Icelandic Volcanoes’ New Purpose? To Help Power UK Cars

While the pearly waters of Iceland’s major tourist attraction, the Blue Lagoon, is a pleasant place to bathe and gaze across, the hot geothermal water is actually the result of an accidental spew by the nearby Svartsengi Geothermal Power Station. The Blue Lagoon is essentially waste water from the plant, powered by a nearby volcanic system, whose hot water and energy supplies the surrounding communities as well as a new beneficiary, UK cars.

While most carbon dioxide is released directly into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, Svartsengi Geothermal Power Station diverts its gaseous waste through a pipeline that goes to a small plant called Carbon Recycling International, where it gets turned into methanol. Later, two metal containers carrying 23,000 litres of methanol arrive in the UK where it is blended with gasoline. The CRI’s head of business development says it is enough to power 40 cars for a year, a relatively small amount, however, this small amount contributes to the overall reduction of Europe’s carbon footprint. With more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere now than ever before, the UN’s latest review warned that many nations’ efforts to keep the Earth’s temperature below the two degree increase target was far from being met, a challenge laid out in the 2015 Paris accord which aimed to overcome climate change.

Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
The UK plans to create 15 percent of all of its energy needs via renewable resources by 2020. Iceland’s, although tiny, carbon recycling plant is contributing to this effort, and possibly more countries in the future. Iceland’s CRI is not the only company making efforts to decarbonise fuels. Other companies such as Carbon Engineering in the US and ClimeWorks in Switzerland are also capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, all with little government support, proving that making fuel from a renewable energy source is viable.
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!


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