Just three weeks left before I head off to the University of Kansas.
I really should be stressing over packing and getting everything ready. But today, I’m thinking about something bigger. How can I make this experience better for the planet?
It hit me when I found out that my flight’s carbon footprint was 1.2 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide. That’s more than some people emit in an entire year. I couldn’t just ignore it. So I booked the most direct flight and decided to limit my return journeys back home. While I’m in the US, I’ve decided not to take any domestic flights. If I need to travel, I’m going to use buses or trains instead. Being mindful about my travel is one way I can make up for my impact on the environment.
The US isn’t renowned for its public transport, but KU has an electric bus system for students. I’m planning to purchase a bike when I get there. These aren’t perfect solutions, but action is better than inaction.
I’ll also try to be more responsible with my consumption. I will be using my reusable water bottle and coffee cup, and I’m determined to avoid disposable plastics. It turns out KU has refill stations all over campus and even a Free Store where students share clothes.
Food waste has been on my mind too. I’m a user of the Too Good To Go app, which helps save unsold food from going to waste. Thankfully, it’s available in the US too, so I plan to keep using it. It’s a great way to reduce food waste, save money and support local businesses.
I’ll do my bit to make my host city a better place too. KU’s Centre for Sustainability runs events like community garden volunteering and creek clean-ups. I’m looking forward to getting involved. Both to give back and to meet people like me who care about these issues.
