My name is Lucía, and I am a Spanish Erasmus student. Next academic year, I will be studying at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. I have identified three measures that I can take to make my Erasmus experience more sustainable.
First of all, I have thought about limiting my air travel. During my Erasmus year, I only plan to take two flights: one from Santiago de Compostela to Aberdeen at the beginning of my exchange, and one back home at the end of it. Instead of flying home whenever I have free time, I will try to stay in Scotland and find a part-time job. This would help me become more involved with the local community, improve my English and gain valuable work experience. By staying in the United Kingdom during holiday periods, I will have more opportunities to experience everyday life in a different country instead of simply visiting it as a tourist.
Secondly, I will try to minimise my use of transport as much as possible in my daily life. I intend to walk or cycle to university, library and local shops whenever I can, instead of moving by car or bus. In addition, walking and cycling will help me to know the city better.
Thirdly, when exploring Scotland, I will travel by train or bus rather than by plane or car, so I can visit many places while polluting less.
I believe that these small choices will allow me to make the most of my Erasmus experience while reducing my environmental impact as much as possible. Using public transport will allow me to explore the country while reducing unnecessary emissions.
