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Waste is not only an operational issue — it is also a subject of research, teaching, and inspiration for new business models. Across BUT faculties, numerous projects are emerging that connect innovation with real-world practice.
Researchers from the Faculty of Chemistry are developing a system of invisible fluorescent markers embedded in polymers, enabling machines to automatically recognize plastic types and significantly improve sorting accuracy and the quality of recycled materials. The same faculty is also working on bioplastics made from food waste and collaborating with companies on eco-design — ensuring products are easier to recycle from the outset.
The Institute of Process Engineering at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering (FME) focuses long-term on energy recovery from waste, logistics of secondary raw materials, and data analysis in waste management.
The Faculty of Civil Engineering (FCE) explores the recycling of construction and demolition waste as aggregate for concrete and seeks solutions for new challenges, such as recycling end-of-life solar panels.
Architecture graduates from FCE are behind the brand Plastic Guys, which produces design boards from recycled plastic. These were also used in the zero-waste reconstruction of the Veronica Foundation shop — an interior created exclusively from recycled and donated materials, demonstrating how circular economy principles can be directly applied in architecture.
A similar approach is reflected in projects presented at the FFA Collaborative & Conscious Material Design exhibition, focused on sustainable materials in design.
BUT collaborates with SAKO Brno on further material utilization of outputs from sorting lines. This cooperation includes diploma theses and professional internships for BUT students.
Waste management is not just an operational obligation — it is a measurable part of how a large institution impacts the environment. As one of the largest universities in the Czech Republic, BUT generates waste across eight faculties and other units spread throughout Brno.
To gain a clear overview of the types, quantities, and locations of waste generated at BUT, a Waste Management Analysis of BUT was conducted in 2025.
The analysis provided a comprehensive overview of waste production and management methods, and identified potential for improved sorting and prevention of mixed waste. Outputs included an inventory of outdoor waste containers and a pilot project involving detailed analysis at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication (FEEC).
The results are available in the BUT GIS — waste container inventory — as a basis for managing and optimizing the sorting system.
BUT GIS — waste inventory (login required)
Our main goal is less mixed waste, more sorting, better awareness, and a strong emphasis on prevention. All sorted waste fractions are handed over to contractual partners — primarily SAKO Brno — for further sorting, processing, and recycling.
We approach waste according to the waste management hierarchy: the best waste is the waste that is never created. If waste is generated, we prioritize reuse over recycling, recycling over energy recovery, and energy recovery over landfill disposal.
Sorting and infrastructure
Key recommendations from the analysis include introducing a minimum sorting standard — at least paper, plastic, glass, and bio-waste — and unifying the labeling system across BUT.
Standardization and Clarity
We are standardizing colors, pictograms, and container labeling — in both Czech and English — with clear information on “what belongs / does not belong.” Outdoor containers are being properly labeled and organized. Where appropriate, we consider limiting public access.
Education and awareness
We inform students, staff, and visitors about the sorting system. We train cleaning staff and prepare visual guides and campaigns.
Visual guides for sorting different types of waste are available on vut.cz/sustainability in both Czech and English.
We reduce single-use products in cafeterias and vending machines, support the use of personal containers, and build systems for sharing and reusing materials.
In 2025, BUT saved over 360,000 PET bottles thanks to a network of drinking fountains across campus buildings.
Responsibility: Mgr. Marta Vaňková