Travel is one of the most valuable ways to learn about people, culture and global issues, but it also comes with a responsibility to reduce its environmental impact. As a Civil/Environmental Engineering and Geospatial Science student, I am particularly aware that travel contributes to carbon emissions, resource use and waste. However, I also believe that international education can support sustainability when it is approached thoughtfully, because it encourages global understanding, knowledge-sharing and long-term commitment to solving environmental challenges.
For my international placement at the University of Leeds, I intend to make sustainable choices before, during and after my exchange. As I will be travelling from Brisbane to the United Kingdom, I recognise that a long-haul flight is unavoidable. To reduce the impact where possible, I will prioritise efficient flight routes with fewer unnecessary stopovers, pack lightly to reduce excess weight, and consider reputable carbon offset options linked to verified environmental projects. Once in the UK and Europe, I plan to rely mainly on public transport, walking, cycling and rail travel rather than short-haul flights or private cars. Leeds has strong public transport and cycling options, and I intend to use these as my main way of moving around day-to-day.
My approach also aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 13: Climate Action. Studying overseas will allow me to learn from different approaches to infrastructure, urban planning and environmental management, which I can bring back into my studies and future career in engineering and sustainability. I see this exchange not only as a personal opportunity, but as a chance to develop skills that can contribute to cleaner, more resilient communities.
On a practical level, I intend to reduce waste by carrying a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, shopping bags and food containers. I will avoid unnecessary single-use plastics, buy groceries locally where possible, and support businesses that show clear sustainability practices. I also plan to purchase second-hand household items and clothing during my stay rather than buying everything new. When travelling, I will choose accommodation with responsible environmental practices where possible and be mindful of energy and water use.
I also want to promote eco-friendly travel by encouraging friends and other exchange students to make low-impact choices, such as taking trains for weekend trips, sharing resources, and planning travel more carefully instead of making frequent short flights. My goal is to enjoy the cultural and educational benefits of exchange while being conscious of the environmental footprint that comes with it.
Overall, sustainability is not about avoiding travel completely, but about making responsible decisions, reducing avoidable impacts, and using the experience to build a stronger commitment to environmental action. Through my international placement, I hope to represent this mindset and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
