Red Zone Reflections: How Studying Abroad in Valencia Changed My View on Sustainability
When I boarded the plane from the UK to Valencia, I was excited yet nervous. As a 20-year-old business student, studying abroad was a chance to grow. But as the plane ascended, I wondered: How will this experience shape my perspective?
Before arriving, I hadn’t thought much about sustainability. Valencia, one of Europe’s greenest cities, has parks like Jardín del Turia and bike-friendly streets. I assumed sustainability was already a priority here. But daily, I noticed the pollution indicator was often in the red. That red zone became a constant reminder that even celebrated cities face environmental challenges.
My awareness deepened through other reminders. One day, the city was hit by unexpected flooding. I saw low clouds swirling and intense winds knocking over unsecured scaffolding. Over the next few days, heavy rains continued. These were not just weather events; they were signs of environmental instability. I saw firsthand how these disruptions affected people’s livelihoods, with homes and businesses damaged, and communities coping with the aftermath. Climate issues aren’t distant; they have real and immediate effects on people’s lives.
One of the most profound lessons came not from a storm, but from stillness. The city lost power. Without phones, metro services, or traffic lights, everything came to a standstill. Yet, the city came alive. People helped one another. Radios played. Friends and strangers gathered at local bars, laughing, dancing, and enjoying each other’s company. It was quiet, peaceful, and reminded me of the power of human connection.
This moment shifted my view on sustainability. Change doesn’t always come through grand gestures. It often starts with small, everyday choices. Since then, I’ve made conscious decisions to live more sustainably: walking, cycling, using public transport, shopping locally, and embracing thrift shops over fast fashion. Sustainability has become a mindset, a lens through which I view all my choices.
Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, I aim to reduce my carbon footprint and promote sustainable living. By choosing eco-friendly transport, supporting local businesses, and reducing waste, I strive to make a positive impact during my international placement. These small actions contribute to a global effort for more sustainable communities, and I’m committed to carrying this mindset forward in my life and career.
Ultimately, my time in Valencia taught me that sustainability is not just about actions but also about how we think. Real change often starts with noticing the red zone on a weather app, asking questions, or sharing a moment during a blackout. These are the moments that inspire lasting change.
Written by Luka Reeves
3rd year Nottingham Trent University student
Student ID: N1069253
N1069253@ntu.ac.uk
