Loading...

Studying abroad is an exciting adventure that opens doors to new cultures, experiences, and opportunities. As students, we often focus on academics, socializing, and exploring our host country. However, living sustainably during your time abroad can have a lasting positive impact- not only on the environment but also on your finances and overall well-being. Here’s a guide on how to live more sustainably while studying abroad.

Transportation is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, especially in large cities. One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is by choosing sustainable transportation options. Here are a few practical tips:

• Use Public Transit: Most cities worldwide have reliable public transportation systems. Using buses, trains, or trams instead of driving reduces your emissions and saves you money.
• Walk or Bike: If your campus and living accommodations are nearby, walking or biking is an excellent way to reduce your environmental impact and improve your health. Many cities also have bike-sharing programs.
• Carpooling or Ride-sharing: If public transport isn’t an option, consider carpooling with friends or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Some of these services even offer electric vehicle options, which are more eco-friendly.

Single-use plastics are a massive environmental issue, especially in student life. From water bottles to takeout containers, these items contribute to waste accumulation and harm wildlife. Here’s how to minimize their use:

• Reusable Water Bottle: Carrying a reusable water bottle is one of the easiest and most effective ways to cut down on single-use plastic. Many countries have access to clean tap water, so refilling your bottle will save money too.
• Reusable Bags: Whether you’re grocery shopping or going to the market, always have a reusable bag on hand. These bags are durable and can be used repeatedly.
• Avoid Single-Use Cutlery: Bring your own reusable utensils, straws, and containers when eating out or getting takeaway food. Many places also offer discounts for customers who bring their own containers.

The food we consume plays a significant role in our carbon footprint. The production of animal-based foods is resource-intensive, requiring more water, land, and energy. Shifting to a plant-based diet or even reducing meat consumption can significantly lower your environmental impact. Here’s how:

• Cook at Home: Preparing your meals not only saves money but also gives you full control over what you consume. Focus on plant-based meals like vegetables, grains, legumes, and fruits.
• Support Local Markets: Buying fresh produce from local markets reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation. It also supports the local economy and gives you a chance to try regional specialties.
• Avoid Food Waste: Plan your meals to ensure you’re using ingredients efficiently. Compost food scraps or donate excess food to those in need.

As a student abroad, you’ll want to blend in with local fashion trends- but there’s no need to fall into the trap of fast fashion. The clothing industry is one of the largest polluters in the world. Here’s how to adopt a more sustainable approach:

• Buy Secondhand: Look for secondhand stores or thrift shops where you can find unique clothing pieces at a fraction of the price. Vintage shopping is also an excellent way to reduce waste and get stylish clothes.
• Invest in Quality: Instead of constantly buying trendy, low-quality pieces, invest in durable, high-quality items that will last longer. This not only reduces waste but also saves you money in the long run.
• Care for Your Clothes: Wash your clothes less frequently and in cold water to conserve energy. Repair or upcycle damaged clothes instead of throwing them away.

Your living space plays a major role in your environmental footprint. Consider these eco-friendly housing options to ensure your accommodation supports sustainable living:

• Choose Energy-Efficient Housing: Many student accommodations offer energy-efficient buildings with low environmental impact. Look for places with energy-saving appliances and good insulation, which will help reduce your heating and cooling costs.
• Practice Energy Conservation: Even if you’re in a standard apartment, you can still make small changes. Turn off lights when not in use, unplug electronics, and limit water usage to reduce your overall energy consumption.
• Sustainable Living Kits: Some universities provide sustainability-focused starter kits for new students, which include items like LED light bulbs, energy-efficient devices, and eco-friendly cleaning products.

While the digital world is often seen as ‘paperless,’ it still comes with an environmental impact. Servers, data centers, and electronic devices require a lot of energy. You can do your part to reduce this footprint:

• Stream Responsibly: While streaming movies and music may seem harmless, it requires massive amounts of energy. Limit your streaming time and download content for offline use to save on bandwidth and energy.
• Unsubscribe and Delete: Declutter your inbox and digital files by unsubscribing from unnecessary emails and deleting old files. This helps reduce the data storage burden on servers and keeps you organized.

Many universities offer sustainability programs or clubs that focus on reducing the campus’s environmental impact. By getting involved, you can meet like-minded individuals and help make a difference:

• Join Sustainability Clubs: Participate in university initiatives like clean-up drives, sustainability campaigns, or advocacy programs that push for more green practices.
• Promote Awareness: Share your knowledge of sustainable living with other students, create awareness campaigns, or even collaborate with local businesses to promote eco-friendly practices.

Living sustainably while studying abroad isn’t just about making big changes- it’s about integrating small, mindful actions into your daily routine. By embracing eco-friendly practices, from sustainable transport to mindful eating and sustainable fashion, you’ll be contributing positively to the environment while also gaining valuable habits that will last a lifetime. Plus, you’ll save money and enjoy a more fulfilling experience, knowing that you’re helping the planet. So, as you embark on your study abroad journey, make sustainability a key part of your adventure!