Surtsey (Iceland)

Surtsey is a volcanic island off the coast of Iceland, formed in 1963 during a volcanic eruption. It emerged as lava and ash built up from the ocean floor to create new land. The island is significant for scientific research, as it provides a rare opportunity to study how ecosystems develop from scratch. Since its formation, it has been carefully protected and restricted from human activity to preserve its natural environment. Surtsey is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its importance for understanding geological processes and the early stages of life colonizing new land.