This blog post was written by our student ambassador Pooja, a PhD student at the Estonian Business School.
Imagine living where forests outnumber people, recycling is not just a practice but a way of life, and digital solutions drive both convenience and sustainability. Welcome to Estonia, a country where nature meets innovation. As someone who moved here from India with my family, I have witnessed firsthand how this small Northern European nation champions green living. Estonia isn’t just a place to study—it’s a place that teaches you to live in harmony with the environment, offering lessons far beyond the classroom.
A Model of Sustainability
Estonia’s commitment to sustainability is deeply rooted in its history and culture. After regaining independence in 1991, the country prioritized preserving its natural resources while rebuilding its economy. Estonia's vast forests, clean air, and untouched wetlands became symbols of its identity and a source of pride. Over the years, this respect for nature evolved into a national movement toward sustainability.
The country’s focus on green living is not accidental— it stems from practical needs and cultural values. With limited natural resources for heavy industry, Estonia turned to innovation and environmental stewardship as a path to growth. This mindset is evident today in its ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, as outlined in its national strategy.
According to a report by Climate Action Tracker, Estonia is among the few nations making strong progress toward meeting the Paris Agreement targets. For students, this commitment offers a valuable opportunity to witness how a country can balance development with care for the environment, serving as a global role model.
Nature at the Heart of Living
One of the most striking features of Estonia is its abundant natural landscapes, with forests covering over 50% of the country. The European Environment Agency highlights Estonia as having one of the highest proportions of protected areas in Europe, with nearly 20% of its territory safeguarded for conservation. For a family like mine, coming from a bustling urban environment in India, living so close to nature has been a revelation.
Regular trips to places like Lahemaa National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, have become a part of our routine. These excursions aren’t just recreational; they offer my 10-year-old child a chance to learn about biodiversity and the importance of conservation firsthand.
Clean Energy Leading the Way
Estonia’s energy transition is another area where it excels. According to Renewable Energy Magazine, the country rapidly expanding its wind and solar energy capacity. The innovative use of digital technology, such as blockchain for energy trading, ensures transparency and efficiency in renewable energy projects.
As a student, I have explored Estonia’s energy policies through my academic research and discussions at seminars, gaining insights into how nations can transition to greener energy sources. At home, this knowledge has inspired conversations with my son about why reducing our energy consumption matters. Simple actions like turning off lights and optimizing heating systems have become second nature to us.
Recycling: A Way of Life
Estonia’s waste management system sets a high standard. The reverse vending machine system, which rewards people for recycling bottles and cans, is both practical and educational. My child enjoys using these machines, turning recycling into a fun and rewarding activity.
Statistics from Eurostat show that Estonia is among the leading countries in Europe for recycling rates. Living in this system has taught me and my family to think critically about waste. We’ve adopted practices like composting and reducing single-use plastics, something I’m eager to introduce to my extended family when we visit India.
Digital Innovations for Sustainability
Being a global pioneer in digital governance, Estonia uses technology to minimize its environmental impact. For instance, the country’s e-Residency program, as highlighted in a Harvard Business Review article, eliminates the need for physical paperwork, significantly reducing carbon emissions.
This digital-first approach has also influenced me as a student. From submitting assignments electronically to accessing digital resources, the reliance on paper is almost nonexistent. These practices have reshaped how I approach my studies and work.
Personal Growth and Adaptation
As an Indian student and mother, the transition to living in Estonia has been a journey of adaptation. Back home, we were accustomed to a fast-paced lifestyle with limited access to green spaces in urban settings. In Estonia, I have learned to slow down and appreciate the harmony between urban and natural environments.
My child has adapted wonderfully, participating in school programs focused on sustainability and enjoying the safe, clean surroundings of our neighbourhood. The community-driven clean-up campaigns like “Let’s Do It! World,” an initiative born in Estonia, have been eye-opening for both of us.
A Call to Action
Living in Estonia has shown me that sustainability is not just about grand initiatives; it’s about small, everyday actions that collectively make a big impact. For students considering Estonia as their study destination, the experience extends beyond academics. It’s an opportunity to learn, adapt, and contribute to a global movement for a greener future.
By embracing Estonia’s values, I have not only enriched my own life but also laid the foundation for my child to grow as a global citizen who understands the importance of sustainability.
Estonia’s green journey is one the world can learn from—and as students and parents, we’re privileged to witness and contribute to this incredible transformation.
Reference: Meeliste, S., Tammiste, L., Kirsimaa, K., Suik, K., & Org, M. (2020, March 2). Reaching climate neutrality in Estonia | SEI. SEI.
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