I come from a working class background and as a result international travel has never been something I have taken for granted. For much of my life, opportunities to travel abroad have felt distant or financially out of reach. This placement in China therefore represents not only a major personal opportunity, but also a responsibility to ensure that my experience is as sustainable and socially conscious as possible. I am deeply passionate about the values of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). I strongly believe that poverty alleviation and promoting socioeconomic development must happen in a way that protects the environment and safeguards our earth for future generations. Economic prosperity and sustainability should work in unison together, not against one another.
During my placement in China, I intend to make environmentally responsible choices wherever possible. China has one of the world’s most advanced high-speed rail systems, and I will prioritise travelling by train rather than taking domestic flights or relying on private vehicles. For everyday commuting, I plan to make use of the extensive public transport such as buses and metro systems instead of taxis or other ride-hailing services. I will also walk or cycle, which not only reduces emissions but also allows me to engage more closely with local communities and culture and better discover the places I will be travelling around.
I recognise that international travel inevitably creates a carbon footprint, particularly through long-haul flights. While I am aware of the environmental impact, as a student I am more focused on reducing my footprint through practical and conscious choices rather than methods such as financial offsetting. Before travelling, I will aim to minimise my impact by selecting the most direct flight routes where possible and travelling with minimal luggage. During my placement, I will adopt a low-waste and resource conscious approach by avoiding unnecessary printing, reducing consumption, and being mindful of energy and water use in accommodation.
Most importantly, I hope this experience will allow me to share what I learn with others from similar backgrounds who may feel that sustainable international travel is inaccessible to them. I want to demonstrate that even on a limited shoe-string budget, it is possible to travel responsibly and make environmentally conscious decisions that do not break the bank nor the earth. By aligning my placement with the principles of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, I hope to contribute in a small but meaningful way to a cleaner environment, greater global understanding and a more sustainable future. Thank you.
