Sustainability Abroad: CEA CAPA x CU Boulder Collaboration
About the Sustainability Content Creator Staycation
CEA CAPA Education Abroad and the University of Colorado Boulder partnered to launch the Sustainability Content Creator role, reflecting both institutions’ strong commitment to integrating sustainability into the study abroad experience. Drawing inspiration from CU Boulder's Sustainability Pledge and Staycation initiative, the program empowered students to creatively document and promote sustainable practices while abroad. Together, CEA CAPA and the University of Colorado Boulder engaged students in a Sustainability Staycation Weekend in Florence, encouraging them to reduce their carbon footprint by staying local and participating in eco-conscious activities. This collaboration highlights a shared dedication to cultivating globally aware, sustainability-minded students.
Learn more about CEA CAPA’s commitment to climate action here.
My Experience
Staying in Florence for the weekend instead of traveling was a refreshing change of pace, allowing me to appreciate my host city in a deeper, more intentional way. As part of CU Boulder’s sustainability initiative, I chose to embrace the idea of a "staycation" rather than booking a trip elsewhere. Not only did this decision reduce my carbon footprint, but it also gave me the opportunity to explore Florence beyond my usual routine and enjoy its beauty.
I started my weekend with a trip to Piazzale Michelangelo, one of my favorite spots in the city. The hike leads to beautiful views of Florence, and the hilltop square always has something happening. The walk up is always a bit of a workout, but I love the fresh air and the rewarding view once I get to the top. This time, I went with a few friends in the morning, and we were lucky to catch some live music playing in the piazza. The atmosphere was lively yet peaceful—the best way to start my day!
One of my favorite places to go for fresh air and physical activity! I went up with my friends and enjoyed some live music!
Next, I spent time exploring Florence’s vintage and thrift shops, a favorite activity of mine. Florence has an incredible selection of curated vintage boutiques, flea markets, and secondhand stores filled with unique finds. From designer pieces to hidden gems, each shop tells a story, and I love the thrill of discovering something special. Shopping secondhand is also an important part of living sustainably, which made this experience even more meaningful. Some of my favorite spots include MoMo, Humana Vintage, the Santo Spirito market, Melrose Vintage, and Rewind Vintage.
One of my favorite ways to be sustainable is to purchase clothing from either thrift stores, or locally owned businesses.
After some successful thrifting, I headed to Floret Café, a secret rooftop spot tucked inside the Luisa Via Roma concept store. With its chic yet cozy atmosphere, this spot was the perfect place to take a break, sip on a coffee, and get some studying done. Floret is also one of my favorite places to grab a cappuccino, as I was able to take a rest and take in the moment.
Floret is a hidden rooftop cafe that is perfect to study at! It has one of my favorite cups of coffee.
To finish up my staycation, I visited the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. There is a beautiful museum, as well as a backyard of gardens. Walking through the flowers, statues, and fountains, I truly loved connecting with nature again. I even did a bit of water coloring in the garden! The combination of art, history, and nature here is unlike anywhere else. I spent the afternoon wandering through the museum rooms and taking time to myself, while appreciating all that Florence has to offer and the history behind it!
Perfect rain or shine - Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens! Enjoy art and nature all at once.
Overall, I truly felt that this staycation weekend was impactful. Not only is it good for the planet, but it gave me a new perspective on my host city! It made me appreciate everything around me in a new light, and I am so glad I participated!
More Sustainable Tips
Sustainable travel is crucial, especially during study abroad, as it helps minimize the environmental impact of frequent travel and brings deeper cultural connections. Students often take multiple trips, which can contribute to over-tourism and excessive carbon emissions. By prioritizing sustainable choices like using trains instead of planes, supporting local businesses, and staying in eco-friendly accommodations, study abroad students can reduce their footprint while experiencing destinations more authentically. Responsible travel ensures that future generations can enjoy these places, while also benefiting local communities. Not to mention students get to explore the city they chose to live in!
Sustainability Focused Activities/Places to visit:
A thrift or vintage store that reduces fashion waste
A refill station for water bottles
A local farm to table restaurant
A shop using plastic free or sustainable packaging
A store that sells sustainable or upcycled fashion
A locally owned business
A restaurant or cafe that offers plant-based options
A place where you can compost or recycle
Your favorite booth at Santo Spirito secondhand market
