Landbúnaður

Landbúnaður, literally “land agriculture,” is the Icelandic term for agriculture. It encompasses crop production, animal husbandry, and related land-based activities. Because Iceland's climate is cool and growing seasons are short, landbúnaður relies heavily on pasture, imported feed, and, increasingly, controlled environments for horticulture.

Crops and livestock: The domestic crop sector is small by global standards. The main crops are forage grasses for grazing and silage, with potatoes as a traditional staple. A growing share of vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce, is produced in heated greenhouse facilities driven by geothermal energy. Livestock farming centers on sheep, which provide meat and wool; dairy and beef cattle are common, and horses have historic cultural importance.

Technology and infrastructure: Greenhouses powered by geothermal energy and, in some cases, wind power, play a major role in year-round production. Modern nutrition, feed efficiency, breeding, and animal welfare practices are part of standard husbandry.

Economy and policy: Landbúnaður accounts for a relatively small share of Iceland's GDP and rural employment. Domestic production covers portions of dairy, meat, and vegetables, but most food remains imported. The government supports farming through subsidies, rural development programs, and land-use planning aimed at preserving landscapes and preventing erosion.

Environmental considerations and outlook: Sustainable land management, soil conservation, and biodiversity protection are priorities. Climate change, price volatility, and an aging farming population pose challenges, but advances in greenhouse technology, genetics, and logistics are expected to shape the sector's adaptation and resilience.