Sustaining Your Study Abroad: 12 Techniques
As inhabitants of our shared planet, it falls upon each of us to ensure the well-being of our homes. While tackling global climate change remains the task of governments and scientists, there are actionable measures within the grasp of ordinary individuals. These options extend even to our study abroad journeys and educational sojourns abroad.
The solution?
Embrace a mindset of locality, even when distant from home.
Outlined below are prime recommendations for imbuing your international study abroad venture with a positive impact on the environment.
Opt for Eco-Friendly Commuting
Maximize the use of public transportation within your new city or explore the possibilities of walking and cycling. Choosing accommodations near your study abroad campus minimizes the need for frequent travel.
Foster Sustainable Packing
Prepare your luggage with eco-consciousness, ensuring a sustainable lifestyle upon arrival. Ranging from selecting plastic-free essentials to sourcing eco-friendly toiletries, consult our guide on environmentally-conscious packing.
Engage in Volunteerism
Dedicating time to volunteer initiatives proves beneficial not only for the local community and your resume but also for the planet. Investigate nearby opportunities or those provided by your educational institution. Participate in activities like beach clean-ups to counter plastic pollution or join local nature projects to plant carbon-absorbing trees. Furthermore, involvement in community initiatives facilitates interaction with native speakers, enhancing language acquisition.
Discover Local Farmers Markets
The sustainability of our lifestyle heavily relies on the quality of what we consume. Strive to opt for organic, seasonal, and locally sourced food items that haven’t undergone energy-intensive journeys to your plate. Farmers markets stand as an excellent choice for acquiring fresh produce, sidestepping supermarkets. This approach also introduces you to a plethora of novel and delectable offerings.
Consider Vegetarianism
In the climate-consciousness race, vegetables emerge as the victors with the lowest carbon footprint. Experiment with a vegetarian diet, given that meat production involves greater land use and greenhouse gas emissions compared to vegetable cultivation. Often, meat is transported globally before reaching consumers. By reducing meat consumption or sourcing it from local farms, you contribute to sustainable living.
Embrace Local Culinary Experiences
Opting for indigenous restaurants during dining escapades yields manifold benefits. Not only do you patronize local businesses over larger, more polluting chains, but you also savour authentic culinary and cultural encounters. Seek recommendations from friends and host families for hidden culinary gems enriching your experience.
Select Environmentally-Friendly Destinations
Not all destinations share the same commitment to environmental consciousness. Some places ardently strive to adopt eco-friendly practices, and we’ve compiled a list of such locations.
also read- Study Abroad Journey, What Are The Essential Things Should You Be Aware Of
Explore Nearby Treasures
Embarking on a study abroad journey offers the ideal chance to explore new lands, even continents. While planning weekend getaways, consider nearby attractions and cities accessible between classes. Opting for study abroad destinations reachable by train or bus instead of air travel minimizes your carbon footprint. Europe, in particular, boasts robust rail networks powered by renewable energy, often offering a more enjoyable travel experience.
Be Mindful of the Details
Ensure that even the most minor aspects receive your attention. Refrain from leaving litter in natural reserves or historic locations, abstain from purchasing products derived from endangered animals, remember to carry a reusable water bottle, and practice concise showers to conserve water and energy – these seemingly minor actions accumulate to make a significant impact.
Foster Local Enterprises
Opt to support regional artisans and creators when seeking travel mementoes. These local crafts and artworks not only possess charm and distinctiveness but also channel your expenditure directly into the community, nurturing the sustainable growth of innovative individuals and businesses.
Engage in Dialogues with Friends
One of the most impactful avenues for effecting positive change is initiating discussions about environmental matters. While it might be manageable to regulate your own actions, the potential to inspire others towards similar choices could trigger a cascade effect, prompting numerous individuals to adopt more sustainable practices. Whether it involves preparing a vegetarian meal for your peers or inviting them to explore the local farmers’ market, every small effort contributes to the cause.
Extend Efforts to Your Home Environment
Upon your return, seize the opportunity to assess the viability of the sustainable practices you’ve embraced abroad within your home context. The utilization of public transportation, endorsement of local enterprises, consumption of seasonal foods – these actions can seamlessly transition into regular habits, perpetuating the positive impact you’ve fostered.
By incorporating these sustainability techniques into your study abroad journey, you can make a meaningful contribution to the environment and the local community. Your experience will be more enriching and socially responsible, leaving a positive impact on the destination you choose to call home for a semester or more.
