Sustainability is increasingly gaining more importance and attention. Each year, 1.3 billion tonnes worth around $1 trillion of food ends up rotting in the bins or spoiling due to poor transportation and harvesting practices.
And there’s more: if people worldwide switched to energy-efficient light bulbs, the world would save US$120 billion annually.
These huge issues are encouraging universities to develop new sustainability-related programs to educate students about sustainability and the negative impacts.
How about making your life greener while you pursue your dreams of studying abroad? These 5 great sustainable destinations will help you with that goal.
#1 Sweden
Sweden, one of the largest countries in Europe, is the most sustainable country in the world and one of the cleanest! Swedish people take sustainability very seriously, it is a topic that is integrated into education as early as preschool.
With that being said, it’s no surprise that the government is constantly advocating and producing new ways to use renewable energy sources and lower carbon dioxide emissions. Besides, incentives like money and tax reductions are offered to encourage people to participate in environmentally friendly activities.
Sustainability programs in Sweden:
- Master in Sustainable Development – Uppsala University
- Environmental Sciences – University of Gothenburg
- Master in Leadership for Sustainability – Malmo University
Average tuition fees in Sweden: From $9,523 USD to $35,000/ year.
Cost of living in Sweden
Living in Sweden usually costs around $914 USD for a single person without rent.
Housing in Sweden can start from $440 and go up to $1600 depending on where you stay.
Most affordable cities in Sweden: Jonkoping, Helsingborg, and Norrkoping.
#2 Switzerland
Known as the paradise on earth, Switzerland is not only famous for its captivating scenery, but also widely famous for its sustainable development. There are always new plans for the future for a better and cleaner world.
The government pays close attention to waste management, for example: the country has to separate and recycle organic and recyclable waste and then convert the rest to energy!
It is also all about preserving the water quality; the wastewater treatment plant in Switzerland is considered to be one of the most technologically advanced in Europe.
The country is a perfect place to study and also plan your long-term career path there. Get ready to be a part of creating a sustainable and eco-friendly environment!
Sustainability programs in Switzerland:
- BBA in Sustainability Management – Sustainable Management School
- Social Justice and Sustainability – Franklin University Switzerland
- Climate Change & Global Sustainability – SIT Graduate Institute
Average tuition fees in Switzerland: From $450 to $4,178/year for public universities.
Cost of living in Switzerland
The cost of living there is around $1,552/ month for a single person without rent.
The rent starts at $860 and could go up to $2,000.
Most affordable cities in Switzerland: Canton of Uri, Glarus, and Appenzell
Innerrhoden.
#3 Japan
Full of cultural heritage and history, this country has amazing large cities with enormous skyscrapers, temples, and famous restaurants. Japan is also one of the most sustainable destinations in the world.
The country has always been dedicated to inventing advanced technology, but actually, it is also committed to creating a sustainable lifestyle for its citizens!
The government is enacting several laws and aggressive policies to reduce air emissions, water usage, and waste generation. LED lights were developed in Japan and as a result of that, their businesses were able to cut office electricity consumption by as much as 40%!
The recycling of electronics is a strict and mandatory policy as well, make sure you research how you can get rid of old electronics there!
Sustainability Programs in Japan:
- The Master in Sustainability Science – University of Tokyo
- International Energy Science – Kyoto University
- The Global Governance and Sustainable Development – Tohoku University
Average tuition fees in Japan: From $3,000 to $9,000/ year for public universities.
Cost of living in Japan
Living in Japan will cost around $1,055/month for a single person without rent.
The rent ranges from $480 to $1,500.
Most affordable cities in Japan: Sapporo, Kyoto, and Osaka
#4 Germany
Being one of the world’s most sustainable destinations, Germany focuses on developing environmentally friendly supply chain methods and increasing the social and environmental standards overall.
The government has more than 100 measures in the fields of electricity, heat, and transport and is expecting the greenhouse gas emissions to be cut by 80% in 2050!
It was one of the few countries that were able to absolutely reduce gas emissions by implementing environmental programs in 2020.
Germany has it all: beauty, culture, diversity, affordability, and sustainability!
Sustainability Programs in Germany:
- M.Eng in Healthy and Sustainable Buildings – The Deggendorf Institute of Technology
- Sustainability Science – Leuphana University of Lüneburg
- Master of Science in Sustainability Entrepreneurship and Innovation – ESCP Business School
Average tuition fees in Germany: $3,387/year for public universities.
Cost of living in Germany
It costs a single person without rent around $870/month to live in Germany.
The rent can range between $400 – $1,400 depending on the city and location.
Most affordable cities in Germany: Bielefield, Frankfurt (Oder), and Halle
#5 Canada
Canada has always been a leader in sustainable development as it focuses on reducing pollution and gas emissions.
For example, Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is aiming to promote green buildings and sustainable landscapes. Another example is Calgary, it is known as the cleanest city in the country and equipped with one of the best sewage systems.
Sustainability programs in Canada:
- Masters of Arts in Sustainability Studies – Trent University
- Environmental Sustainability – University of Ottawa
- Environmental and Sustainability Education – Lakehead University
Tuition fees in Canada: $6,000 – $22,500/year. MBAs typically cost more.
Cost of living in Canada
The cost of living in Canada for one person per month is around $877 without rent.
The rent can range anywhere between $500 – $1,600.
Most affordable cities in Canada: Kingston, Quesnel, and Edmonton.
Which of these sustainable destinations would you like to study in? Tell us in the comments and share this content with your friends if you like it. 😉
