve.
the Surtsey Nature Reserve. The site manager has an office in the town of Vestmannaeyjar.
Surtsey Visitor Centre was closed in 2014 and the exhibition part was moved to the volcano museum
Eldheimar in Vestmannaeyjar town (Eldheimar, 2017). Since then the Head Warden is the only staff
member, year-round, for the Reserve.
Education and interpretation programmes
The Environment Agency is responsible for providing up-to-date information and interpretation material
on the Surtsey Nature Reserve through brochures, posters and the Internet. An interpretation and education strategy for five years period was foreseen in the Management plan 2014-2023 (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014), however this has not been published.
The Surtsey visitor center is located in the town of Vestmannaeyjabær, which is the nearest village to the UNESCO property, approximately 15 km away from the property. The visitor center is located in the Eldheimar Museum. The visitor center positively impacts the property, as it provides information regarding the outstanding value of the property for the public. As guests cannot visit the property, the importance of the visitor center is significant (State party of Iceland, 2024).
on the Surtsey Nature Reserve through brochures, posters and the Internet. An interpretation and education strategy for five years period was foreseen in the Management plan 2014-2023 (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014), however this has not been published.
The Surtsey visitor center is located in the town of Vestmannaeyjabær, which is the nearest village to the UNESCO property, approximately 15 km away from the property. The visitor center is located in the Eldheimar Museum. The visitor center positively impacts the property, as it provides information regarding the outstanding value of the property for the public. As guests cannot visit the property, the importance of the visitor center is significant (State party of Iceland, 2024).
Tourism and visitation management
Since visits to Surtsey are de facto prohibited the main focus for tourism development relating to the island will be indirect rather than direct and therefore education and interpretation programmes are important. All visitors to the property need a permit from the Environment Agency of Iceland. Only 1-3 visits are allowed annually and the number of visitors can be counted easily. A maximum of 10-12 visitors (excluding site manager, which is always present) are allowed for each visit (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
Although tourists are not allowed to go ashore on Surtsey, it is permissible to travel by boat within the
Reserve and view the island from the sea or air (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014). Opportunities exist for boat
trips to the Reserve from the harbour in Vestmannaeyjar. Aerial sightseeing, when undertaken in a
controlled and responsible manner, also provides an excellent means of viewing the island and its geological formations. Tourism is an important element of the economy of the Vestmannaeyjar
Municipality and there is a strong need to communicate and promote the site in the municipality after
the island was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Although tourists are not allowed to go ashore on Surtsey, it is permissible to travel by boat within the
Reserve and view the island from the sea or air (Umhverfisstofnun, 2014). Opportunities exist for boat
trips to the Reserve from the harbour in Vestmannaeyjar. Aerial sightseeing, when undertaken in a
controlled and responsible manner, also provides an excellent means of viewing the island and its geological formations. Tourism is an important element of the economy of the Vestmannaeyjar
Municipality and there is a strong need to communicate and promote the site in the municipality after
the island was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Sustainable use
Visits to Surtsey are limited to researchers and are under supervision of the Head Warden. Research
expeditions in Surtsey are sustainable and researchers are aware of making no impact on the
environment while staying on Surtsey. Sampling is minimal and taken with care. All garbage is
transported back in the end of each expedition.
expeditions in Surtsey are sustainable and researchers are aware of making no impact on the
environment while staying on Surtsey. Sampling is minimal and taken with care. All garbage is
transported back in the end of each expedition.
Monitoring
The Icelandic Institute of Natural History, Marine Research Institute and the Agricultural University of
Iceland, in cooperation with the Surtsey Research Society, conduct research and monitoring of the state
of natural phenomena within the Reserve. Ever since Surtsey emerged from the sea during the 1963—1967 submarine eruption, the geomorphological processes, biological and geological features have been studied and monitored with minimal human impact. This also includes regular aerial photographs, mapping and multi-beam bathymetric mapping of the surrounding sea floor (State Party of Iceland, 2007; 2024; IUCN, 2008; World Heritage Committee, 2008; Surtsey Research Society, 2015). Surtsey is free of
human interference and is, in a normal year, visited by a single group of ca. 10 scientist. Monitoring on ecological succession and general status of wildlife and flora is thoroughly carried with low-impact studies out by scientists as well as site manager annually on those visits (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
Iceland, in cooperation with the Surtsey Research Society, conduct research and monitoring of the state
of natural phenomena within the Reserve. Ever since Surtsey emerged from the sea during the 1963—1967 submarine eruption, the geomorphological processes, biological and geological features have been studied and monitored with minimal human impact. This also includes regular aerial photographs, mapping and multi-beam bathymetric mapping of the surrounding sea floor (State Party of Iceland, 2007; 2024; IUCN, 2008; World Heritage Committee, 2008; Surtsey Research Society, 2015). Surtsey is free of
human interference and is, in a normal year, visited by a single group of ca. 10 scientist. Monitoring on ecological succession and general status of wildlife and flora is thoroughly carried with low-impact studies out by scientists as well as site manager annually on those visits (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
Research
The OUV of Surtsey lies in its invaluable data on biological processes, such as colonisation and succession of plants and wildlife on newly formed land. An annual trip is made by scientists each summer to continue the 60 year long study. Most of the academic work is carried out by scientists who are members of the Surtsey Research society and a great number of articles have been published in an nearly-annual journal dedicated to research on the island, Surtsey Research (State Party of Iceland, 2024).
The Surtsey Research Society coordinates research and furthers scientific knowledge about the Reserve
(www.surtsey.is). It has published 15 reports on the results of scientific work in Surtsey on their web site
(https://surtsey.is/utgafa-surtseyjarfelagsins/). The newest report was published in 2022.
The Icelandic Institute of Natural History (IINH), the Marine Research Institute and Agricultural University
of Iceland conduct research and regular monitoring of the natural conditions of the island of Surtsey.
Every year the IINH publishes on their webpage a short overview about the summer expedition in Surtsey.
All research within Surtsey Nature Reserve should contribute to the greater understanding and appreciation of the Reserve.
The Surtsey Research Society coordinates research and furthers scientific knowledge about the Reserve
(www.surtsey.is). It has published 15 reports on the results of scientific work in Surtsey on their web site
(https://surtsey.is/utgafa-surtseyjarfelagsins/). The newest report was published in 2022.
The Icelandic Institute of Natural History (IINH), the Marine Research Institute and Agricultural University
of Iceland conduct research and regular monitoring of the natural conditions of the island of Surtsey.
Every year the IINH publishes on their webpage a short overview about the summer expedition in Surtsey.
All research within Surtsey Nature Reserve should contribute to the greater understanding and appreciation of the Reserve.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
Threats outside the site are mainly the shipping lane with large vessels sailing south of Surtsey. Oil
spills, sewage and disposal of garbage waste from vessels, fishing boats and cruise ships are all of
some concern. In 2009, a new regulation proposed by the Icelandic Maritime Administration
delimited a zone defined as an “Area to be Avoided” that put the main shipping lane farther out
south from the Reserve.
spills, sewage and disposal of garbage waste from vessels, fishing boats and cruise ships are all of
some concern. In 2009, a new regulation proposed by the Icelandic Maritime Administration
delimited a zone defined as an “Area to be Avoided” that put the main shipping lane farther out
south from the Reserve.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
The Action plan set out several objectives for the period 2014-2019, however with the ongoing evaluation process and development of an updated management plan, the results remain outstanding to what extend the management system has been effective in protecting the site. Nevertheless, overall, with the strong legal protection, lack of tourism and excellent monitoring and research, the current system appears highly effective at protecting the OUV. Further work could be done on improving education and awareness raising about the site and it's unique contribution to scientific knowledge.
Under the current regime of strict protection, the Surtsey island essentially protects itself. The Surtsey Nature Reserve has, since its inception in 1965, de facto been managed in conformity with the requirements of an IUCN category 1a Strict Nature Reserve. The Management Plan (2014-2023) further strengthened the protection along with the Action Plan 2014-2019. There is currently an ongoing evaluation and update of the Management Plan ongoing with input from several stakeholders. Additional promotion about the Surtsey Nature Reserve is needed under the auspice of the Environment Agency.
Ongoing scientific research of the colonisation and succession of life
Good
Trend
Improving
The pristine volcanic island of Surtsey remains a natural laboratory of global significance for studying ongoing geological, geomorphological and ecological processes in the development of landforms and biological communities (NS report, 2007; State Party of Iceland, 2024).
Ongoing process of colonization by plants and animals
Low Concern
Trend
Stable
Colonisation and ecosystem developments of terrestrial biota on Surtsey have been followed since the formation of the island (Surtsey Island Biologists' Expedition, 2024). Thanks to strict regulations and effective management, all natural processes remain largely unaffected by human activities.
Pristine natural laboratory
Good
Trend
Stable
Strict regulations for research are in place and no tourists are allowed on the island. The island remains a unique natural laboratory and various long-term research projects provide important baseline and indicators concerning the response of a young island system to disturbances such as climate change (Surtsey Research Society, 2009).
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Stable
Surtsey is of outstanding global significance because of its current geological and ecological features as well as the thoroughly studied geomorphological and biophysical processes which have created them. The fact that these features and processes have remained unaffected by human activities makes Surtsey a unique natural laboratory of global significance. The island’s integrity and its values have been preserved through a very strict protection regime since 1965.
Assessment of the current state and trend of other important biodiversity values
Low Concern
Stable
The expedition in 2023 showed that since 2020, the number of higher plant species has therefore decreased by 13%. Populations of several species had collapsed since sampling in 2022 including castor bean (Armeria maritima) and sedge (Carex maritima). There was also an unusually low number of dogwood (Rumex acetocella). The population of Atriplex spp. decreased significantly from last year, but two plants were found in the southwestern part of the island. There was extensive damage to black heather (Empetrum nigrum) in the southeastern part of the island. However, the population of coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) has more than doubled since last year, with 36 plants found in the volcanic ash at the Surt crater, compared to 16 plants found the previous summer. The reasons behind such a large decline in the flora of Surt Island recently need to be examined more closely. It is likely that the dry season has made it difficult for plants - measurements of soil moisture content have never shown such low values since 2004 (Icelandic Institute of Natural History, 2023). The expedition in 2024 showed that the vegetation was in good condition, but the effects of the dry summer of 2023 were evident, especially in the area where the Puccinellia capillaris grows on lava rocks on the southwest side of the island, where it has mostly died. That year, the number of vascular plant species on the island decreased by five, and the decline was attributed to the drought. The assessment of the summer of 2024 shows that the number of species is unchanged from the previous year, which gives hope that the dry season did not have a long-term impact on the vascular plant flora of Surtsey (Icelandic Institute of Natural History, 2024).
The dry and warmer weather is also impacting fauna, however the most recent expeditions showed relatively stable populations of breeding and other bird species (Icelandic Institute of Natural History, 2023). There seemed to be fewer black-backed and herring gulls than before, although no counts were made in 2024. There were fewer passerines than there have been, but a few pairs of tufted tit, sunbird and common tern were on the island with young. There were no signs of greylag geese, but they have been nesting on the island for some time (Icelandic Institute of Natural History, 2024).
The dry and warmer weather is also impacting fauna, however the most recent expeditions showed relatively stable populations of breeding and other bird species (Icelandic Institute of Natural History, 2023). There seemed to be fewer black-backed and herring gulls than before, although no counts were made in 2024. There were fewer passerines than there have been, but a few pairs of tufted tit, sunbird and common tern were on the island with young. There were no signs of greylag geese, but they have been nesting on the island for some time (Icelandic Institute of Natural History, 2024).
Assessment of the current state and trend of other important values
Good
Stable
Geological research expeditions are regularly ongoing and being enhanced. Data collection is diverse and extensive, with measurements of surface geothermal temperature, GPS fixed points and deformation, 3D mapping of the island using aerial photography and caves using LiDAR. Considerable changes have been observed in the landforms since the last expedition. Considerable erosion has occurred in certain areas, both marine erosion along the coastline and wind and water erosion of tuff, and this will be better mapped with data from photogrammetric surveys. There have also been considerable changes to the spit in the northern part of the island. There is now a long beach on the eastern side, where there used to be a rocky beach (Icelandic Institute of Natural History, 2023).
Additional information
Contribution to education
Education and interpretation programmes aim to increase awareness of the importance of the Surtsey Nature Reserve and the measures taken to protect its natural heritage. Education programmes will provide the public with a comprehensive overview of the importance the Reserve and the rationale for managing it in a pristine condition.
Importance for research
Long-term continuous scientific research and monitoring in Sursey contribute to the understanding of environmental changes, at present and in the future. This includes research on how volcanic islands evolve, how ecosystems develop and how climate change and invasive species could negatively affect the isolated islands environment
Long-term continuous research and monitoring without any humans interaction inside the environment make it possible to follow the development and obtain any natural changes. However, humans activities outside the Reserve could definitely affect the island environment.
Education and interpretation programmes of Surtsey are important both inside and outside the local community. Long-term continuous scientific research and monitoring in Surtsey contribute to the understanding of environmental changes, at present and in the future.
References
| № | References |
|---|---|
| 1 |
All published research reports by the Surtsey Research Society all available at http://surtsey.is/pp_ens/write_ref_2.htm
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| 2 |
Eldheimar website (2020) <http://eldheimar.is/en/>;. Acessed August 2020
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| 3 |
Heimaey (2017). Cruise ships in Heimaey 2017. http://vestmannaeyjar.is/skrar/file/skemmtiferdaskip/copy_o…. Accessed July 2017
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| 4 |
IINH (2017). Icelandic Institute of Natural History Web site. News about the research expedition on Surtsey in July 2017 [Only available in Icelandic]. http://www.ni.is/frettir/2017/07/leidangur-jardfraedinga-og…. Accessed July 2017
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| 5 |
IUCN Consultation. (2020). IUCN Confidential Consultation- Surtsey, Iceland.
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| 6 |
Icelandic Met Office Web Site (2015). Jarðskjálftar í apríl 2015 (Earthquakes in April 2015). [Only available in Icelandic]. http://www.vedur.is/skjalftar-og-eldgos/frodleikur/greinar/…. Accessed July 2017
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| 7 |
Icelandic Nature Conservation Act (No. 60/2013) [Only available in Icelandic]. https://www.althingi.is/lagas/nuna/2013060.html. Accessed July 2017
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| 8 |
Jackson, M. D. (2014). ‘New Proposed Drilling at Surtsey Volcano, Iceland.’ Eos, Transactions American Geophysical Union, v. 95, issue 51, 23 December 2014. https://eos.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Jackson_Supporti…. Accessed July 2017
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| 9 |
Jackson, M.D., Gudmundsson, M.T., Bach, W., Cappelletti, P., Coleman, N. J., Ivarsson, M., Jónasson, K., Jørgensen, S. L., Marteinsson, V., McPhie, J., Moore, J. G., Nielson, D., Rhodes, J. M., Rispoli, C., Schiffman, P., Stefánsson, A., Türke, A., Vanorio, T., Weisenberger, T. B., White, J. D. L., Zierenberg, R., and Zimanowski, B. (2015). ‘Time-lapse characterization of hydrothermal seawater and microbial interactions with basaltic tephra at Surtsey Volcano.’ Sci. Dril., 20, 51–58, 2015 https://www.sci-dril.net/20/51/2015/sd-20-51-2015.pdf. Accessed July 2017
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| 10 |
MAGNÚSSON, S. H., WASOWICZ, P., & MAGNÚSSON, B. (2022). Vascular plant colonisation, distribution and vegetation development on Surtsey during 1965–2015. Surtsey Research, 15, 9-29.
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| 11 |
MP (2014). Surtsey verndar- og stjórnunaráæltun 2014 (Surtsey Management Plan 2014-2023). [Only available in Icelandic]. https://www.ust.is/library/Skrar/Einstaklingar/Fridlyst-sva…. Accessed July 2017
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| 12 |
Petersen Guðrún Nína and Trausti Jónsson (2020). The climate of Surtsey. Surtsey Research (2020) 14: 9-16. <https://surtsey.is/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Surtsey-2020_…; Acessed August 2020.
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| 13 |
Petersen, G. N., & Jónsson, T. (2020). The climate of Surtsey. Surtsey Research, 14, 9-16.
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| 14 |
Samarra, F. I., Selbmann, A., Aoki, K., & Miller, P. J. (2022). Observations of cetaceans in the waters of the Surtsey Nature Reserve between 2008 and 2021. Surtsey Research, 15, 89-96.
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| 15 |
Sigurdsson, B. D. and Stefánsdóttir, G. (2015). ‘Ecosystem CO2 flux rates in relation to vegetation type and age of Leymus arenarius dunes on Surtsey.’ Surtsey Research (2015) 13: 9–15 http://surtsey.is/SRS_publ/2015-XIII/high_res/1%20Surtsey%2…. Accessed July 2017
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| 16 |
State Party of Iceland (2007). Nomination of Surtsey for the UNESCO World Heritage List, 2007 http://surtsey.is/SRS_publ/WHL/Surtsey_Nomination_Report_20…
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| 17 |
State Party of Iceland (2024). Periodic Reporting Cycle 3, Section II: Surtsey. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1267/documents/
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| 18 |
Statement of Outstanding Universal Value (SoOUV 2008)
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| 19 |
Surtsey Expedition of the Icelandic Institute of Natural History (2023). Surtsey Expedition of the Icelandic Institute of Natural History 2023. Published online 23 July 2023. Available at: https://www.ni.is/is/frettir/2023/07/surtseyjarleidangur-na…
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| 20 |
Surtsey Expedition of the Icelandic Institute of Natural History (2024). Surtsey Expedition of the Icelandic Institute of Natural History 2024. Published online 22 July 2024. Available at: https://www.ni.is/is/frettir/2024/07/surtseyjarleidangur-li…
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| 21 |
Surtsey Island Biologists' Expedition (2024). Surtsey Island Biologists' Expedition 2024. Published online 22 July 2024. Available at: https://www.ni.is/is/frettir/2024/07/surtseyjarleidangur-li…
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| 22 |
Surtsey Research 12. Surtsey Research Society 2009 http://surtsey.is/pp_ens/report/report_XII.htm
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| 23 |
Surtsey Research Society (2013). Surtsey 50th Anniversary Conference, 2013. Programme and abstracts. http://surtsey.is/afm_50/Surtsey_ProgrammeAbstracts.pdf. Accessed July 2017
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| 24 |
Surtsey Research Society (2015). Surtsey Research 13. http://surtsey.is/pp_isl/skyrsla/skyrsla_XIII.htm. Accessed July 2017
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| 25 |
Surtsey Research Society (2020): Surtsey Research 14. <https://surtsey.is/surtsey-research-14-2020/>; Accessed August 2020.
|
| 26 |
Surtsey Research Society website http://surtsey.is/index_eng.htm
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| 27 |
Surtsey monument (2013). News on the web about the celebration. [Only available in Icelandic]. http://www.visir.is/g/2013706069911. Accessed July 2017
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| 28 |
Umhverfisstofnun (2024). Friðlandið Surtsey – Verk- og samráðsáætlun vegna gerðar stjórnunar- og verndaráætlunar. Umhverfisstofnun. Available at: https://ust.is/library/Skrar/nattura/fraedsludagskra2020/pd…
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| 29 |
Umhverfisstofnun, Samgöngustofa and Landhelgisgæsla Íslands (2024). Guidelines for masters of cruise and passenger ships arriving in Iceland, July 2024. Published by Umhverfisstofnun (Environment Agency of Iceland), Samgöngustofa (Icelandic Transport Authority) and Landhelgisgæsla Íslands (Icelandic Coast Guard). Available at: https://ust.is/library/sida/haf-og-vatn/Guidelines%20for%20…
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| 30 |
Witze, A. (2017). ‘Iceland drilling project aims to unearth how islands form’. Nature < http://www.nature.com/news/iceland-drilling-project-aims-to…;. Accessed July 2017
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