Sustainable Travel Guide
Welcome!
At Queen’s, we recognise the transformative power of global opportunities for your academic and personal growth. Engaging in experiences outside your home country- whether through studying, working or volunteering abroad- enables you to learn new languages and navigate different cultures and challenges to truly become a global citizen.
However, in today’s world as we face a climate crisis it is important for us to consider the environmental impact of our actions We recognise that long haul travel can add to our carbon footprint, with this in mind, the Global Opportunities team is thrilled to share some valuable tips
and resources with you to help you act as sustainability as possible before, during and after your travels!
Achieveing balance is key; some of these suggestions might be feasible for you to implement now, while others might be more challenging due to budget, personal circumstances or other factors
If you have any other ideas on having a sustainable global opportunity we would love to hear from you.
In this guide you can expect:
Sustainable Travel Tips
Eco-friendly Packing Guide
How to be sustainable at your host destination
Sustainability at Queen’s
1
Things to think about before you travel!
Choose Eco-Friendly Modes of Transportation
Consider opting for trains, buses, or ships instead of flying whenever possible Air travel is a significant contributor to CO2 emissions, responsible for approximately 2 4% of global carbon emissions in 2019 Travelling by train or bus, and walking or cycling, especially within your host country, not only reduces your carbon footprint but also offers a unique way to experiences new landscapes and cultures
3. Pack Light
When flying, packing light can make a big difference The more a plane weighs, the more carbon emissions it produces. By packing only the essentials, you not only ease your travel burden but also contrubute to reducing the overall carbon footprint of your flight.
2. Invest in Eco-Friendly Products
Packing eco-friendly products can significantly reduce your environmental impact Items such as reusable shopping bags, refillable water bottles, and biodegradable toiletries help minimise waste These simple yet effective changes support a more sustainable lifestyle both at home and abroad
4. Create a Capsule Wardrobe
The fashion industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and global waste. Fast fashion, in particular, is responsible for about 10% of human-cause greenhouse gas emissions Instead of buying new clothes, consider creating a capsule wardrobe- a collection of versatile, mix-and-match pieces that can be worn in various combinations This approach not only reduces waste but also simplifies your packing process
SUSTAINABLE PACKING LIST
Reusable thermos flask/coffee cup: For hot beverages on the go
Reusable tote bags: Ideal for shopping and can be easily folded into your suit case
Soap/ Solid deodorant/Shampoo bars: Reduce plastic waste by using solid bars
Bamboo toothbrush: An eco-friendly alternative to plastic toothbrushes
Repurposed containers: For liquids and toiletries
Compact capsule wardrobe: Select a few versatile clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched.
Plug Adapter: Ensure you have correct adapter for your destination to keep your devices charged
Things to think about once you arrive at your destination!
Understand Local Recycling and Waste Management
Research Local Practices: Each country has different recycling and waste disposal methods. Familiarise yourself with the local system, including what materials can be recycled and where recycling centers or bins are located
Reduce waste: Minimise the amount of waste you generate by avoiding single-use plastics and opting for products with minimal packaging Shop Sustainably
Local Markets: Support local farmers and reduce food miles by shopping at local markets
Seasonal and Organic: Choose seasonal, organic produce when possible to reduce the environmental impact of your diet
Second-Hand Shopping: Buy second-hand clothing, books, and other items to reduce waste and support circular economies.
Eat mindfully
Plant-Based Diet: Incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet
Reducing meat consumption can significantly lower your carbon footprint
Food Waste: Plan meals to minimise food waste Use leftovers creatively and compost food scraps if facilities are available.
Choose Sustainable Transportation
Public Transit: Use buses, trains, trams , and other forms of public transportation. They are often more sustainable and can give you a better sense of the local culture
Cycling & Walking: Whenever possible, walk or bike to your destinations Many cities offer bikesharing programmes.
Carpooling: If you need to travel by car, consider carpooling with friends or using ride-sharing apps to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
Engage with the Community
Local Environmental Groups: Join local environmental or sustainability groups to learn more about regional issues and contribute to local efforts
Volunteering: Participate in local clean-up events or other environmental volunteer opportunities
Personal Initiatives: Consider personal initiatives like litter picking, planting trees, or supporting renewable energy projects.
Once you come home....
Before or after your time abroad, you might want to take some sustainable actions to help make a positive environmental impact Here are some ideas for how to be sustainable whilst at Queen’s!:
The Pantry: Utilise our free food refill station located on the ground floor of the Student Union building, One Elmwood This initiative helps reduce food waste and helps encourage sustainanable consumption The Big Loop Bike Shop: If you’re used to cycling or looking for a convenient way to get around Belfast, visit the Big Loop Bike Shop Here, you can buy, lease, or repair second-hand bikes
Workshops and Volunteering: Participate in various sustainability workshops and volunteering opportunities offered by the Queen’s Sustainability Team throughout the academic year.
Ex: - Carbon Literacy Training - Sustainability Change Makers Programme - Spring/Autumn Litter Picks
Share & Develop Your Ideas: If your host university or organisation implemented any sustainability practices or initiatives that you found inspiring, we would love to hear about them! Additionally, if you have any ideas you would like to put into practice, the Green at Queen’s Fund offers opportunities for students to receive funding to help implement their own sustainability initiatives
Travel Cards: Get a student travel card from Translink for discounted fares on buses and trains. The yLink card offers up to 50% off students aged 16-23, making sustainable travel affordable
Social Media: Follow Green at Queen’s on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for the latest sustainability news and events.
Green at Queen’s E-Zine: Subscribe to the monthly e-zine for updates on funding opportunities, sustainability events, and more ways to get involved
