Icelandic Glacier Runs for President, Sparking Rights of Nature Movement – State of the Planet

In a global effort to protect glaciers from the impacts of climate change, concerned citizens have come up with innovative strategies, such as nominating a glacier for president. While the campaign to nominate Snæfellsjökull for president in Iceland did not succeed, it has sparked a movement for Rights of Nature in the country. The concept of providing legal personhood to natural features like glaciers is gaining traction worldwide, with nations like Ecuador, New Zealand, and the Yurok Tribe adopting such measures. Despite some challenges and controversy, these campaigns are crucial for protecting ecosystems from pollution and climate change. While the Snæfellsjökull campaign may have been seen as more of a performance, it has succeeded in raising awareness about the plight of glaciers and the urgent need for environmental action. With ongoing efforts to incorporate Rights of Nature into policy discussions and public debates, the legacy of Snæfellsjökull’s presidential campaign lives on in the fight for stronger protections for Iceland’s natural treasures.