My Eco-Friendly Journey in Warsaw: Steps Toward Sustainability
Travel offers incredible opportunities for growth, exploration, and discovery, but it also carries an environmental cost. Before beginning my exchange experience in Warsaw, Poland, I committed to minimising this impact by aligning my actions with two key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and Goal 13 (Climate Action).
One of the easiest and most impactful decisions I’ve made is choosing public transport over driving. Warsaw’s efficient tram and metro systems make owning a car unnecessary. Thanks to student discounts, I pay less than £30 for a 90-day unlimited travel card, allowing affordable and eco-friendly journeys around the city. Additionally, I have travelled sustainably by train to other cities such as Gdansk and Kraków, limiting my environmental impact.
Warsaw’s strong commitment to sustainability greatly complements my efforts. The city is working towards reducing carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 through initiatives such as the Warsaw Green City Action Plan, which improves energy efficiency and promotes better waste and water management. Knowing that my everyday choices contribute to these broader goals is incredibly encouraging.
Small daily decisions have also been important. I always carry my reusable flask to cafes, which reduces plastic waste and often results in larger coffee servings, ideal for a coffee lover like me. Additionally, I prioritise shopping at close-by local markets such as Hala Mirowska (less than a 5-minute walk), therefore cutting down on packaging waste and supporting the local economy.
While Warsaw’s weather has unfortunately reminded me of Scotland’s grey and chilly climate, there have been the odd days with warm sunny weather. So when there is the chance, the city’s numerous small parks provide peaceful moments of reflection and relaxation, highlighting the value of slowing down and appreciating my surroundings sustainably.
Kozminski University’s welcoming and tight-knit community has greatly enhanced my sustainable practices. The university has hosted workshops and talks centred around sustainability and ethical business. One initiative that stood out to me was the simple yet effective promotion of digital materials and submissions, significantly reducing paper waste. Kozminski also has bins of different kinds dotted around the university, such as a paper bin, plastic, liquids and food waste. Allowing students the opportunity to recycle their rubbish appropriately where possible.
Sharing my experiences online is another way I contribute to sustainable travel awareness. I regularly recommend useful resources such as Ecosia for eco-friendly web searches, Too Good To Go for reducing food waste and saving my bank balance from going into the negative.
Ultimately, my exchange in Warsaw has been more than just an opportunity for personal growth; it’s been a meaningful step toward building a more sustainable planet. By making conscious, eco-friendly choices and inspiring others to do the same, I’m proving that sustainable travel isn’t just necessary but rewarding and achievable for everyone.
