Travelling allows people to learn about new cultures and perspectives; however, it also comes with a responsibility to minimize our environmental impact.
One thing that excites me about studying in the UK is its extensive rail network. In Canada, travelling between cities by train is often less practical because our rail system is not as developed. Therefore, I rarely have the opportunity to use rail transportation when travelling. During my exchange, I hope to explore as much of the UK as possible and its railway network will help me do just that. It will give me the opportunity to visit different parts of the country that I might not otherwise have the chance to see, while also providing a more environmentally friendly way to travel.
Additionally, I plan to purchase a second-hand bicycle when I arrive and use it to commute to campus and around the city. Coming from Montreal, where cycling is a popular way to get around, biking has become a regular part of my daily life. I enjoy it because it helps me relax while staying active and I would love to continue this habit abroad. I appreciate that cycling gives me the opportunity to slow down, enjoy the scenery and notice things that I would otherwise miss. A second-hand bicycle would also be a simple way for me to reduce waste and make use of something that already exists.
Another measure I plan to take is to support local businesses whenever possible. Many local businesses work with nearby suppliers, which means that products often travel shorter distances and therefore reduce transportation-related emissions. I also believe local businesses are what give a city its unique charm and character. In my experience, some of the most memorable parts of travelling come from discovering cafés, bakeries and markets that reflect the culture of a place. They often provide a more authentic glimpse into everyday life. By choosing to support them, I can encourage more local and sustainable ways of doing business while helping local entrepreneurs continue their craft.
Not only do I want to develop new habits while abroad but I would also want to maintain my current ones at home. In Canada, I contribute by sorting waste, recycling and composting. Since these habits are embedded into my daily routine, I will continue practicing them during my exchange in the United Kingdom. For me, sustainability is built through small everyday choices. While actions such as properly sorting waste or picking up litter may seem small, they can still have a positive impact on the communities around us.
While I know that I don’t have all the answers and understand that no one can completely eliminate their environmental impact, I believe that making conscious choices every day can make a difference. I hope my time in the UK will help me discover new ways to live more sustainably while allowing me to experience a new culture and perspective.
References:
Responsible Consumption and Production
https://sdgs.un.org/topics/sustainable-consumption-and-production
Sustainable transport
https://sdgs.un.org/topics/sustainable-transport
