Perlan’s Approach to Social & Environmental Responsibility

At Perlan, we welcome everyone to explore and enjoy Icelandic nature while learning why it matters. We work to run the museum responsibly, always looking for ways to cut our carbon footprint, use energy wisely, and reduce waste.

Perlan - Wonders of Iceland connects science and society. Through exhibitions, experiences, and education for both visitors and staff, we help build environmental awareness and encourage responsible stewardship. We believe people are more likely to protect what they know and understand and in doing so, become advocates for better practices and the sustainable use of natural resources, supporting a healthier future.

We aim to lead by example. Our core values are education, entertainment, awareness, care, and respect. Sustainability is part of how we operate and make decisions, considering environmental, social, and cultural impacts.

Perlan offers a space to explore the past, present, and future of Iceland’s natural wonders through the lens of science. We share scientific perspectives and encourage informed, thoughtful conversations about environmental issues. We hope every visit inspires action because the future of coming generations is shaped by the decisions we make today.

Sustainability is Perlan’s guiding principle and a key part of our long-term planning. We use the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a framework to guide priorities, action, and continuous improvement.

Perlan and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Nature (SDGs 4, 12, 13, 14, 15)

At Perlan - Wonders of Iceland, all exhibitions are dedicated to showing our guests the beauty and importance of our natural resources. It’s a learning laboratory where visitors explore Icelandic nature through science and human perception. Visitors learn about Icelandic glaciers and the geological history of Iceland, get introduced to the country’s flora and fauna, and feel the powerful forces that shape the island.

We also address the realities of climate change why it matters, how it affects our planet, and why action is needed. In our Ice Cave, we preserve a small piece of Ok-glacier as a reminder that glaciers are disappearing. 

What we do:

• Educate guests about Icelandic nature and environmental protection
• Encourage visitors to care for nature and take action
• Reuse and repurpose materials wherever possible
• Sort waste for recycling
• Reduce paper use and printed marketing
• No longer print museum brochures
• Replace single use packaging with more environmentally responsible alternatives
• Use QR codes and the Perlan website to share key visitor information

Community (SDGs 4, 9, 11, 13)

Perlan – Wonders of Iceland, aims to create a positive impact locally and globally. We do our best to build partnerships that support sustainability and the well-being of nature and people. We welcome school groups throughout the year, maintain a strong relationship with the University of Iceland, and support local events and clean-up initiatives.

We believe everyone should have opportunities to learn about Iceland’s natural wonders and why they must be protected. Perlan has collaborated with organizations including Seeds, the Directorate of Immigration, Kraftur, and Help Ukraine.

What we do:

• Host and take part in environmental events (e.g., #storiplokkdagurinn)
• Offer educational events for employees and the local community
• Support social organizations, ICE-SAR rescue teams, and local schools with gift certificates and grants

Employment (SDGs 3, 4, 5, 8, 10)

Perlan is built on a diverse, international team. We respect employees’ rights and work to maintain a healthy, safe, and pleasant workplace.

What we provide:

• Safety and emergency first-response training
• Environmental protection and sustainable tourism knowledge
• Grants for Icelandic lessons
• Grants for job-related courses and skills development
• Access to support via the Icelandic Centre for Treatment of Anxiety Disorders (when needed)
• Healthy food options in the staff kitchen
• Clear guidelines addressing bullying, harassment, and violence
• Psychosocial support through routine check-ins and effective communication
• Professional growth pathways, including development opportunities for junior staff

A free flow of ideas is essential to our work. Perlan collaborates with artists and partners worldwide, creating a platform for cross-cultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect.

Gender Equality (SDGs 5, 10)

Everyone should have equal opportunities to develop their talents, regardless of gender identity.

What we do:

• Work toward equal opportunities for all genders
• Ensure equal pay for the same role across all genders
• Encourage applicants of all genders to apply for jobs at Perlan
• Support work life balance for everyone, regardless of gender

Food Waste (SDG 12)

Food waste is a major global challenge. It is commonly estimated that at around one-third of food produced for human consumption is wasted. 

What we do:

• Encourage guests to take leftovers home in eco friendlier packaging
• Integrate food waste measurement into operations as a long-term project
• Recycle used cooking oil and grease
• Make unsold items available in the staff kitchen to reduce waste

Electricity (SDG 7)

Iceland produces almost all its electricity from renewable sources primarily hydropower and geothermal energy. 

What we do:

• Guest EV charging stations have been installed in collaboration with ON Power and the City of Reykjavík
• Support low-emission mobility options nearby (e.g., HOPP e-scooters and electric car sharing)
• Continue a long-term transition to LED lighting

Water (SDG 6)

Icelandic tap water is widely regarded as high quality and is generally safe to drink. The country´s water supply is sourced from glaciers and underground springs and undergoes minimal treatment before distribution, making it safe for consumption straight from the tap.

What we do:

• Use environmentally certified products and minimize chemicals entering wastewater
• Encourage staff and guests to refill reusable bottles with tap water instead of buying bottled water