Prospects in Balneology to Boost the Economy and Employment of Rural NE Iceland

In NE Iceland there are ample geothermal resources both high temperature and low temperature geothermal fields as well as boiling low-temperature or medium enthalpy resources. It is of utmost importance not to waste the energy even where the resources are ample and cascade use of the energy is desirable. Many of the high-temperature fields in the area are now being harnessed for electricity production and balneological projects seem to be an ideal target to utilize the effluent water. High-temperature waters offer the possibility of the production of varied water types for bathing and treatment. Most of the water in the lowtemperature fields in NE Iceland is fresh and not specified as any health water type. This kind of water still seems to be desirable for use in balneotheraphy. Some of the low temperature geothermal waters in the area have similar chemical characteristics as waters in renowned foreign spas. Some of those waters have already proved to be effective in the treatment of skin diseases as psoriasis and also rheumatism. Besides the geothermal water in the area there can be pointed out many other fundamental attributes in the area for the building up of spas. some of which are also based on geothermal utilization: • Potable water in ample quantities of good quality, but of varying chemical composition • Fresh air • Locally produced fresh food, fish, lamb and agricultural products • Very good health service and a high tech hospital • Long experience of using geothermal water for rehabilitation of invalid and elderly people • Many municipal swimming pools • Good general service and transport • An international airport • Multiform recreation and relaxation opportunities The project is a part of a more general survey of new opportunities for increased employment in the area and diagnosis of market opportunities and possible business projects in connection with increased utilization of geothermal resources.