My name is Anjolaoluwa Akintunde, a student of accounting and finance with the exciting opportunity to study for a year abroad at Lancaster University, UK. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to experience a different educational system and teaching style, as I will be exposed to different learning approaches and teachers to help enhance my understanding of accounting and finance.
I am writing to share my thoughts on travel and sustainability and state measures I intend to take to promote eco-friendly travel and contribute to a cleaner environment. Travelling provides the opportunity for a person to be introduced to different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. However, the increase in international travel can negatively affect the environment, leading to risks such as climate change, pollution, and more; therefore, it is the responsibility of everyone to protect the world we all live in. As an international student, I aim to ensure that my actions promote the protection of the environment and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, more importantly Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, Goal 13: Climate Action, and Goal 14: Life Below Water. These include aiming to reduce pollution and carbon emissions, reducing waste, and preserving resources.
I recognize air travel negatively affects the environment by causing carbon emissions. Although it is inevitable as an international student to use flights, I would ensure I try to use direct flights to avoid unnecessary carbon emissions. Also, I would ensure I use more sustainable methods of transport, such as walking and public transport, which will also allow me to experience the community culturally and promote sustainability.
I will consume responsibly by reducing waste, which includes making necessary purchases and choosing products that can be recycled. I will support businesses that are socially responsible and I will use water and energy wisely by being mindful of my consumption to avoid waste. I will also ensure meals I eat are locally sourced and don’t negatively impact on the environment, such as harming marine life or causing pollution or waste that affects the aquatic body. I would endeavor to volunteer at events that promote socially responsible actions such as charity events, clean-up events, and more.
In conclusion, international travel provides great academic opportunities; however, it is also important to remember to ensure that we protect the community. I believe that studying abroad is not just about academic opportunities but also a chance to make positive impact to people and the environment so I aim to be socially responsible and promote it, not just vocally but by actions as well, as a norm to encourage others. Through our actions, we can make more sustainable choices in different aspects such as food, transport, resources, and more. I aim to ensure my stay will be environmentally responsible to help contribute to a cleaner environment and ensure that I leave a positive impact, so it carries a message that our every action makes a meaningful difference.
https://sdgs.un.org/goals
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