MAKING A SUSTAINABLE START
“Hi, I’m Jake, the University’s Sustainability Coordinator. “If you’re anything like me and other young people across the globe, you’re probably concerned about climate change and threats to biodiversity and the natural world. While the organisation Force of Nature found last year that more than 70% of the young people they spoke to experienced a feeling of hopelessness when they thought about climate change, there is hope. There are so many ways we can make a difference. To quote Christiana Figueres, the architect of the landmark ‘Paris Agreement’ international climate change treaty, '… the world is only made out of individual actions. It does count. It does add up.'
“Coming to university provides the perfect opportunity to learn new things, explore new places and adopt new ways of doing that reflect your values. It’s a super-exciting time to embrace and promote sustainability. You could join one of our green societies or become involved in our sustainability events, which range from biodiversity tours to film screenings and workshops. The cherry on the cake is studying and living in a place where so much is possible and so many positive things are on your doorstep – that’s Falmouth! That’s what I’ve experienced here and I hope you will, too.” For ideas on how you can live more sustainably, turn the page to join Jake on a day out in town.
09:00 - By bus into town Our daily travel activities make up a significant part of our carbon footprint. Changing the way we commute, even on one of two days of the week, can reduce emissions and local air pollution. Regular services and affordable student fares make it easy to travel locally by bus. A ‘town zone day ticket’ – unlimited travel between Falmouth and Penryn – costs just £1.50 if you’re 19 or under. @gocornwallbus
10:30 - Filling up on supplies To live a little lighter, key things to consider are how we can use less resources and generate less waste. In Falmouth, un_rap makes this easy! This zero-waste shop stocks everything from staples such as spices and cleaning products to freshly ground, organic peanut butter. Bring your jars and containers (or take one from their donation box) and begin your plastic-free journey. @un_rap
09:30 - Morning coffee Day-to-day purchasing habits are the key to some of the greatest sustainable impacts we can make. By choosing to get your caffeine fix at a café like Espressini, you’re supporting a small, independent business that uses sustainably-sourced coffee from a local roastery. Even better, there’s no charge for plant-based milk and a discount for using a reusable cup! @espressini
11:00 - Taking time out In an age where fast-paced, resource-heavy expectations and lifestyles surround us, it’s so important for us to slow down and take time for ourselves. Spending time in nature, connecting with people and places – it's good for our wellbeing, generally low-carbon and easy to do in beautiful Falmouth.
12:30 - A low-impact lunch To cut your carbon footprint, you may be keen to embrace a vegetarian or vegan diet. Choosing meat-free menu options is both easy and exciting in Falmouth, given the sheer number and range of plantbased eateries – such as the stunning Planted café. @plantedworks
15:00 - Sustainable shopping A key sustainable shift in lifestyle is shopping for and using second-hand products. There are a number of charity shops in town and several active Facebook buy-and-sell groups. Be sure to check out Wild Pony, the local vintage and reworked clothing store. @wildponyvintage
13:30 - Sightseeing by bike Going by bike makes active travel around town simple and fun. Choosing to pedal not only saves emissions and money but is good for your health. On campus, you’ll find covered bike storage facilities and free showers available to use. Watch this space – the University is working with the Council to install electric bike hire points in the local area!
16:00 - Home by train With stations in both Falmouth and Penryn, taking the train is one of the most sustainable ways to travel. Commuting this way is often faster than road-based travel and can be cheaper, especially if you have a railcard. I love taking the train to Truro and onwards across Cornwall and Devon – the views are amazing.