The educational video series "Isle of Fire | Lessons in Volcanic Hazard Management from Heimaey to Grindavik" has brought together leading volcano experts and Icelandic communities. Developed by Time for Geography, the series offers a 50-year perspective on the 1973 eruption on Heimaey island in southwest Iceland, a significant event in volcanic hazard management.
Dr. Rhian Meara from Swansea University, who co-authored and presented the series, emphasized the university's commitment to impactful research: “Swansea University’s involvement in Isle of Fire highlights our commitment to pioneering research that has real-world impact.” Dr. Meara expressed gratitude for working with experts and the local community to bring this case study to life.
The project includes insights from several experts such as Professor Janine Kavanagh (University of Liverpool), Dr. Marc Reichow (University of Leicester), and Drs. Jane Boygle and Iestyn Barr (Manchester Metropolitan University). They demonstrate modern techniques in eruption reconstruction and forecasting amid current volcanic activity on the Reykjanes peninsula.
Dr. Rob Parker, director of Time for Geography, noted the project's success due to contributions from volcanologists, hazards experts, and those who experienced the eruption firsthand: “The key to this project was the invaluable contributions of a unique collaboration... This enabled us to bring the events and their scientific significance to life on screen.”
The series has been recognized nationally with awards such as:
- Geographical Association 2025 Silver Publishers Award for advancing geography education.
- Geographical Association 2025 Highly Commended Publishers Award for inspiring a virtual student conference.
- Scottish Association of Geography Teachers 2024 Resource Award for its impact on geography education in Scotland.
This open-access series was supported by partners including Rayburn Tours, which led an intensive filming campaign capturing the geography of Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. Dr. Meara acknowledged local support: “We would like to thank the community of Vestmannaeyjabær for their fantastic support... It has been a privilege to help bring Heimaey’s story to life for a new generation.”