Across both of our journeys this fall, Bailey and I have seen and photographed many different moments across two very different cultures. I spent my time exploring the different and diverse ecological landscapes of Ecuador and the Galapagos. From Copenhagen, Bailey was able to explore Denmark, as well as many other spectacular countries in Europe with lots to offer. Although our experiences were very different, we both encountered similar topics within the Sustainable Development Goal of Sustainable Cities and Communities. 

With so much hype around sustainability these days, it is no surprise to see cities in Europe trying out new methods of sustainability. Bailey, however, was much more interested in how one of the oldest cities in Europe is adapting to climate change. She visited Aarhus, the second largest city in Denmark. This city has grown rapidly since 2000, and has had to adapt in different ways. One feature exhibit in a  museum uses technology to recreate destroyed wetlands in order to gain consciousness about conservation. The food is sustainably and locally sourced, and the ancient infrastructure is still in use. This ancient city is showing strong sustainability initiatives without turning its back on its past.  

On a tour of the Amazon Rainforest, my group stopped in a local rural village that our tour guide had a connection to. When we got to the school, the students had prepared something to welcome us. With their family watching, and their teacher guiding them, they turned on the speaker and danced, and then invited us to dance with them. After the heartwarming moment, our guide explained to us that the school has recently been reinstated after a law had forced the kids to travel far to a larger modern school. Our guide told us that he helped restart this school and it now teaches native culture and sustainability. Education is essential to creating resilient and sustainable communities, and with their school back under their control, this small town can develop according to the goals set by the UN. 

 

One of the most beautiful things about the Galapagos Islands is that the wildlife there does not know that humans are deadly hunters. The animals showed no fear of humans and are tranquil when approached. With a regular IPhone, I was able to take incredible photos of birds, sea lions, turtles, tortoises, iguanas, and almost anything that existed there. The reason this phenomenon still exists is because of the rules that the Galapagos Reserve maintains, and the tour guides enforce. We were strictly not allowed to touch the animals, or get so close that it stressed them out. These animals have existed on these islands long before humans did, but humans are now settling there. With the help of the Galapagos reserve, the port town of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz is learning how to coexist with the abundant and unafraid animal life that lives there. They are developing sustainable tourism, locally sourced food and drinks, as well as breeding, research, and education centers in the area. 

 

The Community of Luma del Tigre, Yasuni National Park, Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest

The youngest boy in the school here was by far the most into dancing. After the group dance finished, he had a solo dance where (with permission) I was able to get up close to take this photo. They danced with props and costumes on their soccer field behind the school. 

 

Aarhus, Denmark

Bailey was on a walking tour of Aarhus when she passed one of the most famous streets in the city. This street is several centuries older than the United States, and it put into perspective the timescale of Denmark and how well preserved these buildings were in comparison to American cities.

 

Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Ecuador

This photo is a perfect example of how Puerto Ayora has adapted to coexist with its wildlife. The sign explains a rule that makes sure there is a tour guide with tourists entering a protected area. Also, when people walked by this sea lion, they made sure to stay a safe and respectable distance from it. The sea lion showed no signs of discomfort, and seemed to be napping better than any human could on a bench on this busy dock.