The first time I saw the jagged peaks of Patagonia reflected in glacial water, I understood something simple: travel is a privilege, but it is also a responsibility. Movement across borders gives us access to new landscapes, cultures and ideas, yet it inevitably leaves a footprint. Preparing for my international placement as a Market Analyst in Santiago, Chile has made me think more deeply about what it means to travel with intention rather than convenience.
Chile is a country defined by contrast: from the Atacama desert to the lakes and glaciers of Patagonia, its geography is both breathtaking and fragile. My personal love for Patagonia and skiing has always drawn me toward mountain environments, places where climate change is impossible to ignore. Shorter snow seasons, retreating glaciers and unpredictable weather patterns are not abstract headlines when you are standing in front of them. They are visible reminders that sustainability cannot be treated as a side project.
For this reason, I have approaches my placement with the mindset that sustainability show shape every stage of the journey not just what happens after arrival. Before travelling, I researches routs with lower environmental impact and prioritised direct flights where possible, understanding that take-off and landing generate the highest emissions. While air travel is unavoidable for an international placement reducing unnecessary layovers was one practical way to minimise impact.
Once in Santiago, I intend to embrace the city as a resident rather than a visitor passing through. Santiago has an extensive metro network and growing cycling infrastructure, making public transport and walking realistic daily options. Rather than relying on taxis or ride share services, I plan to use these systems consistently for commuting and exploring. This aligns closely with UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities, which promotes accessible and low-impact urban mobility.
As a Market Analyst, I believe sustainability is also professional. Markets increasingly reward businesses that adapt to environmental expectations, whether though circular economy models, responsible sourcing or emissions transparency. During my placement I hope to bring this perspective into my work by paying closer attention to how consumer trend and business strategies intersect with sustainability. This connects with UN SDG 12: responsible consumption and production, encouraging more efficient use of resources and reduced waste.
Beyond logistics and professional learning, I want this experience to deepen my relationship with nature in a respectful way. Skiing and hiking have always been central to how I connect with a place, but these activities depend on healthy ecosystems. Exploring Chile’s mountains and southern landscapes will not simply be recreation; it will be a reminder of why environmental conscious tours, respecting protected areas, and following leave-no-trace principles are ways I can ensure exploration does not come at the expense of preservation.
