Leaving behind London’s skyline, such as Canary Wharf, I aim to set out on a new journey- not just to study in Italy, but to test how travel can be kinder to the planet. Studying abroad should not cost the Earth, and with that belief – I aim to make my placement in Turin a benchmark for sustainable mobility and mindful living.
Instead of flying, I am committed to travelling to Italy via rail. While It may take longer than a flight, I am choosing to see the journey not as a delay, but as an opportunity. Travelling by train will cut my carbon footprint by nearly 80%, aligning with UN SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). I will carry a backpack made from recycled materials, and a reusable bottle throughout the journey. As I plan to pass through Paris and Milan, I will observe how small shifts like switching to paperless tickets, can be part of a much larger climate solution.
In my home currently I ensure to separate our waste, and always have promoted energy conservation. The heater stayed off unless truly necessary. Thus blankets and sweaters became tools of environmental consciousness, not just comfort from the cold.
Once in Turin, my sustainable habits will become part of my lifestyle. I am choosing to live within walking distance of the university, minimising the need for public transport. When travel will be necessary, I will rely on trams or bikes. Inspired by SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), I have been avoiding fast fashion and bought second-hand clothing from Vinted and essentials from local thrift shops. I plan to share tips on social media for low-waste living abroad, encouraging year abroad students to reduce their plastic usage and make use methods I am practicing.
Food, too, became an area for sustainable choices. I support local markets, in Newham over large supermarkets and have opted for seasonal produce, from Queens Market. Eating less meat not only helped my budget but reduced my environmental impact and my carbon footprint – an unexpected bonus.
Most importantly, I have begun to reflect on how travel and privilege intersect. Studying abroad, especially in Italy, is a rare and valuable opportunity, but it comes with responsibility. From my daily experiences I realised that sustainability is more than individual actions – it is collective momentum.
Should I be awarded this scholarship, I will continue promoting sustainable travel and lifestyle habits through social media, and peer-to-peer mentoring on LinkedIn. I believe the most meaningful journeys don’t just take us to new places – they change how we move and perceive the world.
