In June 2024, I set off on an 11-day bike tour from Munich to Szeged, covering nearly 1000 km, mostly along the stunningly scenic Danube, to attend the EUGLOH Annual Summit 2024. This journey was more than just a physical challenge; it was a statement about sustainability and a demonstration of my commitment to eco-friendly travel.
I chose to bike from Munich to Szeged as a way to advocate for sustainable mobility. To me, sustainability means finding ways to not only travel but to exist on this planet that minimize our environmental impact, ensuring the well-being and livelihoods of all inhabitants of our planet—humans, animals, and plants alike. This adventure was my way of leading by example, especially within academic circles where travel to conferences is common. I saw an opportunity to promote sustainable alternatives and show that they are both possible and rewarding on a personal level.
The journey was a chance to rethink our mobility habits and demonstrate that eco-friendly travel can be both practical and fulfilling. Such initiatives can raise awareness of sustainable practices and serve as a role model for the academic community and beyond.
The trip wasn’t without its difficulties. I faced challenging weather, high water levels along the Danube, and the physical demands of long-distance biking. However, with careful planning, physical training, and a willingness to adapt, I overcame these obstacles. Preparation and flexibility were key, allowing me to adjust my plans as needed and successfully complete the journey.
By choosing sustainable travel, we can contribute to a greener future and inspire others to follow. I hope to encourage others to consider eco-friendly travel options and influence travel policies to support green initiatives. By showcasing what can be achieved through a commitment to sustainable practices, I aim to motivate people within EUGLOH and beyond to embark on similar journeys.
Let's pedal towards sustainability, one trip at a time.
Fausto Ignatov Vinueza is a social scientist and enthusiastic amateur cyclist based in Munich. He is a doctoral candidate at the Rachel Carson Center for Environment and Society at LMU Munich, researching discourses on development and progress in extractivist societies. Fausto serves as EUGLOH Academic Coordinator and supports the project's implementation as a research assistant at the Center for International HealthLMU at LMU Klinikum.