Growing up, I’ve always had a distinct interest in both travel and the environment. I recall building eco-bricks to donate and always trying to upcycle, which involved creating tote bags out of used clothes and making toys for my rabbit! However, the impact of travel on the environment has always weighed heavily, which has allowed me to consider different environmental options I can do myself and encourage those around me to follow suit. Travelling has been an aspiration of mine, to enrich my understanding of different cultures and having the opportunity to broaden my mindset and horizon which is increasingly important among healthcare professionals especially Occupational-Therapists which meet such a variety of people and focus on rehabilitation through meaningful activities, this is something I’ve been increasingly passionate with since I began my course.
Upon reviewing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, I align with number 12 the most, ‘Responsible consumption and production’. In my aim to reduce the use of single-use plastics, I will be taking with me a reusable water bottle, which I will be able to fill up before exploring the city. Alongside this, Sustainable Development Goal 11 relating to sustainable cities and communities, enriching my knowledge with the environmental status of Korea, of which I’ve learned their increasing challenge in climate change, as every country in the world. South Korea have implemented a carbon neutrality points program which includes actions like cycling and reducing food waste alongside using reusable containers in food delivery. They hope this increases the importance of a sustainable lifestyle.
Throughout my approach, I remain transparent in knowing the emissions which will come from my flight to Korea; however, I will be taking several actions to reduce my emissions and consumption. For example, using public transport, such as the trains and buses, alongside researching where I’m purchasing food and ensuring to use local and eco-conscious businesses. Additionally, by taking my reusable bottle, I can limit my use of single-use plastic bottles and choose recyclable containers for food. I also aim to respect Korea’s local customs and biodiversity, which include their new certification programme for water treatment facilities to guarantee safe and hygienic drinking water, which ensures I will be able to fill my bottle up at specific taps.
I also aim to promote sustainability to other students while I’m there and enhance their mindsets on the importance of protecting our planet. Meanwhile increasing my learning on local environmental initiatives.
In conclusion, I maintain my duty as a responsible citizen of this planet and therefore my responsibility to protect this planet, which is maintaining my goal to discover more of it. Through my Occupational Therapy background, there is no help in assisting patients to enrich themselves with Mother Nature and not enrich Mother Nature herself. My goal consists of not only my personal growth, Occupational Therapy clinical-focused growth, but ensuring I uphold the values which come alongside sustainability and the well-being of our wonderful planet.
