Elon University has a goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2037. Air travel associated with studying away represents about 22% of Elon’s annual greenhouse gas emissions, making it one of the university’s largest emissions sources. While some impacts of studying away are unavoidable, there are many meaningful actions students can take to reduce their environmental footprint before departure, while abroad and after returning home.

Before Departure

  • Prepare your residence hall room/home/apartment.
    • Turn off all your lights and unplug all unnecessary appliances.
    • Adjust the thermostat and turn down the water heater (if applicable).
  • Pack responsibly.
    • Remove all packaging from new items and recycle them before you depart.
    • Pack reusable items such as a water bottle, reusable batteries and reusable shopping bags to avoid creating waste while away.
    • Pack biodegradable soap, shampoo and toothpaste.
    • Borrow clothing or shop secondhand for items you’ll only need temporarily.
  • Plan for meaningful contributions.
    • Learn about top environmental issues in your host community and how they impact the local culture and economy.
    • Look for opportunities to volunteer or participate in community-based learning projects that support sustainability in culturally appropriate ways. Existing organizations or your program leader may be helpful resources when identifying opportunities.
  • Plan to travel thoughtfully.
    • Research public transportation options in your host community.
    • Seek out eco-friendly accommodations and activities when possible.

While Away

  • Choose low-impact transportation.
    • Walk or bike when you can, and use public transportation whenever possible.
  • Reduce waste and conserve resources.
    • Follow local recycling, composting and waste guidelines, which may differ from those at Elon.
    • Be mindful of your energy and water use in housing and accommodations.
  • Purchase thoughtfully.
    • Buy local. Supporting local businesses and purchasing locally produced goods benefits the local economy and often leads to more meaningful experiences.
    • Eat local and seasonal foods, which often have a lower carbon footprint.
    • Avoid products made from endangered species, coral or materials sourced in an unsustainable manner.
    • Leave biological and archaeological materials where you find them.
  • Support responsible travel.
    • Share your appreciation for sustainable practices with hotels, tour operators and other businesses.
    • Voice concerns respectfully when practices could better support environmental or social responsibility.

When You Return Home

  • Reflect and apply what you’ve learned.
    • Take note of sustainable practices you observed abroad and consider how they could be incorporated into your daily life.
  • Share your experience.
    • Talk with friends, family and classmates about what you experienced.
  • Get involved at Elon
    • Continue your sustainability journey by volunteering, attending events, becoming an Eco-Rep or applying for a Sustainability Research Grant.

Additional Resources