Symbol – plnobarevný základní vizuální identita VUT v Brně
The BUT Sustainbility Strategy is being developed through the supportt of the Czech Recovery Plan under the project Acceleration of Green Skills and Sustainability at BUT –registration number: NPO_VUT:MSMT-2143/2024-5.
“As a leading technical university in the Czech Republic, we accept our responsibility for a sustainable future. We regard environmental and climate protection as essential not only for ensuring quality of life, but also as a major technological challenge. If not a technical university, then who else should deliver effective technical solutions and nature-friendly technologies?”
doc.
Ing. Ladislav
Janíček, Ph.D., MBA, LL.M. Rector of BUT
We believe that sustainability is not a burden, but an opportunity. It helps us reduce costs, strengthen economic stability, and become more attractive to students and partners alike.
We analyse BUT’s carbon footprint in order to understand how sustainable our university really is. We have also committed to publishing an annual Sustainability Report to evaluate our goals and progress.
THE BUT SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY FOCUSES ON FOUR KEY AREAS OF THE UNIVERSITY:
We are incorporating sustainability into all degree programmes. We are modernising existing programmes and, in the coming years, will develop a systemic approach to sustainability education.
1 2
We aim to be a leader in sustainable research and innovation. We intend to monitor the alignment of scientific and research projects with the Sustainable Development Goals. Our long-term plan is to embed these goals into our systems and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.
Our Sustainability Strategy provides a concrete plan for implementing sustainability principles in practice. It sets out not only a long-term vision but also four thematic visions for specific areas of the university, extending to 2040. For each area, we have defined goals and actions that respond to both current and future needs.
3 4
We leverage our technological potential to promote sustainability and enhance quality of life. We focus on raising awareness among staff and building meaningful relationships with alumni. We actively collaborate with the public and partners on sustainable projects.
We are committed to responsible and transparent university governance. We strive to implement a more effective organisational structure and risk management framework. We will introduce sustainable procurement and investment practices.
We have the opportunity to become a leader in sustainability and to demonstrate that innovation and responsibility go hand in hand. Our ambitious vision for 2040 is to create an environment where sustainability is an integral part of everyday operations.
BUT is a modern, open, and research-driven university that integrates sustainability principles into all areas of its activities. It is a recognised authority in education, research, development, artistic and creative activities, with an emphasis on the practical application of results and social responsibility. As a responsibly managed and attractive institution for students, staff, and partners, it actively shapes a sustainable future through high-quality education and excellent research, systematic collaboration, and efficient use of resources entrusted to it.
TO ENSURE A SMOOTH TRANSITION TOWARDS THIS VISION, WE HAVE SET SHORT-TERM GOALS (BY 2025) AND MEDIUM-TERM GOALS (BY 2030) FOR EACH AREA.
Our focus is on improving communication and collaboration among students, staff and university partners. Together, we aim to develop a clear strategy for effective risk management and greater transparency. We also seek to gradually reduce our carbon footprint.
SDG 4: ENSURE INCLUSIVE AND EQUITABLE QUALITY EDUCATION AND PROMOTE LIFELONG LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL.
SDG 6: ENSURE AVAILABILITY AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF WATER AND SANITATION FOR ALL.
SDG 7: ENSURE ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE, SUSTAINABLE, AND MODERN ENERGY FOR ALL.
We are committed to ensuring equal access to inclusive and quality education by updating study programmes with a focus on sustainability topics and supporting lifelong learning through the Continuing Education and Counselling Centre (CECC) and the Alfons Counselling Centre.
We focus on the efficient use of water in our operations, improving water quality, and addressing wastewater issues through research projects.
We are increasing the share of renewable energy sources in our operations and strengthening our research, projects, and international cooperation in the areas of clean energy and energy efficiency.
SDG 8: PROMOTE SUSTAINED, INCLUSIVE, AND SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH, FULL AND PRODUCTIVE EMPLOYMENT, AND DECENT WORK FOR ALL.
SDG 9: BUILD RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE, PROMOTE INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRIALISATION, AND FOSTER INNOVATION.
SDG 11: MAKE CITIES AND HUMAN SETTLEMENTS INCLUSIVE, SAFE, RESILIENT, AND SUSTAINABLE.
We focus on developing strategic management, enhancing research collaboration, and implementing lifelong learning courses tailored to sustainability and practical needs. We support scientific research and technological innovations that contribute to environmental protection and the development of sustainable infrastructure. Collaboration with industrial partners is crucial in this regard. We contribute to the development of sustainable cities and communities through research projects focused on inclusive and safe urbanisation.
SDG 12: ENSURE SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION PATTERNS.
SDG 13: TAKE URGENT ACTION TO COMBAT CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACTS.
We focus on reducing waste, promoting sustainable practices in our operations and public procurement, and advancing research in sustainable production and consumption.
We integrate climate action into our strategies and raises awareness about climate change through educational and research activities.
Education and teaching are our core mission. By integrating sustainability topics into our curricula, we are becoming a hub of innovation and sustainable solutions. Our students are offered an excellent opportunity to prepare for the future and acquire the knowledge and skills that will be in high demand.
OUR VISION
BUT is a university that systematically integrates sustainability into teaching across all its study programmes. It offers a broad and transparent range of study, educational, and training programmes (for students, employers, and the public) characterised by high academic success and attractiveness. Its
graduates find practical employment in diverse technical fields or the economy, contributing to society as a whole, serving as advocates for sustainable development, and being sought-after experts in sustainability within their fields.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Prepare an overview of the integration of sustainability into existing study programmes.
• Innovate at least 25 courses within existing study programmes.
• Accredit at least two new study programmes focused on sustainability.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Systematically integrate sustainability education into all accredited study programmes.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Map existing capacities and opportunities.
• Introduce two new educational courses and integrate sustainability into existing educational programmes.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Systematically educate in sustainability, responding to the demands of practice and societal responsibility.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Develop a basic concept for sustainability education for staff and expand activities of the CECC.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Support the development of competencies in sustainability for educators and other relevant staff.
We are innovating courses to incorporate sustainability into degree programmes
We are collecting data on capacities and opportunities for lifelong sustainability education
We are encouraging students to focus their final theses on the practical implementation of sustainability
We are developing a system to raise awareness and improve staff knowledge of sustainability (aligned with university ranking requirements)
We are designing and delivering lifelong learning courses based on real and practical demand. We are striving to integrate a new framework for sustainability and ESG into all degree programmes at BUT.
We regularly update sustainability training and workshops for our staff
Science and research are key drivers of innovation at our university. Sustainability plays a vital role in technological advancement that protects both the economic and natural resources of our planet. By supporting sustainable research, we also gain a competitive advantage and transfer valuable know-how into practice.
A STRATEGICKÉ
CÍLE
VISION
BUT is a recognised innovation and technological leader in research and creative activities, ranking among the leading European institutions dedicated to addressing global challenges. It operates on the principles of interdisciplinarity and effective collaboration across its faculties and units. It focuses on applying results in practice, employs
highly skilled personnel, and is widely associated with sustainable research, development, artistic, and creative activities, which it actively supports through comprehensive stakeholder engagement and modern marketing. BUT is an attractive choice for collaboration and employment at both national and international levels.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Prepare a mechanism for recording SDG fulfilment in a centralised university-wide information system focused on sustainability.
• Develop a proposal to enhance public awareness of research, development, artistic, and creative outputs related to sustainability.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Integrate SDGs and ESG aspects into a centralised university-wide information system.
• Increase awareness of significant results and outputs of research, development, artistic, and creative activities in sustainability.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Develop a mechanism to identify and leverage synergies in sustainability-related activities and connect their contributors.
• Appoint guarantors and coordinators for individual strategic areas related to sustainability and establish a system for information sharing and collaboration.
• Expand channels to initiate collaboration on sustainable development among partner universities within the EULiST network.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Regularly map topics related to sustainable development across the university and utilise synergies among similar topics across faculties to effectively connect key actors.
• Promote international collaboration in areas related to sustainable development.
We are assigning SDGs to research and development projects and outputs
We are deepening and expanding cooperation with partner universities in the EULiST alliance.
We are preparing a proposal to enhance public awareness of research, development, artistic, and creative outputs in sustainability
We are designing a framework for inter-faculty cooperation in sustainability-related research
We are integrating SDGs and ESG aspects into our information system to better track the sustainability impact of our projects
We are developing a tool for registering and sharing equipment and technologies within the university and with international partners
As a socially responsible institution, we are well placed to contribute significantly to society’s transition towards sustainable solutions. Through collaboration with both the public and private sectors, we transfer sustainable knowledge and technologies into practice.
OUR VISION In the area of societal role, BUT is an independent institution, a driver, innovator, role model, and respected partner in addressing sustainability issues at regional, national, and international levels. It utilises its technological potential to support technological solutions that contribute to sustainability and improve the quality of life on Earth. This is
achieved through shared expertise, active popularisation of sustainability topics, and systematic collaboration with municipalities, regions, the state, businesses, national and international partners, as well as civil society. In sustainability, it places great emphasis on collaboration with primary and secondary schools.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Ensure awareness among BUT employees on sustainability topics.
• Develop branding, a stakeholder engagement strategy, and relevant tools for sustainability themes.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Ensure a high level of awareness of current topics and activities at BUT related to sustainability. BUT will be perceived as a socially responsible and engaged institution, a driver, innovator, and reliable partner in sustainability.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Develop a concept for an internal information system to monitor external relations and manage external communication.
• Develop a concept for strengthening relationships with alumni and prospective applicants in relation to sustainability within a university-wide framework.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Use an internal public relations information system with intelligent activity monitoring and managed external communication.
• Maintain quality and well-developed relationships with alumni and prospective applicants regarding sustainability.
We will increase public awareness of sustainability through targeted information campaigns
We will refine and implement a dedicated sustainability communication strategy
We will develop awareness campaigns aimed specifically at our staf
We will create a database to engage alumni and prospective applicants
We will integrate sustainability themes into alumni communications and the university’s outreach to prospective applicants We will plan and organise socially responsible activities in line with the university’s strategic framework
Sustainability is central to the operation of our university. We are reducing our environmental footprint, saving financial resources, and inspiring our staff, students, and the wider public. By implementing sustainable practices, we manage resources efficiently and foster a responsible academic environment.
OUR VISION BUT is a responsibly, transparently, and professionally managed institution with clearly defined measurable goals, efficient processes, state-of-the-art facilities, and modern management and governance tools with full digitalisation. It strategically plans its long-term development, actively engages students and staff, responsibly manages entrusted
resources, and rigorously applies sustainability principles, all while fulfilling its societal role. It is flexible, cooperative, open, proactive, and attractive to employees. It is financially sustainable, promotes sustainable investment and operational solutions, and has a clearly defined structure, roles, responsibilities, and organisational rules.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Establish a basic organisational structure, institutional system, decision-making and participation processes, as well as quality risk and opportunity management in sustainability.
• Develop a risk and opportunity register for sustainability and perform double materiality analysis.
• Create templates for sustainability plans and reports.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• BUT will have an efficient organisational structure, institutional system, decision-making and participation processes, and quality risk and opportunity management in sustainability.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Develop guidelines and rules for sustainable purchasing and investment, considering sustainability funding principles.
• Develop guidelines and rules for sustainable asset and facility management.
• Define basic indicative measurable sustainability goals and a target for achieving carbon and climate neutrality.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Actively use principles and procedures for sustainable purchasing and investment, aligned with sustainability funding principles and practices.
• Actively use principles and procedures for sustainable asset and facility management.
• Ensure high sustainability performance in operational activities, particularly meeting interim targets for reducing GHG emissions and energy consumption.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Utilise sustainability funding tools.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Develop and implement a concept for measuring sustainability activities and investments over their lifecycle.
• Utilise sustainability funding tools.
SHORT-TERM GOALS
• Conduct a gap analysis of sustainability data, prepare an improvement plan, and develop a sustainability data management concept.
• Establish a system for monitoring methodologies and data collection for university rankings, submit relevant reports to organisers, and provide recommendations to BUT management for improvements.
MEDIUM-TERM GOALS
• Ensure high-quality sustainability data and data management.
• Monitor the development and methodology of university rankings, submit relevant performance reports, and provide feedback for measures and improvements.
Perform analyses for implementing renewable energy sources (RES) and energy-saving solutions in BUT operations
Develop a concept and basic methodologies for energy, asset, and facility management, including technical building condition analysis and investment prioritisation
Implement a unified digital system for monitoring and collecting energy consumption data for individual buildings
Set decarbonisation commitments with interim targets for reducing the 2025 carbon footprint
Introduce water management strategies (covering potable, grey, and rainwater)
Implement circular economy measures, including waste sorting, treatment, and prevention
Institutionalise the sustainability agenda within the university’s organisational structure
Develop structures and formats for sustainability plans and reports
Publish the first Sustainability Report in 2025
Develop a concept and baseline methodologies for sustainable procurement by 2025
Establish measures to optimise the environmental footprint of travel, especially long-distance travel
Monitor the development of methodologies and data requirements for sustainability in university rankings and improve reporting for these rankings in the 2025–2030 period
Create tools for managing sustainability-related risks and opportunities through the lens of double materiality
Our strategy serves as a dynamic roadmap guiding us effectively towards our sustainability goals. Its success depends on well-organised governance and regular monitoring of progress. Cross-disciplinary collaboration is also essential. We will continuously evaluate the fulfilment of the aforementioned goals, enabling us to update the strategy and action plans as needed.
Effective implementation of the strategy requires collaboration across the university. Responsibility for the strategy lies with the Vice-Rector for Artistic Activities and Sustainability, together with the univer-
sity management. A newly established Sustainability Office, led by a coordinator, is responsible for both strategic and operational management. The office also includes a specialist for sustainability development.
VICE-RECTOR FOR ARTISTIC ACTIVITIES AND SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABILITY COORDINATOR
SUSTAINABILITY
OFFICE
SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPMENT
SPECIALIST
Our strategy focuses on innovation and responsibility, introduces sustainable measures, and prepares professionals to tackle global challenges such as climate change. It is a shared achievement of the entire university – its development involved representatives from the Rector’s Office, all faculties, and university institutes. The process was supported by a series of interactive workshops. TIMELINE OF THE SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT
Launch of BUT Sustainability Strategy preparations
OCTOBER 2024
Calculation of the university's carbon footprint, including analysis and methodology
DECEMBER 2024
Completion and presentation of the strategy to the Rector
The development of the Sustainability Strategy took place from July to December 2024, culminating in the official decision to adopt the strategy.
SEPTEMBER–
OCTOBER 2024
Questionnaire survey to confirm and prioritise sustainability challenges at BUT
OCTOBER–
NOVEMBER 2024
Workshops with the steering group and stakeholders to define visions and goals
2024
Decision to adopt the Sustainability Strategy as a binding BUT document
The strategy is built on solid and realistic data – we conducted a carbon footprint analysis and reviewed the university’s current state. The strategy is accompanied by detailed action plans for each area, a communication framework, and stakeholder engagement mechanisms. We will also publish an annual Sustainability Report to track and communicate our progress.
The Sustainability Strategy was financed by the European Union and developed with support from the National Recovery Plan (NPO) under the project Acceleration of Green Skills and Sustainability at BUT. The strategy was created with the support of the consultancy firm PricewaterhouseCoopers Česká republika, s.r.o.