Travel has always fascinated me because it changes the way we see the world. Experiencing another country, meeting people with different perspectives and adapting to unfamiliar environments are opportunities for personal growth that cannot be replicated in a classroom. However travel also raises an important ethical question about if exploring the world comes at the expense of the environment – what responsibility do we have as travellers?
I do not believe sustainability means avoiding travel altogether. Instead I think it requires travelling with intention. Every decision even a small one, reflects the kind of impact we choose to have. While a single reusable water bottle or one less car journey will not solve climate change, these habits become meaningful when adopted consistently by many people. Sustainability is less about perfection and more about recognising that our everyday actions have consequences beyond ourselves.
During my international placement, I reduced my environmental impact by making practical choices wherever possible; I chose to use public transport or walk instead of relying on private vehicles. I as well began to hoard re-usable items, such as a water bottle and shopping bags to reduce unnecessary waste and avoid single-use plastics. At my accommodation, I always switched of energy and water when they were not needed and only using the resources I actually needed.
These actions align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and Goal 13 (Climate Action). Although my individual contribution may be small though I believe collective progress depends on individuals making thoughtful choices. Travelling sustainably is ultimately an expression of respect for the people in the country and for the environment, for future generations and for the communities that welcome us.
International placements provide more than academic or professional experience; they remind us that we are part of a wider world. If travel broadens our perspective, then it should also broaden our sense of responsibility. I hope to return not only with new knowledge and skills, but also with the confidence that I travelled in a way that reflected those values.
References
United Nations. (2015) Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development -https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda
