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Study abroad raises many important sustainability considerations. In addition to the climate impacts of air travel, GLO encourages students to critically examine their impact on the host community and natural environment while abroad with attention to social, economic and environmental sustainability. 

Understanding Your Impact

Learn strategies to navigate cultural differences while practicing sustainable habits abroad, helping you make a positive impact in your new environment and host community. The way you engage with your host community shapes both your experience and the community itself. Cultural exchange should reach in both directions—toward people and structures. Your presence as a visitor can have lasting effects, both positive and negative.

Making a Sustainable Impact

Environmental Responsibility

Your choices matter. Consider these sustainable practices and reflect on your impact:

• Understand your carbon impact. Calculate the of your travel .  
• Airplanes produce massive amounts of ozone-depleting carbon dioxide. Consider offsetting the carbon emissions produced through air travel: , 
• Consider alternatives or complements to carbon offsets by committing to initiatives. One of GLO’s partners in Ecuador has an emerging sustainability initiative you can explore .  
• Practice . Cconsider alternative transportation options, such as walking, biking, and public transportation. Commit to staying local while abroad. If you do travel regionally, take the bus or train instead of flying. Always remember to research safety concerns related to these different modes of travel in your host country.
• Use a bike. Consider renting a bike to run errands or explore. Over 700 cities around the world now offer bike-sharing programs. Use this  to discover opportunities near you.

Ethical Considerations

Your presence impacts the local community. Consider your daily habits and how you can make a positive contribution. 

• Be mindful of your behaviors, habits, consumption and resource use and their impact on others.
• Demonstrate self awareness about identity and culture. Think critically about any negative and/or positive stereotypes you are bringing with you about the host culture. 
• Practice cultural humility by learning from and demonstrating respect for diverse forms of expertise, perspectives, as well as the lived experiences of others.
• Practice culturally sensitive photography (e.g. always ask first). Take special care when taking photos of kids and other vulnerable populations. Do those in your photos know where and how you plan to share them? 
• Be present and open-minded. Observe, listen, and inquire rather than criticize, rationalize or withdraw. 
• Stay flexible, thoughtful and adaptive. Demonstrate patience and resiliency in new situations.

 

Economic Choices

• Shop at local markets. Support locally-owned businesses and restaurants.
• Track exchange rates using to understand local costs.
• Be mindful of how your spending might affect local prices.
• Consider if your purchases are taking resources away from locals. 

Community Engagement

• Spend time exploring and deeply engaging with the host community before venturing further afield.
• At a minimum: learn basic phrases in the local language, research basic history and local events.
• Participate in community events when invited.
• Seek to learn from local residents rather than just observe.
• Ask permission before taking photos of people.
• Respect local customs and traditions.

Cultural Adjustment and Personal Growth

Reflecting on Identity

Take time to explore how different aspects of your identity might be perceived in your host country. Consider:

• Gender and Sexuality: Research local attitudes and norms around gender roles and LGBTQIA+ communities
• Race and Ethnicity: Understand the historical and current context of racial and ethnic relations
• Religion: Learn about religious practices and potential restrictions
• Socioeconomic Status: Consider how your financial position compares to local standards.

Explore Identity Abroad Resources

Cultural Adjustment Journey

It is commonly acknowledged that there are four stages of cultural adjustment, but this process is not always linear. You may find yourself moving back and forth between stages as you encounter new experiences, challenges, and personal growth. Understanding these phases can help you navigate the emotional and psychological shifts that come with living abroad.

1. The Honeymoon Stage

• Initial excitement about new surroundings
• Tourist-like involvement in the host culture
• High motivation to learn and engage
• Interest in cultural similarities and differences

2. Culture Shock Stage

• Focus shifts to differences between home and host cultures
• Small issues feel like major challenges
• Homesickness and frustration may emerge
• Might find yourself criticizing local practices

3. Gradual Adjustment Stage

• Increased understanding of local cultural logic and values
• Return of humor and perspective
• Recognition of preferred aspects in both cultures
• Deeper questioning of global assumptions

4. Adaptation Stage

• Feeling at home in your host country
• Balanced appreciation of cultural differences
• Ability to live and work to your full potential
• Integration into local community

Navigating Cultural Differences When Challenges Arise

It is natural to face challenges when adjusting to a new culture. When things get tough:

1. Stop and Reflect - Ask yourself what your reaction reveals about your own cultural assumptions.
2. Journal Your Experience - Writing can help you:
   • Process your reactions
   • Gain objectivity
   • Understand cultural differences
   • Track your adjustment progress
3. Develop Practical Skills - Here are six strategies to build intercultural understanding, inspired by Slimbach’s framework:
   • Cultivate curiosity and empathy—ask respectful questions and actively listen.
   • Discover cultural conditioning—reflect on how your upbringing shapes your views.
   • Recognize social variables—consider age, gender, or status in interactions.
   • Identify situational contexts—notice what’s appropriate for the setting.
   • Understand behavioral motivations—explore the values behind actions.
   • Evaluate cultural generalizations—use patterns thoughtfully, not as rules.

Navigating cultural differences isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about developing cultural intelligence, the ability to understand and adapt to diverse perspectives and practices. This skill is invaluable, both abroad and in your everyday life. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed or frustrated at times. These emotions are a natural part of the adjustment process and a sign that you’re growing. Sharing your experiences with others can help you process your journey and gain new insights. Remember, every challenge you face is an opportunity to build resilience, deepen connections, and thrive in your new cultural environment.

Cultural Exchange vs. Personal Boundaries

While cultural understanding is crucial, it doesn't mean accepting behavior that makes you unsafe or uncomfortable. If you experience harassment or feel unsafe:

• Trust your instincts
• Contact program staff
• Use available resources
• Document incidents
• Seek support

Resources and Tools