An Inspiring Exchange between the Gutenberg Student Verein and Pompeu ESG Initiative

A Week of Cultural Exchange and Sustainability Exploration:

“From October 20th to 24th, we hosted our colleagues from the Gutenberg Student Verein in Barcelona. Supported by Universitat Pompeu Fabra and the EUTOPIA university network, this exchange became an enriching experience where sustainability, culture, and the bond between our associations took center stage”.

Day 1: First Meeting and Panoramic Views of Barcelona

Our first day together focused on welcoming our guests and connecting as a team. We took our visitors to several viewpoints around the city to see Barcelona from above, followed by a visit to the W Hotel & Barceloneta Beach. We shared a meal, which gave us time to get acquainted, talk, and lay the foundation for a memorable week.

Day 2: Exploring Barcelona's Cultural Pulse

Monday was dedicated to the cultural and academic heritage of Barcelona. We guided our colleagues through Parc de la Ciutadella, the iconic Arc de Triomf, and lively city streets. Accompanied by members of our association, they had the opportunity to experience the university atmosphere at Universitat Pompeu Fabra, where I, as the representative of Pompeu ESG Initiative, introduced them to the new sustainability reporting requirements (CSRD) through a theoretical workshop.

In the afternoon, we visited the Mercat dels Encants together—a traditional market offering a unique perspective on local culture and commerce. The day concluded with a visit to the Sagrada Familia.

Day 3: A Day of Exploration and Enjoyment

Tuesday was a day for personal exploration, giving students the freedom to enjoy the city and its surroundings at their own pace. They chose to visit the historic Montserrat Monastery and the iconic Park Güell, among other popular spots. It was the perfect opportunity to experience more of Barcelona’s cultural essence.

Day 4: Practical Session and In-Depth Sustainability Training

On Wednesday, we focused on practical aspects of double materiality and measuring sustainability impacts. In this session, they learned to assess greenhouse gas emissions using specific data, such as Repsol’s Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions, and created charts to visualize this information. This knowledge will enable them to interpret and communicate organizational environmental impacts with a grounded and practical approach.

Day 5: Farewell and the End of an Unforgettable Week

Thursday was a day of rest and preparation for their return to Romania. This exchange not only strengthened our bond with the Gutenberg Student Verein but also reaffirmed our shared commitment to sustainability and continuous learning.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Universitat Pompeu Fabra and the EUTOPIA network for their support and funding, without which this exchange would not have been possible. Their dedication to collaboration and education inspires us to continue creating transformative experiences for students everywhere.”

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