Sustainability Report

The visitor centre is currently in the BREEAM certification process and has achieved a post-construction score of 56.83 percent, which corresponds to a “Very Good” rating. The design was guided from the outset by BREEAM standards, using materials readily available on the Icelandic market.

Embodied carbon overview

A formal life cycle assessment (LCA) was not undertaken for embodied carbon. Fuel use, transport, and site operations were monitored and reported, allowing partial accounting of construction-phase CO2 emissions.

Material strategy:

• The building is largely constructed in timber, which stores carbon and offers long-term reuse potential.
• FSC-certified larch cladding (22 × 145 mm, band-sawn) was sourced from Bergsten Timber A/S. No surface treatments were applied, minimising chemical inputs and future maintenance.
• Stone wool insulation was supplied by Steinull hf., covered by EPD NEPD-1858-803-EN. Products used include Plötur 75, Veggplata, Múrplata, and Lamelluplötur. The insulation is non-combustible (A1) and designed for a 60+ year building lifetime.
• Hydro Aluminium flashings (alloy 5754 H22, 1 mm) provide durable weathering protection at junctions. While aluminium has a high embodied energy, its limited and strategic use contributes to extending the lifespan of the timber facade.

Operational emissions overview

• Energy supply: Heating is provided by a heat pump. All electricity is drawn from the Icelandic grid, which operates on 100 percent renewable energy (hydropower and geothermal).
• Environmental monitoring: Construction waste and operational inputs are tracked in line with BREEAM requirements. The centre is connected to its context via walking and cycling paths, reducing reliance on car access.

Untreated larch cladding is designed to weather naturally, avoiding ongoing coatings or chemical treatments.

Maintenance strategy: Materials were selected for durability and minimal upkeep, reducing replacement cycles and associated resource use.