Reykjavík Naturally
Resource for everyone
 When arriving in Reykjavík, make sure that the first thing you do is
enjoy a glass of cold water. One taste and you’ll sense that Iceland is
the land of freshness.
Water is one of the world’s most important natural resources, and
people are now beginning to understand that this resource is limited.
Oceans account for 96.5% of all water, while fresh water accounts for
only 2.5%. Of these fresh-water reserves, 68.6% is in the form of polar
ice, while only 1.3% of the world’s fresh water is active in the
hydrologic cycle of evaporation/transpiration, condensation and
precipitation.
Iceland – the land of water
Iceland has one of the largest reserves of fresh water in the world, and the country is sparsely populated so pollution levels are extremely low. Water, therefore, in its natural environment throughout the country is safe for drinking. The most important use of water in Iceland apart from drinking – is in the production of electricity, both from fresh and thermal sources. These are renewable energy sources that do not cause pollution. Inexpensive electrical energy production has become one of Iceland’s most valuable resources.
In association with foreign scientists and companies, plans are currently being formulated to begin production of hydrogen in Iceland. A pollution-free form of energy, hydrogen production in Iceland will primarily be utilized as fuel in vehicles and vessels. The aim is for Iceland to become the world’s first hydrogen based community, which will result in the country being virtually free of pollution.
Champagne of the North
When American scientists analyzed water from Reykjavík, they thought there was something wrong with their instruments: the water was so pure that they couldn’t detect any pollution. This is not really unusual since the water in Reykjavík originates from Gvendarbrunnar Spring, named after a Catholic bishop who in Iceland was believed to be a holy man. At the very least the water is extremely fresh and pure, and wonderful for drinking. It has received ISO-9001 certification, so it is no surprise that the water in Reykjavík is called Champagne of the North.
Quality of life
One of Reykjavík’s features is its purity: fresh air and pure drinking water, and then there is the country’s wholesome, natural food. The average life span among Icelanders is very high, and Icelandic men enjoy the world’s longest life span. The nation’s good health can be traced in part to low pollution levels and fresh water. Water is now exported from Reykjavík to various markets where its popularity is growing steadily, and this water runs fresh from Reykjavík faucets, playing its role in keeping residents healthy. When you visit Reykjavík, drink water to your heart’s desire, after all it is Champagne of the North.
Medicinal power of water
Warm Thermal Pools and Baths are found throughout Iceland, filled with 84°F thermal water. There are seven thermal pools and baths in Reykjavík, and you haven’t really experienced the city until you have tried one of them. And best of all, the entrance fee is less than 4 USD. Alongside the pools are hot pots kept at various temperatures, as well as massage pots and steam baths. Thermal water has positive effects on the body; among them it softens aching muscles and limbers up stiff joints. Bathing and swimming in thermal water also has beneficial effects on people suffering from heart and lung ailments, and reduces stress. In addition, the hot pots are great places to meet people, join in discussions and get a bit of insight into the national soul. It’s said that one really doesn’t know the Icelanders until having shared a hot pot with them.
Orkuveita Reykjavíkur
Orkuveita Reykjavíkur is a company that provides the people of Greater Reykjavík with fresh water, geothermal water and electricity. If you would like to know more, visit their website: www.or.is
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