Sustainability & climate conscious travel

Consider the sustainability impacts of your travel and activities abroad.

Sustainable development goals

The University aims, in its operations, research, learning and teaching, to engage with and contribute to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, both locally and globally.

SWAY is keen to identify and promote Study and Work Away activities which address or contribute to these goals.

If you are planning a Go Abroad activity which addresses or links to any of the above goals, share your activity with us and we'll publish it on these pages to help inspire others!

Climate conscious travel

Travelling abroad has an inevitable environmental impact. As part of the University’s goal to be carbon zero by 2040, it’s important to reflect on the sustainability of long distance travel. Short and long haul flights are major contributors to global carbon emissions.

When you can, avoid flying - take a train or other low-carbon options. Where this is not an option, think about ways you can minimise your carbon footprint from flying:

consider destinations that are closer to the UK
take direct flights where possible
don't take additional flights when abroad

In addition, when you’re abroad (or even when you're not!) try walking, cycling, or using public transport rather than taking a car or taxi.

Calculate the cost of offsetting your carbon footprint

There are various offsetting schemes available to mitigate the environmental impact of your activities, supporting many different projects.

Use the ForestCarbon calculator to calculate the cost of offsetting your carbon footprint

Environmental Sustainability Commitment

Environmental sustainability is one of the most important and urgent issues facing society. Edinburgh Global takes its duty very seriously in relation to this and we are committed to making more efficient use of our resources and sustainable ways of working, travelling and living.

Our Environmental Sustainability Commitment represents Edinburgh Global's contribution to the University’s sustainability strategy and target of being carbon zero by 2040. We will review our commitment annually and involve all colleagues.

Read our Environmental Sustainability Commitment

Find out more

The University's Department of Social Responsibility and Sustainability (SRS) has more information and ways you can get involved in supporting sustainability issues:

Want to know more about the University’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility?

Read the University’s Strategy 2030
Read the University’s Social and Civic Responsibility Plan

Find out about Erasmus+ UK initiatives:

This article was published on 1 Mar, 2023