A psychology placement on the opposite side of the earth sounds like a perfect idea until you realise that after your flight spews out 3.5 metric tonnes of CO2 per passenger, you reach one of the most isolated places in the world. A brilliant idea I thought, travelling from Manchester to New Zealand to develop professionally, experience a new culture, and gain a global perspective.
The environmental impacts of international travel in long-haul flights are typically associated with high carbon emissions, so leaving the country anytime soon will be off the list. Sorry, Mom and Dad, I intend to offset the pollution I create through my round trip by staying there, and like a good Boy Scout, leaving it better than I found it.
I know New Zealand is quite far away, so shopping locally and choosing seasonal food from independent businesses and community organisations is especially important, rather than being at the mercy of international chains, which pollute more simply by importing their “must-have” goods.
I chose Wellington to get my steps in; it is the most walkable city in New Zealand after all. I intend to graciously take advantage of their wonderful infrastructure, mindfully planning each of my trips by walking, cycling, or using public transport wherever it is practical. However, since New Zealand is where The Lord of the Rings was filmed, I may just walk everywhere as tribute.
Culture is especially important within sustainability. I want to follow the Māori principle of kaitiakitanga, which focuses on caring for the natural environment for future generations. I will respect New Zealand’s Tiaki Promise by protecting wildlife, staying on marked paths when hiking, and following local conservation guidance. As if I haven’t already laid out how well New Zealand treats itself, I will also follow New Zealand’s strict biosecurity rules by cleaning outdoor equipment and declaring relevant items when entering the country. I want to make a lasting impact, giving more than I take, and hopefully these actions support the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Good Health and Wellbeing, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action and Life on Land.
My psychology degree has taught me that permanent change can only come from realistic, repeated habits. So, when I go there, I’ll be using SMART goals to structure my sustainable lifestyle. Before the bad habits kick in, I’ll make sure I form the habits of using reusable items, recycling correctly, reducing my food waste, and conserving water and energy.
To me, sustainability means having a future. If you don’t take care of yourself, or push yourself to hard, you’re going to burn out. Right now, the earth is burning out and I want to do everything in my power to help support and sustain New Zealand’s unique natural environment with its native wildlife, beautiful national parks, its endless coastlines, and ecosystems that cannot be found anywhere else. It’s a beautiful planet we live on, and I refuse to take that for granted.
