Welcome to the Loughborough University Sustainability Blog Guide – your go to guide to practical yet fun ways to live and work more sustainably. This blog series is part of Sustainability Week (10-14 November) and is designed to support both students and staff in making meaningful sustainable changes.

In a world where so much of life happens online, it’s easy to forget the value of stepping out into the real world. Travel connects us to people, places, and experiences, but it also impacts the planet. By choosing smarter ways to get around and making conscious decisions to reduce our carbon footprint, we can turn every journey into an opportunity to live more sustainably.

Travelling locally

• Walk or cycle where you can: plan ahead so you can leave in plenty of time and dress for the weather. Active travel reduces emissions and boosts wellbeing!
• Use public transport: make use of the Sprint Kinchbus service, local routes snd trains into Loughborough. If you are in London, the Tube is a great low-carbon option too. 
• Try car sharing: car sharing with friends, course mates, or colleagues helps cut down on fuel use and congestion while saving money.
• Mix up your routes: walking doesn’t have to be repetitive – our campus is full of green paths and scenic spots. Mixing up your routes keeps things interesting and encourages outdoor time.
• Try electric options: book electric taxis where available and look for bus routes that use low-emission or electric vehicles. Staff can also take advantage of Cycle2Work and Electric Vehicle Schemes to make sustainable commuting easier.

Long-route travel

• Drive economically: if you don’t have a hybrid or electric vehicle, adopt eco-driving habits. Use engine braking, shift gears smoothly, and keep your revs below 3000rpm to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
• Choose rail and coach travel: trains and coaches are lower-carbon alternatives to flying or solo driving. Railcards can save you up to 30%, and long coach journeys are often budget friendly.
• Explore the UK: stay local and cut down on air travel emissions. From Cornwall’s beaches to Edinburgh’s history, the Lake District’s trails, and even the Channel Islands, there’s plenty to discover close to home.
• Avoid flying: consider interrailing, taking a cruise from the south coast, or planning a scenic road trip through Europe. These options are often more sustainable and enriching.
• Make green choices on holiday: support local businesses, try vegetarian or plant-based dishes, respect local culture and nature, avoid littering, and travel in groups to reduce your footprint.
• Pack reusable items: bring a refillable water bottle, reusable toiletries, and pack light. Only take what you need and bring back what you don’t use to minimize waste.

Try this

The next time you need to get across the East Midlands campus, instead of taking the campus Sprint, leave earlier than you need and explore new walking routes.