Carbon Neutral Study Abroad

Study abroad and international experiences are fantastic opportunities for students to develop academically, professionally, and personally. However, we also recognized that travel associated with study abroad is a contributing factor to climate change. Accordingly, we are working towards Carbon Neutral Study Abroad in keeping with the United Nations Development Programme's Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs). To help us achieve our goal, CIP has partnered with PlanetAir, a non-profit leader in the fight against climate change. PlanetAir markets carbon credits of the highest quality to counterbalance non-reducible carbon emissions. 

The Centre for International Programs reviewed the study abroad carbon footprint for 2023/24 based on one round-trip flight to each students host university and found the following information:

281

Study Abroad Participants in 2023-24

685 Metric Tons

Total carbon emissions due to air travel

2.44 Metric Tons

Average emissions per traveller

$60.94

Average carbon offset cost per traveller

These facts come from the David Suzuki Foundation website:

• One return flight from Montreal to London emits as much carbon emissions as heating a European home for an entire year.
• The total carbon impact of a single flight is so high that avoiding just one trip can be equivalent to going (gasoline) car-free for a year.
• If the aviation sector were a nation, it would be among the top 10 global emitters. 

Check out the PlanetAir's website for useful tips and advice to start reducing your carbon emissions now.

Offsetting your carbon emissions is a meaningful way to take responsibility for your ecological footprint. By supporting carbon offset projects, you not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also contribute to global sustainability efforts. These actions reflect a commitment to environmental awareness and global citizenship, creating a direct and positive impact on the planet.

Planning Resources for Studying Abroad