Iceland moves forward with organic waste processing facility in Dysnes, Eyjafjörður

Icelandic authorities are moving forward with plans for an organic waste processing facility in Dysnes, located in Eyjafjörður. The facility, which will cost approximately 3 billion Icelandic króna, aims to tackle issues surrounding the disposal of harmful animal remains. Food Minister Bjarkey Olsen Gunnarsdóttir emphasized the urgency of this project, stating that Iceland can no longer afford to bury such waste.

The facility will specifically handle animal remains classified as high-risk, which have mostly been disposed of illegally. This initiative comes in response to a two-year-old ruling from the EFTA court concerning Iceland’s waste management practices. With government support, the construction of this facility is expected to begin next year, with operations set to commence in 2028.

The development of the plant is not only crucial for addressing legal demands but also aims to secure international certification for Icelandic food products. Minister Gunnarsdóttir pointed out that failing to comply could jeopardize Iceland’s food production and result in significant financial losses.

The first land parcel for the facility has already been allocated to Líforkuvers ehf., the company overseeing the project, which is situated within an industrial zone owned by the North Iceland Port Association. Work continues on foundational efforts for the processing facility, as well as establishing a nationwide waste collection system.

As the project progresses, local stakeholders remain optimistic about the facility’s potential to enhance Iceland’s waste management capabilities and contribute positively to the environment.