When I began my year abroad at Waseda University in Tokyo, I recognised that travelling from the United Kingdom to Japan would have an environmental impact. Rather than ignoring this reality, I made it my goal to ensure that my everyday life in Japan reflected a commitment to sustainability. My experience has shown me that sustainable travel is not defined by one decision, but by the habits we build throughout our journey.
Japan’s approach to urban living has deepened my understanding of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Tokyo demonstrates how efficient public infrastructure can reduce reliance on cars and support a lower-carbon lifestyle. Seeing this in practice has encouraged me to think more critically about the relationship between cities, transport, and the environment.
To reduce my own environmental impact, I purchased a bicycle and cycle to university whenever possible. While Tokyo’s public transport system is already environmentally efficient, cycling allows me to reduce emissions further while promoting a healthier lifestyle. During my travels to Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hakone, I also relied on Japan’s rail network rather than more carbon-intensive alternatives, demonstrating how sustainable infrastructure can support both tourism and environmental responsibility.
My commitment to sustainability extends beyond transport. Tokyo’s recycle shops introduced me to a culture of reuse that I had not previously experienced on such a scale. Instead of buying new household goods and clothing, I regularly purchased second-hand items, helping to extend the life cycle of existing products and reduce unnecessary consumption. This directly reflects the goals of SDG 12.
One of the most meaningful lessons from my year abroad came from an unexpected source: embroidery. What began as a creative hobby became a way to repair, customise, and reuse fabric rather than discard it. This experience changed the way I think about clothing. Instead of viewing worn items as waste, I learned to see them as opportunities for creativity and renewal. Sustainability is often associated with large-scale policies, but embroidery taught me that environmental responsibility can also begin with a needle and thread.
I have also adopted simple everyday habits, including carrying a reusable water bottle, using reusable shopping bags, and reducing unnecessary purchases. To guide these choices, I have used resources such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals website, Google Maps, Japan Travel by NAVITIME, JR East route planners, and local Tokyo recycling guides.
My year abroad has shown me that sustainability is most effective when it becomes part of daily life. By combining sustainable transport, responsible consumption, and creative reuse, I have worked to ensure that my placement contributes positively to both the local environment and the wider goals of a more sustainable future.
