IonE International Engagement by the Numbers
Signature International Experiences
IonE offers two signature international sustainability experiences that place you at the center of global climate action. From climate negotiations to renewable energy innovation, these programs connect your learning to real-world impact.
UN Conference of the Parties (COP)
Take part as an official observer at United Nations climate negotiations – the largest of their kind in the world. This includes the annual COP meeting and interim session in Bonn, Germany.
As part of IonE’s delegation, you’ll:
- Observe international climate negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change treaty
- Engage with policymakers, researchers and advocates
- Contribute to research and strategy discussions
- Represent the University of Minnesota in a global forum
Travel or participate virtually. Either way, you’ll gain firsthand experience in global climate governance.
Germany: Leading the Renewables Revolution
Experience how Germany is transforming its industrial economy through renewable energy, policy innovation and community engagement.
During this immersive experience, you’ll:
- Meet leaders shaping the clean energy transition
- Visit renewable energy sites and innovation hubs
- Compare German and European approaches with Minnesota’s energy systems
- See how climate ambition becomes a plan and is implemented
Why Choose IonE for an International Sustainability Experience?
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Be Where the Action Happens: Whether you’re observing global climate negotiations or stepping into clean energy hubs, you have a front-row seat to real-time sustainability decisions.
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Learn Across Disciplines: Tackle complex challenges alongside students from science, policy, business, engineering and more.
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Meet Leaders in Sustainability Action: Engage directly with those shaping the future of climate action – from policymakers to researchers and innovators.
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Apply Your Knowledge to Local Issues: Compare global solutions with Minnesota challenges and return ready to apply what you’ve learned.
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Build Career-Ready Skills: Strengthen your leadership and cross-cultural communication skills – skills that matter in any sustainability career.
Where Policy Becomes Personal
At COP, you don’t just observe climate negotiations – you witness the human stories behind them. For many students, the experience becomes something far bigger than a line on a resume.
The vibrant youth engagement was a constant reminder that this is not just a policy debate, but a fight for their very future.
Preview International Sustainability Experiences
Get a glimpse of sustainability study abroad in action.
UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn, Germany
Paulina Vergara Buitrago at the Belém, Brazil Conference of the Parties (COP 30)
The Kö-Bogen, a LEED Platinum certified building in Düsseldorf
Students visiting an energy efficient and renewable home in Saerbeck, Germany
Students visiting the Bioenergy Park in Saerbeck, Germany
There’s More Out There
Additional Global Experiences
IonE also partners with departments across the University to support field-based sustainability learning experiences. Check the course listings for the most up-to-date information.
Study Abroad Scholarships
There are a variety of ways to financially support your experience. Please apply as soon as possible for aid, as some scholarships require evidence of your financial need.
Check with the learning abroad center at your campus:
Learn about Ecolab Scholarships – specifically for Germany: Leading the Renewables Revolution
Twin Cities undergraduates with financial need are eligible for a $2,500 Ecolab Scholarship. The scholarship application is built into the required IonE Google form.
Transatlantic Connections
Learn more about IonE’s longstanding partnerships in Europe.
Have a question or need more information? Get in touch and we’ll help you find what you’re looking for.