From Iceland — Suðureyri Oil Spill Is Being Cleaned, But Area Still Polluted

Suðureyri Oil Spill Is Being Cleaned, But Area Still Polluted

Published March 11, 2022

Photo by
John Rogers

The damage from the oil spill that occurred last week at Suðureyri is being cleaned, RÚV reports. It is believed that soil pollution is not as bad as expected.

You can now order First Lady of Iceland Eliza Reid’s new book from our store! Of course, you will also get a copy of the latest issue of The Reykjavík Grapevine with it, where you can find the highly interesting interview with the author.

An oil spill occurred last Thursday at the in-ground oil tank located uphill from a swimming pool and a primary school in Suðureyri.

Reportedly, the 9,000-liter spill has already reached the pond and the harbour. Employees of Orkubús Vestfjarðar are now working to clear out the area, using special devices as well as things such as pool noodles and mats that suck the oil out of the water.

As reported earlier, a number of rare eider ducks have been affected by the oil spill. Residents of Suðureyri have also been asked to refrain from going outside to avoid odor pollution. 

Even though the pond and the harbour have been affected, the oil didn’t go deep into the ground, so the soil surrounding the tank is not as polluted as feared.

Support The Reykjavík Grapevine!
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!

Show Me More!