The harbor in Akureyri is expecting a record number of cruise ships this summer, or around 280 visits. While the arrival of these vessels brings clear economic benefits through tourism and local spending, it also raises serious environmental concerns that cannot be ignored.

Cruise ships have been found to emit substantial amounts of air pollution, often visible as thick blue smoke that disperses into the fjord while the ships are docking and idling in the harbor, as shown in the picture taken this morning. These emissions contribute to poor air quality and place additional stress on the fragile ecosystem of the fjord and the surrounding community.

Although this pollution is not always clearly visible, today’s weather made the impact impossible to overlook. On an otherwise clear and beautiful day, it was both sad and alarming to see blue smoke spread across the fjord, marring the landscape and highlighting the scale of the problem.

Urgent action is needed to reduce emissions from cruise ships and to transition to renewable or cleaner energy sources, at the very least while these vessels are in port. Protecting the natural beauty and environmental health of Akureyri must be a priority alongside economic growth.