One Person’s Difference: Golden Falls, Iceland
We started Sekoyia because we believe one person’s decision to live more sustainably can change the world. Sometimes, we just need a little reminder of the power of our decisions, here is just one incredible example.
Way back in the 19th century, before ‘sustainable living’ was a trend, Sigríður Tómasdóttir set out to preserve a waterfall close to her home. Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls” is a massive waterfall that Sigríður and her sisters loved to guide visitors around. When she was young, her father was approached by investors who wanted to use the falls for hydroelectric power. Her father refused by saying, “I do not sell my friends”. Sigríður and her family were not billionaire philanthropists; they did not have an instruction book for ‘how to save a waterfall’ — all they had was their love for that waterfall.
Sigríður had a passion for saving her world and set out to keep it amazing with action. She spent countless hours walking or riding on horseback to fight against Iceland’s leaders to protect Gullfoss. After her final threat to throw herself into the falls should they begin developing, her hard work had finally proven successful. In 1979, Gullfoss became a National Park and is protected by the government.
Sigríður and her fight to save Gullfoss was an inspiration at the turn of the 20th century, and it still is today. She is now regarded as Iceland’s first environmentalist and is memorialized in sculpture at the falls.
If you ever find yourself in Iceland, be sure to stop and see the “Golden Falls”.
Still frozen in late winter here, Gullfoss is amazing at any time of year.
Late winter rains and sunshine reveal the volcanic landscape beneath the snow
Sekoyia Action Challenge: Find the nearest waterfall or scenic river near you, and make a plan to see it!
https://www.worldwaterfalldatabase.com/map
If you want to explore some amazing landscapes like the waterfalls above and cities that happen to be powered by volcanoes, we highly recommend a trip to Iceland.
https://www.inspiredbyiceland.com
A little extra for all your work to scroll down here…A joke the Icelandic locals love to tell us, tourists.
Local Viking: What do you do when you are lost in an Icelandic forest?
Tourist: Oh my, that could be so cold in the winter? I don’t know.
Local Viking: Stand up
Do you know of any inspiring stories of individuals making a difference? We’d love to hear about it! Write to us at Grove@sekoyia.com
Learn more about Sekoyia and how you can #LeadWithYourLifestyle at www.sekoyia.com
