“碰(pèng)!” I declare at the mahjong table, claiming a discarded tile to complete my winning hand. Mahjong is just like a sustainable lifestyle, where success comes from building something complete from what already exists. This philosophy of recycling, reusing and reducing (3Rs) is popular in Singapore [1] and has been ingrained in me since childhood. I will carry this mindset into every choice I make during my study abroad in Edinburgh.
Morning: The Rooster Tile
With the morning sun comes the rooster’s crow, and with a flight comes the beginning of my journey. Edinburgh’s weather is famously unpredictable, so I researched its climate meticulously: layering rather than over-packing is the answer. This is important because lighter luggage means less fuel burned [2] and aviation already accounts for 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions [3]. To reach Changi Airport, I’ll take the public transport, one of the world’s best systems [4]. Every tile I discard, every choice I make, matters.
Day: Unknown Possibilities
Upon arrival, I will embrace Edinburgh’s remarkable sustainable infrastructure. The city has an ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030 [5]. Its Low Emission Zone has already reduced nitrogen dioxide concentrations; over 95% of vehicles entering now meet required standards [6].
In mahjong, tiles slide across the table; in Edinburgh, I will move myself by tram and electric bus. For shorter distances, I will walk. My student accommodation sits at the heart of Edinburgh, so I am certain I will not need a car. Edinburgh’s compact city centre makes this travelling not only sustainable but joyful.
And most importantly, the food. As a Singaporean, enjoying good food is a big part of my national identity. In mahjong, an action is 吃 (chī; directly translates to eat). In Edinburgh, I will eat at local farmers’ markets, choosing plant-based meals that reduce my dietary carbon footprint [7]. Edinburgh’s culinary scene offers abundant vegetarian and vegan options [8], and shopping locally supports small businesses while cutting transport emissions. This aligns with UN SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Night: Reflection
My commitment to sustainability does not end when my exchange does. I will document my journey—sharing tips on apps like HappyCow for vegan dining[9], Citymapper for public transport[10], and Olio for food sharing[11]—to inspire peers. Edinburgh’s Climate Ready Implementation Plan, with 15 actions already complete and 83 in progress[12], shows that collective action works.
Dawn: The Cycle Repeats
Mahjong highlights that sustainability is not about perfection but about drawing from what exists, reusing, recycling, and building something beautiful. From packing light to riding trams, from eating locally to sharing knowledge, every tile I place builds towards a cleaner, more connected world. The game is ongoing. My 下家(xià jiā; next player) is waiting for my tile. And I am ready to play my part.
References:
1. https://www.gov.sg/explainers/reduce-reuse-recycle-simple-steps-for-a-sustainable-future/
2. https://www.intelligentliving.co/sustainable-travel-packing-light/
3. https://ourworldindata.org/global-aviation-emissions
4. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singapore-public-transport-system-among-best-in-the-world-805051
5. https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/climate-2/climate-target-net-zero-2030
6. https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/opinion/columnists/edinburghs-low-emission-zone-celebrates-second-anniversary-lorna-slater-8651810
7. https://thezerowastelist.com/reduce-your-footprint-plant-based-diet/
8. https://freshroutestours.co.uk/
9. https://www.happycow.net
10. https://citymapper.com/
11. https://olioapp.com/en/
12. https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/downloads/file/35638/climate-ready-edinburgh
