In terms of impact on reducing your carbon pollution, this depends on what you choose to do. Volunteering locally for an environmental charity will have a bigger impact than travelling abroad to work in turtle conservation, but that’s not to say one is more important than the other.

There are other benefits. Volunteering is fun and fulfilling. Many volunteers report a sense of personal achievement and feel they make a positive difference. In fact, the United Nations recognises the important role of volunteers in helping to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.