This past summer, a group of dedicated students from Colorado State University embarked on an unforgettable journey to Copenhagen, Denmark, as part of the “Sustainable Energy Futures” study abroad program. Here’s a glimpse into their transformative experience:

Discovering Copenhagen: A Sustainability Leader

Copenhagen, renowned for its green transportation and eco-friendly urban planning, served as the perfect backdrop for our students to explore cutting-edge sustainable practices. They witnessed firsthand the advanced technologies and cultural initiatives that make Copenhagen a global leader in sustainability.

Highlights from the trip included an offshore wind farm boat tour where students visited an iconic offshore wind farm and gained insights into its critical role in sustainable energy. The group then went on a green bike tour where they explored the city’s sustainability sites on bikes, experiencing Copenhagen’s expansive green transportation network. Among many highlights, the students spent an evening at the Energy Academy on Samsø island, a non-profit recognized by the United Nations Global Climate Action Award for their role in driving a community-driven energy transition to 100% renewables in 2007. Rounding out an amazing experience, the group spent time at CopenHill, an innovative waste-to-energy plant, which doubles as a public ski park, and Copenhagen’s new carbon-neutral neighborhood.

Multidisciplinary Learning with Expert Guidance

Under the guidance of Dr. Lynn Badia, Associate Professor of English and affiliated faculty of the CSU Energy Institute, students engaged in a multidisciplinary approach to sustainable energy. Dr. Badia’s expertise in Environmental and Energy Humanities provided a comprehensive understanding of the technical, cultural, and social aspects of energy transitions. Through lectures, site visits, and hands-on activities, students honed their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address today’s energy and climate challenges.

Cultural Immersion in Copenhagen

Beyond academics, the program offered rich cultural immersion. Students savored local and sustainable Nordic cuisine, interacted with Danish citizens, and delved into the vibrant culture of Copenhagen. By the end of the program, they had a deeper understanding of how sustainable energy practices can be applied in various contexts and felt inspired to contribute to a more sustainable future.

If you’re interested in learning more about this program, please visit Study Abroad Sustainable Energy.