Directory of Eco-villages in Europe - Kennedy Bibliothek

Iceland
Selfoss
existing
eco-village
Solheimar
terials placed in compost which are then used as fertiliser; cardboard
paper is used in reforestation; paper is used to manufacture cards and
various handicrafts; excess candle wax is collected from individuals as
well as restaurants in Reykjavik and used to make new candles; old
clothing is utilised in weaving.
Today, about 65% of
waste products from Solheimar
are recycled on the
grounds, in addition to an
increasing amount of waste
from other sources that
is recycled to create products
of value.
Solheimar has developed
a broad-based range of
industries and activities, and include the following:
8 Olur Reforestation Centre - It is the only organic reforestation
centre in Iceland. It is currently around 120 hectares in size, where
there are grown 500.000 trees annually, of which 15.000 are planted
on Solheimar's own land.
• Sunna Nursery - Organic greenhouse cultivation: products include
tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers. Outdoor cultivation
includes potatoes, various types of cabbage and carrots. The
community could produce ample additional food by simply
building more greenhouses, and in fact, the construction of a
1300m 2 greenhouse has recently been completed.
• Vala Grocery & Art Gallery - Organic vegetables, manufactured
items as well as handicrafts and art pieces created by residents are
sold here, open daily during the summer.
• Candle making - Production is entirely handmade from beeswax
and recycled candles. Wax sculptures are also created.
• Farming - The community raises calves, chickens, goats and horses.
• Brekkukot guest accommodation is open all year, the two guest
houses have accommodation for up to 34 in made-up beds. There
are 7 single and 13 double rooms; eight rooms have private bath-