Some of my earliest and most fond memories are of the ocean. Growing up in Durban South Africa and later the Isle of Man, the coastline has always been a constant presence in my life, helping shape my view of my responsibility towards the environment. This connection led me to take part in beach clean up initiatives through the Manx program Beach Buddies during high school. Working hands on at Fenella beach not only gave me invaluable experience of the impact that litter and plastic pollution have on coastal ecosystems but it also demonstrated how everyday choices and community action can collectively reduce environmental harm.
Preparing for an international exchange has reinforced my awareness that intercontinental travel inevitably carries an ecological footprint. With that being said the focal point should be to minimise that impact. Although I cannot eliminate the environmental impact of travelling overseas, I intend to ensure my time abroad contributes positively through volunteering, so during my exchange at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, I will volunteer through initiatives like the Great Lakes CleanUP Collaborative which would give me an opportunity to help aid the protection of freshwater ecosystems while engaging with the community.
Volunteering aside, I do whole heartedly believe sustainable travel is shaped by the decisions we make everyday. During my time in Champaign, I plan to make active decisions that reduce my environmental impact. For example, taking the train from Champaign to Chicago when on commute to do volunteering work. In addition, carrying reusable water bottles or using bags for life when doing grocery runs. I can also recognise that responsible travel isn’t limited to protecting the environment but also contributing positively to the local business and communities, so I hope to help support the area around me.
These actions reflect my commitment to the UN sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13: Climate Action. I understand that no international journey is without an environmental impact, I believe that approaching this challenge with awareness and responsibility allows us to reduce our footprint whilst still benefiting from the invaluable educational and cultural opportunities that international exchange can provide.
