For me, travelling sustainably isn’t simply about travelling differently, it’s about travelling responsibly, with respect for the local environment and people. While studying in Beijing, I aim to align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals through consistent eco-friendly choices.
One of my personal interests is Scuba Diving. As a PADI certified diver, I am eager to continue scuba diving while doing my year abroad. Diving enables me to see the very marine life that we are trying to protect, which gives me more reason to act sustainably. As part of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, listed on the UN website (https://sdgs.un.org/goals) Goal 14 outlines how we need to protect ‘life below water’. Furthermore, by using the PADI website (https://www.padi.com), I will be able to book and plan dives local to where I am studying, while also becoming more aware of the threat that climate change has on the ocean. PADI Aware trains divers to remove ocean debris, protect coral reefs and better understand the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems.
Furthermore, I am excited to explore China. However, travelling by plane has a greater impact on the environment. Thus, I will aim to use trains where I can. I have already planned on joining ‘Train Society’ at Peking University, which is where members travel by train each weekend to a new area of China. Using China’s high-speed rail network will allow me to travel more sustainably while exploring the country. Using websites like 12306Railway (https://www.12306.cn/en/index.html), will allow me to easily book eco-friendly journeys in and around China. Furthermore, apps such as AMap and MetroMan will allow me to plan walking routes within Beijing and utilise the Beijing Metro, for sustainable travel around Beijing. This approach also aligns with the UN’s Goal 11, which says to encourage sustainable cities.
Additionally, coming from London, I see how big cities heavily rely on single use plastics for things like coffees, snacks and takeaways, and I expect Beijing will be no different. Therefore, I will carry a reusable coffee cup, lunch box and water bottle throughout my placement. These practises support Goal 12 and 14, by reducing single-use plastics, and reducing the amount that ends up in the oceans.
Furthermore, I have already completed a Mandarin course for International Mobility, and I will continue learning Mandarin while studying at Peking University. Learning Mandarin will not only allow me to experience China more authentically through its language and culture, but it will also help me consistently make more sustainable choices. It will give me the confidence to book high-speed rail journeys, ask cafés to use my reusable coffee cup, and seek recommendations for local restaurants. By removing the language barrier, I will be more likely to make environmentally responsible choices throughout my placement. Ultimately, this supports UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action, demonstrating how learning the local language helps to ensure my year abroad is as sustainable as possible.
