Environmental Impact

At CET Academic Programs, we are committed to protecting our planet, its natural treasures and its people. In our offices around the world, we have taken steps to reduce our carbon footprint. We limit our use of gas, electricity and paper, and reuse resources whenever possible. In 2011, under the name of our parent company Academic Travel Abroad, we received our eco-certification from Sustainable Travel International.

We encourage our students to join us in our quest for environmental sustainability. For starters, read our list of Top Five Ways to be Green Abroad and our Sustainability Call to Action. Or, help us give back to the local communities that serve as our hosts around the world. We encourage students to support our list of philanthropic organizations, one in each country in which we operate a program.

Top Five Ways to be Green Abroad

Turn off all lights, heaters and air conditioners before leaving your dorm room or apartment.
Walk or take public transportation. Avoid taxis.
Use water sparingly. Take short showers. Turn off the water while brushing teeth.
Purchase locally produced food and products.
Reuse whenever you can. Use cloth napkins, reusable shopping bags and water bottles, non-disposable eating utensils, scratch paper, etc.

Sustainability Call to Action

Respect the fragility of your Earth. Unless we are willing to help in its preservation, unique and beautiful places may not be here for future generations to enjoy.

To make your travels more meaningful, educate yourself about the geography, cultures, and customs of the regions you visit. Take time to listen to the people who live there. Learn about their environmental, conservation and preservation challenges.

Leave only footprints, take only photographs. Respect historical sites and natural areas and leave them as you found them, without disturbing their peace and sanctity.

Respect the privacy and dignity of others. Learn about and follow local customs. Obtain permission before photographing people or their homes.

Refuse to buy products from endangered plants and animals (including ivory, tortoise shells, animals, skins, feathers).

In wildlife areas and national parks, follow designated trails only and respect the rules laid out by local authorities. Be careful not to disturb plants and animals in their natural habitats.

Learn about and support conservation programs and organizations working to preserve the environment in your area.

Consider buying carbon off-sets from reputable organizations to help counter the impact your travels have on the globe.

Return from your travels and help educate friends and family about what you have seen and learned and encourage all to nurture a cleaner, safer planet.

Philanthropic Organizations

China: Hua Dan
Hua Dan is a China-based social enterprise dedicated to enabling the personal, social and economic empowerment of China’s migrant and rural population through participation in and leadership of inspirational arts-based projects.

Czech Republic: Museum of Romani Culture
This is a museum dedicated to the preservation of Romani cultural history. As such, it also aims to fight xenophobia and educate the public about Romani culture and heritage.

Italy: Addio Pizzi
This Sicily-based organization works to generate grassroots resistance against the Mafia-backed extortion of local businesses. Addio Pizzi offers consumers a guide to businesses that have pledged not to pay pizzo to the mafia.

Japan: Polaris Project
The Polaris Project is an organization that works to combat human trafficking.

Syria: The Syria Trust for Development
The Syria Trust for Development is a national non-governmental development organization established in 2007 for the purpose of inspiring and enabling individuals and communities in Syria to shape their futures and realize their potential.