Travel’ and ‘sustainability’ seem to be two words that cannot coexist. There are six main methods of travel: by plane, by ship, by car, by train, by animal, and by foot. Only the last two can be considered completely sustainable. Until the world finds a sustainable form of fuel, travel will continue to have lasting detrimental effects on the earth. The root cause of this issue cannot be solved by individual students, but there are ways for us to lessen our separate carbon footprints. The first thing a study abroad student does is take a plane. That is non-negotiable. You could take a ship, but most opt for a plane when going overseas. You only need to bring the essentials for your trip (depending on how long your study abroad experience is), so pack light (https://www.wcupa.edu/international/educationAbroad/documents/sustainable-guide.pdf). Also consider what you bring with you. Pack reusable and sustainable items such as a reusable water bottle. It will be easier on you and easier on the environment. When you arrive, use public transport such as bikes and buses, or walk if you can (https://www.wcupa.edu/international/educationAbroad/documents/sustainable-guide.pdf). Again this benefits you as well as the environment. When searching for keepsakes and gifts to take back home, do not buy from obvious tourist traps. Instead consider supporting local businesses or even thrifting abroad (https://www.wcupa.edu/international/educationAbroad/documents/sustainable-guide.pdf). There are tons of interesting and more affordable finds at second hand shops. Finally, continue the sustainable habits you learned at home, such as recycling, and remember the motto reduce, reuse, recycle. Though these actions may initially seem tedious, over time, you will build these actions into habits that will benefit you and the environment. May as well start these habits while you study abroad, because as a study abroad student you can act sustainably.
