Thinking of taking a year off after school before starting the next chapter of your life? That doesn’t mean you can’t still do something meaningful with your time. And there isn’t much more fulfilling than helping to save the planet. If you want to put your mind or body to work building a more sustainable future, you might like to check out these green gap year ideas for some inspiration.
Why take a green gap year?
Aside from all the other benefits of gap years, green gap years have heaps of other advantages too, including:
- Building important green skills, which will be valuable in lots of different careers in the future.
- Participating in real projects that are actively making a difference.
- Experiencing how different cultures and communities are solving issues such as climate change.
- Providing inspiration and ideas for potential future green careers.
Green gap year ideas
If you’re thinking of taking a gap year but don’t quite know what you want to do, here are some ideas you might like to check out:
Take a course with CERES
The CERES School of Nature and Climate runs a variety of courses covering all kinds of topics – all with a focus on nature and sustainability. From cooking and gardening to cheese making and leadership, there’s bound to be something that interests you.
You can see the full list of courses on offer here.
GVI’s Planet and People Programs
GVI is a gap year company that specialises in volunteer, travel, and work experiences that revolve around nature conversation and community development. Whether you want to help conserve threatened and endangered species or improve the resilience of ecosystems like rainforests and reefs, there’s a program for everyone. They even offer professional apprenticeship programs for people looking to further develop their skills and knowledge.
Learn more about the programs on offer here.
New GAP Year
This program encourages young people to head out to regional and rural areas of Australia and participate in harvest and farm work. You’ll learn tons of skills and get practical experience in agriculture and environment, all while being paid and enjoying some time to explore as well. They even offer special online training modules to help you prepare for the perfect gap year job.
Find the perfect gap year job or brush up on your skills here.
Raleigh Expedition
Raleigh International offers a gap year program for 17–24-year-olds, combining community development and environmental projects with an adventure leadership trek. It’s not for the faint of heart, but you’ll be contributing towards meaningful projects, learning all about nature and conservation, and building important skills with other volunteers from around the world.
Read more about the program here.
The Leap’s Marine Gap Year Programme
Learn to dive and contribute to reef regeneration projects in Costa Rica in this gap year program with The Leap. Not only will you be closely involved with a charity working on real conservation projects, you’ll also learn how to speak Spanish and participate in other fun adventure activities too.
See the full program details here.
Top tips for sustainable travel
While participating in these programs is incredibly rewarding and fun, it’s important to be mindful of the impact travel can have on the environment and local communities. No matter where you might travel on your gap year, here are some tips to make your trip more eco-friendly:
Pack light
It can be hard leaving your valuables behind, but before you take off, think about what you’ll really need and only pack the essentials. Not only will your luggage be easier to carry, it also reduces carbon emissions.
Take advantage of reusables
This includes things like bottles and cups, cutlery, carry bags, and refillable soap and shampoo bottles.
Save energy
When you’re not in your hotel or lodgings, turn off lights, fans, and air-conditioners. Avoid replacing towels and sheets unless it’s necessary.
Watch how you get around
If possible, take advantage of public transport options, or even consider walking or cycling (a great way to sneak in some exercise while you’re abroad).
Be respectful
When exploring natural areas, don’t disturb or touch any wildlife. Things like shells, flowers, and other flora might seem like nice souvenirs, but it’s best to leave as much as you can untouched – many countries have strict rules on exporting and importing these sorts of things anyway because of the biosecurity risk.
Support local communities
Eat at local restaurants and shop at local stores instead of international chains or franchises. This will reduce the impact of importing goods and support the local economy.
Find out more
Curious to explore more gap year options? You can read more about gap years on our website here.
