Sustainability hasn’t always been my focus, but this study abroad opportunity has prompted me to reflect on how I can make meaningful, conscious changes. I’ll be spending two months in Hong Kong contributing to a research project at CUHK that investigates how environmental exposure like urban noise, light pollution and access to green spaces, affect the mental health of nurses. This directly supports UN Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Hong Kong is a vibrant, high-density city facing major sustainability challenges including high levels of air pollution and a heavy reliance on single-use plastics. I’ve been preparing by researching eco-conscious behaviours I can realistically implement. I’ll bring a glass water bottle, reusable utensils and tote bags to drastically reduce my plastic consumption, especially since Hong Kong averages over 2,000 tones of plastic waste per day. If I use my bottle daily, I could avoid up to 120 single-use bottles in just two months.
The city’s public transport system, particularly the MTR and trams, makes low emission commuting both efficient and accessible. While cycling isn’t practical due to my placement’s location on the outskirts, I plan to walk for short distances. Using apps like City Mapper will help me plan routes in advance and avoid resorting to taxis unnecessarily.
Of course, my flight to Hong Kong is my most carbon-heavy choice, with emissions estimated at 3,437 kg CO2, which is over two times the annual emissions budget per person. While I can’t undo the impact, I’ve chosen one long-term placement rather than multiple shorter trips and I’m committed to offsetting 100% of these emissions through Atmosfair, which supports individual users rather than just large corporations.
As someone on a tight student budget, I want to be honest: I’ll spread the financial cost of this offset. I plan to cover 50% before my departure, then 25% during my trip and the remaining 25% after returning, allowing me to contribute meaningfully without financial strain. I believe that sustainability should be accessible, not performative.
I’ve also adopted smaller, lasting habits. I recently started using the Too Good To Go app, which rescues excess food from local cafés and restaurants. I plan to continue this in Hong Kong, where food waste is a growing issue. It’s affordable, reduces emissions and supports UN Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Hong Kong’s fast fashion scene is tempting, but I plan to explore second-hand and local stores instead. One specific thrift store I’m excited to visit is Mee & Gee, which has been highly recommended for its affordable and unique finds. I’ll also be journalling my habits and progress, not only to reflect but to track their impact. On my return, I aim to share my experiences through a student led talk, demonstrating how sustainability and science can complement one another.
By choosing to live and research more sustainably, I hope to not only grow as a student but as a more mindful global citizen.
