Waste management

What we do to manage waste at BUT :

Hierarchy as a core principle

At BUT 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.

Prevention and circular economy

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.