How to Travel Sustainably and Be an Eco-Friendly Au Pair
Hey Au Pairs,
The only talking point on everyone’s lips for the last few months has been COVID. It’s made a mockery of 2020, as we’re all very aware.
However, even though this pandemic has been filling up our newsfeeds, there is also another threat to the world - climate change!
I read and watch a lot about the disaster facing our planet and thought it would be interesting to write an article on a few things that can be done to make a difference to the planet.
You won’t find any bamboo toothbrushes on this list but actionable things that actually reduce your carbon footprint rather than make your Instagram look on-trend…
1. Learn More About Climate Change
It’s very easy to completely bury your head in the sand and forget all about how the world around us is burning. But, if we all do that then nothing will change!
Instead of feeling anxious about climate change, inform yourself, learn more about it, and find out what you can do personally.
Our Planet, An Inconvenient Truth, and Before The Flood are particularly interesting documentaries. Or, check out the many YouTube videos about climate change!
2. Buy or Borrow a Bike
When you first arrive in your new city, it’s a great idea to source a bicycle! Ask your host parents whether they have a good bike you can borrow. Alternatively, ask them to help you buy a bike.
If you live in a big city, then you can enjoy the bike schemes that are available across the city. Edwina and I have given a rundown of the Parisian bike scheme in our book!
3. Take the Train When You Travel
As an au pair in Europe, it’s very easy to find cheap flights to fly around the continent (or it used to be, we’ll see what happens after COVID!) But, these short trips are more damaging to the planet than longer flights!
Instead of flying, why not plan a more eco-friendly trip? Book buses, trains, and even take your bike along too! Check out Rome2Rio to figure out easy routes.
4. Pack Clothes You Already Own or Buy Second-Hand
We are regularly asked what to pack for an au pair year. We actually have a video on this topic and even include a packing list in our book.
But, one of the best pieces of advice I can give for anyone who wants to be eco-friendly during their au pair year is to only bring things you already own!
When it comes to buying new clothes, check out thrift shops and charity shops. If you visit the fancy areas of town, you can pick up some great pieces for a bargain. Alternatively, check out websites like eBay and Depop!
5. Eat Less Meat and Dairy - Live a Freegan Lifestyle
Okay, we know this is EXTREMELY difficult in France. We now know that eating less dairy and meat is one of the best things you can do for the planet.
But, this doesn’t mean you have to become a vegan overnight (although, it’s not as difficult as many will lead you to believe!) Instead, become a freegan!
Edwina and I got the freegan lifestyle down - this involves eating whatever your host family puts in front of you but trying to sway them into eating meals that you actually enjoy. Bonne chance.
6. Join the Climate Movement
We all know how much time we have as au pairs, one of the best ways to change the world is to become an activist! No matter where you are au pairing, there will be a local climate movement, and if there isn’t, why not set one up yourself?
It’s a great way to meet new people, get involved in your local community, and feel good about the fact that you’re making a difference.
If you don’t want to get involved, then simply donating a small amount of money every month is also a great thing to do, but perhaps a little difficult on an au pair salary!
7. VOTE
Just because you're away from home doesn't mean you can't vote! Having elected representatives who actually care about the planet is one of the only ways we can turn the tables on climate change.
Voting from another country requires you to be prepared in advance. You can choose a proxy or postal vote but they need to be done in advance.
(I have been very guilty of forgetting to vote because I didn’t get my act together in my first year as an au pair. This is something that my politically active boyfriend still tells me off for!)
