How to Travel Sustainably as an MC Scot AbroadTravel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about making a positive impact on the world. As Maryville College Scots Abroad, we commit to exploring responsibly and leaving places better than we found them. Sustainable travel isn’t just a suggestion—it’s an expectation. As representatives of MC, we must consider the cultural, environmental, and economic effects of our journeys and uphold the values of responsible global citizenship.
So, how can you meet this expectation? Let’s break it down.
What is Sustainable Travel?
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) defines sustainable tourism as:
“Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities.”
Sustainable travel is based on three pillars:
- Sociocultural Sustainability – Fostering meaningful cultural exchange while respecting local traditions and people.
- Economic Sustainability – Keeping money in the local economy by supporting small businesses and fair trade practices.
- Environmental Sustainability – Reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing our carbon footprint.
How to Be a Responsible Traveler
Sociocultural Commitments: Connect & Respect
As an MC student abroad, you are not just a visitor—you are an ambassador. We expect you to:
Learn Before You Go – Take time to study the local customs, history, and language. Knowing a few key phrases can go a long way!
Engage with Locals – Don’t just observe—talk to people, build relationships, and live like a local.
Respect Cultural Norms – Pay attention to dress codes, gestures, and social behaviors. Adapt to local customs rather than expecting them to change for you.
Seek Authentic Experiences – Venture beyond the tourist hotspots. Visit local markets, attend community events, and eat where the locals eat.
Give Back – Look for ethical volunteer opportunities or support local initiatives. Travel is a privilege—make sure you’re contributing, not just consuming.
Environmental Commitments: Travel Light & Tread Gently
If we don’t take care of the planet, we won’t have one to explore. MC expects you to minimize your impact by:
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Bring a reusable water bottle (@MCScotsAbroad bottles FTW!), shopping bag, and utensils. Reduce single-use plastics as much as possible.
Lower Your Footprint – Use public transportation, rent a bike, or walk instead of relying on cars. When flying, consider carbon offset programs.
Eat Sustainably – Research local food systems. Sometimes that means eating more plant-based meals, and other times it means supporting ethical, small-scale meat producers.
Choose Sustainable Stays – Opt for eco-friendly accommodations or small, locally-owned hotels over big chains.
Follow Local Practices – Learn how the community conserves resources and try to do the same.
Economic Commitments: Spend Wisely, Support Locally
Where you spend your money matters. As a Scot Abroad, we expect you to:
Buying Local – Skip the souvenir shops with mass-produced trinkets. Instead, buy handmade goods directly from artisans.
Eating at Local Restaurants – Choose independent, locally-owned cafes and restaurants over global chains.
Staying in Local Accommodations – Book guesthouses, hostels, or small hotels instead of international chains.
Leaving Tourist Zones – Explore beyond the most popular attractions to spread your economic impact.
Practicing Fair Trade – Be mindful of haggling. While bargaining is part of some cultures, paying a fair price ensures artisans and vendors earn a living wage.
Final Thought: Be the Kind of Traveler the World Needs
Sustainable travel is about being mindful of our impact and making choices that benefit both people and the planet. Whether you're studying abroad for a semester or are on a faculty-led program, your decisions matter.
So next time you pack your bags, remember: Travel isn’t just about the places you go—it’s about how you show up when you get there. Let’s make every journey a force for good!
#MCScotsAbroad