The green exchange

Global challenges require global solutions. When you go on exchange, you not only gain new knowledge and new perspectives, but also inspiration for an everyday life with a global outlook.

DTU encourages all students to go on exchange, despite the carbon footprint, because we believe the experience offers invaluable learning and growth that can help shape you into a better, more global and sustainable engineer. It makes sense now more than ever, as global experience and networks are essential.

 

Here you will find inspiration and practical ideas for making your exchange more sustainable, both during the planning phase and during your stay. You will get tips, tools, and guidance to help you make responsible choices and leave a positive impact on the environment while enjoying an exciting exchange.

 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Whether you are on exchange or not ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ is always a smart and sustainable mantra. A simple yet powerful principle that can help you minimize your environmental footprint during your exchange. Just remember, you won’t learn or discover everything in one afternoon, so be patient and let the process become part of the experience.
In the following sections, you will find concrete advice on how to live by this principle before, during, and after your exchange.

 

To give your exchange a more sustainable focus, it is a good idea to explore opportunities at your host destination.

Here are some things to consider and prepare:

  • Look for courses related to sustainability and gain insight into the local challenges your host country faces and how they address them. It is a great way to learn about the many facets and complexities of sustainability from a new cultural perspective.
  • Explore whether any of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals are particularly relevant to your destination.
  • Check for opportunities to volunteer in community engagement projects or NGO’s with a local and sustainable focus.

Furthermore, if you are traveling with an Erasmus+ grant, stay informed about any required pre-departure actions.

Reduce

Consider what you can bring that you will actually use like cutlery, hangers, a mug, or bedding. Packing an extra suitcase with essentials is in the long run more sustainable than buying new items abroad.

REUSE

Bring tote bags or reusable shopping bags for groceries and consider packing reusable containers.

Recycle

While packing, take the opportunity to declutter your home. Sort waste properly and donate usable items to charity or second-hand shops.

Small social and cultural choices can make your exchange more sustainable. Here are some practical ideas:

  • Support local and sustainable businesses and eat locally.
    Help reduce CO₂ emissions from food transport and strengthen the local ecosystem of farmers, shops, and restaurants.
  • Avoid food waste.
    Check if your university cafeteria or local restaurants sell surplus food.
  • Engage in local communities and volunteer activities with a sustainable focus.
    Network with people who share your values and gain insight into how sustainability is understood and practiced in a different cultural context.
  • Use your own cultural background as a strength.
    Stay curious and open to new initiatives and environments. Let yourself be inspired by local solutions and viewpoints. Learn from others and share your own knowledge.
  • Think about your transport options.
    Minimize air travel. Live close to campus and choose public transport, walking, or biking for your daily commute.

Reduce

Be mindful of what you actually need. Avoid overconsumption and impulse purchases especially for short-term use. Consider borrowing or sharing instead of buying.

reuse

Reuse where you can. Look for used furniture, kitchenware, or bikes via local platforms or university forums.

recycle

Learn how waste sorting works in your host country and get familiar with the local systems.
Once you are back home, take time to reflect on your experience. What did you learn? What will you carry forward? Share your newly gained insights, experiences, and practical tips. If you had access to unique recycling systems in your host country, that might even inspire a project at DTU.

 

reduce

When packing to return home, think about what you truly need to keep and what you can pass on. Avoid bringing back items you won’t use again. Choose sustainable souvenirs—like spices or other local products.

 

reuse

Try to reuse items you brought on exchange, such as kitchenware, folders, notebooks or clothes. Pass on anything you no longer need to fellow students abroad or those preparing to go.

recycle

Check out local recycling stations and collection schemes, and make sure to sort and dispose of everything you are not taking home properly.

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