Sustainable Exchange
Sustainability is important for us at JU. There are many ways to think sustainably when preparing for your exchange, such as how you travel to JU, find some inspiration and tips below.
Why Sustainability Matters at JU
- Jönköping University actively works toward the UN’s Agenda 2030 goals and has a Sustainability Dashboard showcasing projects and initiatives.
- Students are encouraged to engage in climate-friendly practices and join local sustainability associations like Students for Sustainable Action (SSA).
- JU is part of Sweden’s Climate Framework for Higher Education, aiming to meet the 1.5°C target by 2030
- Sweden consistently ranks among the most sustainable countries in the world, with ambitious climate goals and a strong recycling culture. Studying here gives students a chance to experience and contribute to sustainability in Sweden.
Getting to Jönköping
If you need to fly to Sweden, you can still keep it green without spending extra. Book direct flights when you can—they’re usually cheaper and cut emissions. Pick airlines that offer free or low-cost carbon offset options, and pack light to avoid extra baggage fees and reduce fuel use. If you’re coming from Europe, trains, buses or car-pooling are often budget-friendly and better for the planet.
Everyday Sustainable Living Tips
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Sweden has an excellent recycling system. Learn the sorting rules for plastics, paper, metal, and food waste. Use the "pant system" for bottles and cans to get refunds.
- Energy Saving: Turn off lights and unplug chargers when not in use. Short showers and efficient cooking help reduce energy consumption.
- Food Choices: Buy local and seasonal produce and plan meals to avoid food waste. Most grocery stores in Sweden offer organic options and sometimes student discounts.
- Transport: Walk, cycle, or use public transport. Jönköping has good bike lanes and student discounts on buses and trains. For longer trips, trains are eco-friendly and offer student deals. It is easy to get hold of a second-hand bike to use during your stay at JU.
- Shopping: In Sweden, the second-hand market is thriving and offers students an affordable and sustainable way to shop. You’ll find plenty of physical stores which sell clothes, furniture, and household items at great prices. For online options, platforms such as Blocket.se and Tradera are popular for buying and selling everything from bikes to electronics. Facebook Marketplace and local buy-and-sell groups are also excellent for finding bargains nearby. Choosing second-hand not only saves money but also reduces waste and supports a circular economy.
