Sustainable development strategy VSB-TUO 2024+

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY VSB-TUO 2024+ SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY VSB-TUO 2024+ VSB – Technical University of Ostrava Ostrava 2024 The Scientific Board of VSB-TUO discussed the Sustainable Development Strategy VSB-TUO 2024+ on 11. 10. 2024. The Academic Senate of VSB-TUO approved the Sustainable Development Strategy VSB-TUO 2024+ on 22. 10. 2024. The Administrative Board of VSB-TUO approved the Sustainable Development Strategy VSB-TUO 2024+ on 23. 10. 2024. © 2024 VSB – Technical University of Ostrava CONTENTS RECTOR‘S FOREWORD 7 MISSION 8 VISION 11 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS 12 RESEARCH AND INNOVATION 15 EDUCATION AND STUDENTS 19 STAFF AND OPERATIONS 25 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND SOCIAL IMPACT 37 MATRIX OF STRATEGY GOALS, SDGS, AND THE STRATEGIC PLAN OF VSB-TUO 2021—2027 42 6 7 VSB – Technical University of Ostrava has been and continues to be one of the main driving forces in the transformation of the Moravian-Silesian Region, which is dealing with the consequences of a history of heavy industry. Sustainability is therefore a key element of all our activities, particularly through the SMARAGD vision, which focuses on the sustainable development of the Region. The University is intensively engaged in research in the fields of energy and the environment, developing innovative solutions that contribute to a greener and more energy-efficient future. Our goal is not only to develop new technologies but also to test and implement them in practical applications. The University campus functions as a “living laboratory”, where proof-ofconcept solutions are tested. We focus on integrating various technologies, allowing us to verify and refine sustainable practices in a real-world setting. These activities benefit all stakeholders and strengthens the relationship between the University and the Region. We are bearers of innovation, support entrepreneurship and enterprise, and our vision is to be a partner for all who want to contribute to our society through their activities in the field of sustainability. As a university, we fulfil an educational mission. Our objective is to integrate sustainability into our study programmes and extend these topics to other educational activities for audiences of all ages, from professionals to the general public. Thanks to our international and Czech students and graduates who study and work abroad, we have additional opportunities to work with the topic of sustainability not only beyond the borders of our region but also beyond the borders of our country. Only quality education in this area will allow us to better understand diverse challenges and actively contribute to a more sustainable future. These efforts have been recognised with several awards, both at the regional and national levels. All this creates a strong foundation on which we aim to continue building, to become more sustainable, because we believe that a university should lead by example. The following pages outline the next steps in this journey... RECTOR’S FOREWORD prof. RNDr. Václav Snášel, CSc. Rector of VSB-TUO 8 9 MISSION We are pioneers of sustainable progress, combining the power of technology and science with challenges such as climate change and the sustainable use of resources. We integrate principles of sustainability into all our daily activities, from research to education, across environmental, economic, social, and cultural dimensions. Together with our partners from various sectors, we seek innovations that will enable sustainable development for both current and future generations. Key Pillars of Our Mission Innovation and research: We support and develop cutting-edge research and innovations that address both current and future societal challenges. Our University is a driving force for innovations that contribute to the prosperity and sustainability not only of the Moravian-Silesian Region but also of the Czech Republic and Europe. Education for the future: We offer high-quality and accessible education that prepares our students for success in a rapidly changing world. Our curricula are designed to provide the practical knowledge and skills essential for success in a digitally connected and sustainable global environment. International cooperation: We actively foster international collaboration and partnerships in education, research, and innovation. Our University is open to the world, supports student and academic staff mobility, and participates in international calls and projects Sustainability and social responsibility: We are committed to the principles of sustainable development and social responsibility. Our research and educational programmes place a strong emphasis on the environmental, economic, social, and cultural aspects of sustainability. Industry collaboration: We work closely with industrial and public partners to create innovations and transfer technologies. Our strategic partnerships with industry ensure that our research and education have a practical impact and contribute to sustainable economic growth. 10 11 VSB – Technical University of Ostrava is a university that recognises the importance of sustainability for future generations and actively incorporates it into all of its activities. We stand by the pillars of sustainability, which we approach from environmental, economic, social, and cultural perspectives, setting an example for both society and industry. Our educational programmes and research projects are designed to foster innovation in sustainable development and to prepare students and staff to tackle global challenges. The University campus functions as a “living laboratory”, where sustainability is not merely a word, but a common denominator guiding all activities. We take pride in nurturing an environment that reflects our values of sustainable development and remain committed to continuous improvement, inspiring others to create positive change. VISION 12 13 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS VSB-TUO proudly aligns itself with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to address issues related to extreme poverty, lack of prosperity and peace, as well as challenges in building partnerships and protecting the environment by 2030. 14 15 Scientific Research and Innovation in the Field of Sustainable Development Science and research play a fundamental role in our University‘s overall sustainable development strategy, and represent key pillars for the continued operation and development of the entire institution, both in terms of advancing knowledge in various technical and economic fields, as well as in terms of societal relevance. A significant portion of our research activities is conducted in collaboration with industrial partners, with a focus on addressing specific challenges faced by industry and society. Our main areas of focused research include modern energy (including the development of advanced materials and environmental protection) and the development of digital technologies, particularly in supercomputing and Industry 4.0, all of which are highly relevant and essential for both the Region and the Czech Republic. In the fields of science and education, VSB-TUO is a key player in the transformation and development of the Moravian-Silesian Region towards a smart and sustainable Region, in line with the SMARAGD vision, particularly in the areas of sustainable energy, industrial production digitalisation, transportation automation, environmental technologies, and smart materials. Our research priorities align with the needs of our Region, the Czech Republic, and the green and digital transformation of Europe. RESEARCH AND INNOVATION 16 17 Intermediate goals ›Prioritising key research areas to address the current needs of the Region and the Czech Republic. ›Supporting research projects focused on sustainable development. ›Promoting the societal relevance of research in technical and economic disciplines. ›Strengthening and deepening collaboration with industrial partners who share the same values, ensuring that VSB-TUO‘s research activities respond to specific challenges faced by industry and society, contributing to more sustainable development. ›Effective transfer of knowledge and technologies to industrial and application partners to enhance societal sustainability. ›Developing interdisciplinary and international partnerships to support sustainable development both within specific consortia and in a broader context. Implementation measures ›Establishing feedback mechanisms from industrial partners to guide the focus of specific research activities. ›Supporting research topics related to sustainable development goals. ›Promoting and sharing research results with the public. ›Implementing a central registry of research projects contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals. ›Developing the intellectual property protection process and supporting the commercialisation of research outcomes in industry or business activities. ›Expanding the information system to include monitoring of the impact of publications related to sustainable development goals. ›Introducing the Rector‘s Award for the outcome with the greatest contribution to sustainability development. ›Expanding the Student Grant Competition to support project proposals with a clear contribution to sustainability. ›Introducing courses within the PhD Academy focused on sustainability in science. Tools (indicators) ›Volume of knowledge transfer and research outcomes into practical application. ›Increasing number of applied research outcomes by type. ›Increasing number of publications in impact journals related to specific sustainable development goals. ›Growing the number of supported national and international projects contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals (according to individual SDGs). Responsibility ›Vice-Rector for Science and Research ›Vice-Rector for Strategy and Cooperation Alignment with SDGs (1–17) 30 31 Intermediate goals ›Develop a range of counselling and other support services for students and applicants, particularly through the Career Centre, Counselling Centre, Support Centre, and the “Slunečnice” Centre. ›Individualised support for students with specific educational or health needs, or those in difficult social situations. ›Revision of the content of study materials, working procedures, and controlled documents to eliminate gender stereotypes. ›Flexible working conditions that allow employees to better balance work and personal life. ›Employees and students are informed and educated in areas such as gender equality, diversity, and inclusive communication, as well as the creation of a safe and supportive environment for all members of the University community. ›Strengthen the representation of members in non-elected bodies. ›Sustainably increase the satisfaction of both employees and students. ›Increase the representation of women in senior positions. ›Raise awareness and provide education on gender equality. ›Support work-life balance initiatives. Implementation measures ›Promotion of the availability of supportive scholarships. ›Development of counselling and other support activities for students and applicants, particularly through the Career Centre, Counselling Centre, Support Centre, or the “Slunečnice” Centre. ›Expanding opportunities for flexible working conditions (e.g., return-to-work programmes after career breaks). ›Training and information campaigns for employees and students on equality, diversity, and inclusive communication, supporting groups and activities focused on diversity and inclusion, as well as reviewing University policies and procedures to ensure alignment with equality and inclusion principles. ›Regular implementation of satisfaction surveys for employees and students, along with their evaluation and presentation of the results. Tools (indicators) ›Number of clients of the Career Centre, Counselling Centre, and Support Centre who used any of the offered services. ›Annual number of supportive scholarships. ›Increasing volume of employee meal subsidies. ›Number of supportive measures ensuring flexible working conditions. ›Improving employee and student satisfaction. Responsibility ›Vice-Rector for Study Affairs ›Vice-Rector for Quality and Investment Construction ›Bursar ›Chancellor Alignment with SDGs (1–17) 32 33 Decent Work and Economic Growth The University aims to be not only a place of high-quality education and recognised research but also strives to develop excellence in human resource management as part of its effective operations. A key focus of this effort is to establish a favourable working environment and culture. Central to these activities are the development of personnel processes that emphasise equal opportunities and transparent renumeration, as well as support for employees through various benefits. Ensuring decent working conditions and compliance with all safety and hygiene standards. The University’s role goes beyond providing high-quality education; it also offers comprehensive career counselling for students. This counselling is a key component of the University’s commitment to ensuring decent work for all, as it helps students prepare for the job market, identify, and develop their strengths. The University’s Career Centre offers a wide range of services, including individual consultations, skills development workshops, job interview preparation, CV writing, and access to a network of employers. Intermediate goals ›A transparent renumeration system. ›Decent working conditions, and compliance with all safety and hygiene standards. ›Support for employees through the benefit programme provided by the employer. ›High-quality career counselling providing equal opportunities for all students. Implementation measures ›Regular revision of the renumeration system. ›Training for senior employees in human resource management and other managerial skills. ›Ensuring quality working conditions by complying with all legislative measures (occupational health and safety, fire protection). ›Development of the employee benefits system. ›Development of Career Centre activities. Tools (indicators) ›Proportion of trained senior employees. ›Proportion of employees using employee benefits. ›Number of Career Centre clients who used at least one offered service. ›Employability of graduates and the median gross salary of graduates. Responsibility ›Bursar ›Vice-Rector for Strategy and Cooperation Alignment with SDGs (1–17) 34 35 University Operations The University has become a leading pioneer in sustainability both in the Czech Republic and abroad. Its priority is to ensure energy and resource self-sufficiency through the support of renewable energy sources, in line with the European Union‘s goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, as outlined in the EU Green Deal. The University campus serves as an example of modern technologies used to reduce energy consumption, fully aligned with the principles of the circular economy. Photovoltaic power plants, solar, and geothermal systems have been installed across the campus, which annually achieves reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Approximately 85% of University buildings meet the latest energy standards, with active plans underway for the renovation of remaining buildings. The active water resource management, support for biodiversity, and efforts to minimise biological and municipal waste further demonstrate the University’s commitment to sustainable development. To support sustainable mobility, the campus is equipped with bike-sharing stations, bike racks, and a low-emission vehicle fleet, including comprehensive infrastructure for charging the University’s electric vehicles. Intermediate goals ›Improve the efficiency of energy use by reducing energy losses and optimising processes, including promoting a responsible approach to energy consumption among University employees. ›Efficient and sustainable water management practices aimed at reducing consumption and promoting water reuse, in line with circular economy principles. ›Increase the proportion of new low-carbon technologies, including research, development of new technologies and innovations that enhance energy sustainability in collaboration with partners from industry, public, and public sectors. ›Expand eco-friendly transportation options in line with modern global trends. ›Maintain the current ratio of static transportation to green and pedestrian zones on the campus. Implementation measures ›Strengthening the use of passive insulation elements in buildings and promoting sustainable energy sources, including energy storage, and expansion of geothermal energy, energy from alternative fuels, and waste heat conversion. ›Installation of underground reservoirs for collecting rainwater and greywater, and its subsequent use for irrigation and toilet flushing. ›Active investment in the digitalisation and optimisation of all University processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs. ›Establishment of processes and providing administrative and financial support for the preparation and implementation of research projects. Tools (indicators) ›Increase of the University‘s energy self-sufficiency by 2030 (compared to 2023). ›Ratio of space allocated to static transportation versus green areas and pedestrian zones. ›Reduce water consumption by 20% by 2030 (compared to 2023). ›Reduce the amount of waste. Responsibility ›Bursar Alignment with SDGs (1–17) 36 37 Strategic Collaboration VSB-TUO plays a key role in the development of society, not only by providing higher education and advancing scientific knowledge but also by contributing to the development of industrial partners, public institutions, and the nonprofit sector—particularly in the region where it operates. This impact extends beyond Ostrava and the Moravian-Silesian Region to include other campuses where the University operates. In particular, the University‘s collaboration with municipal and regional authorities, stakeholders, associations, and other organisations is crucial for achieving their shared sustainable development goals. VSB-TUO has long supported entrepreneurship and innovation in the Region, creating job opportunities for its graduates, many of whom secure positions with higher added value. This contributes to the prosperity of the city and enhances its attractiveness to investors. Beyond these activities, the University works on strengthening its scientific capacities by significantly expanding its international research teams. PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND SOCIAL IMPACT 38 39 Intermediate goals ›Increase the level of collaboration with partners, including government institutions, industrial entities, and municipal authorities, to address specific challenges related to the sustainable development of the Region. ›Strengthen ties with key national players, such as ministries, research institutions, and other educational institutions, to develop strategies and projects focused on sustainable development. ›Develop and enhance global partnerships with universities and institutions worldwide to jointly contribute to solving global sustainability challenges. ›Actively integrate sustainability into the University‘s strategic planning processes, not only at the theoretical level but also through practical implementation, considering key international, national, and regional documents and strategies. ›Be a socially responsible institution. Implementation measures ›Actively seeking and developing new and existing partnerships with regional institutions, government organisations, and industrial partners to identify specific projects and initiatives focused on sustainable development. ›Fostering multidisciplinary collaboration that allows the connection of various fields of expertise and approaches to address complex challenges. ›Creating opportunities for students and employees to engage in projects and activities with social impact (e.g., Studentopolis). ›Reflecting on the alignment of projects with sustainable development goals within the internal Project and Contract Record System (EPZ). Tools (indicators) ›Overview of active collaborations documented in “VSB-TUO Membership in Organisations, Associations, and Alliances”. ›Number of R&D projects focused on applied research and collaboration with companies. ›Number of projects focused on collaboration with the public sector. ›Overview of projects aligned with sustainable development goals, i.e., projects fulfilling sustainability goals (to be introduced in EPZ as an optional field starting in 2024, and later made mandatory according to the issued document). ›Membership in consortia such as the Fraunhofer Innovation Platform for Applied Artificial Intelligence for Materials & Manufacturing at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava (FIP-AI@VSB-TUO), U!REKA, and others Responsibility ›Vice-Rector for Strategy and Cooperation ›Vice-Rector for Science and Research Alignment with SDGs (1–17) 40 41 University Life The University plays not only the role of an academic centre but also becomes a key ally in the development and strengthening of the community. With a wide range of services for students, staff, and the general public, the University moves beyond traditional education, becoming an organism that brings together diverse interests and needs. The campus features modern sports facilities, quality accommodation, and conference spaces that are easily accessible and open for both academic purposes and public events. An emphasis on culture, art, and the preservation of technical heritage is an integral part of the University environment. The Poruba campus is open to the public and serves as a bridge between the University and the local community, providing access to a rich cultural and artistic programme. VSB-TUO thus demonstrates its commitment not only to providing top-quality education but also to supporting the cultural and educational development of the Region. The University Museum and galleries, along with libraries and a variety of events, form a dynamic centre for students, staff, and the public, promoting an ongoing dialogue between science, art, and society. Intermediate goals ›Support for cultural heritage and traditions. ›Highlighting and maintaining artwork on the University campus. ›Support for sustainable housing for students and staff in University dormitories. ›Collaboration with municipalities, stakeholders, and organisations which the University is part of. Implementation measures ›Investments in the restoration of historical landmarks on the campus. ›Increasing awareness and promotion of the University choir and orchestra. ›Leveraging knowledge and long-standing expertise in materials science for the renovation of cultural monuments. ›Educating students, employees, and the public on sustainable development. ›Actively seeking new relationships and strengthening existing ones with key stakeholders. ›Identification and implementation of projects with surrounding municipalities. Tools (indicators) ›University expenditures on art and cultural heritage. ›Number of cultural events, e.g., choir and orchestra concerts. ›Occupancy of hotel and conference facilities. ›Occupancy of sports facilities. Responsibility ›Bursar ›Public Relations Alignment with SDGs (1–17) 42 43 MATRIX OF STRATEGY GOALS, SDGS, AND THE STRATEGIC PLAN OF VSB-TUO 2021–2027 Sustainable Development Strategy Goals of VSB-TUO SDGs › › SDGs Strategic Plan of VSB-TUO No poverty Zero hunger Good health and well-being Quality education Gender equality Clean water and sanitation Affordable and clean energy Decent work and economic growth Industry, innovation and infrastructure Reduced inequalities Sustainable cities and communities Responsible consumption and production Climate action Life below water Life on land Peace, justice, and strong institutions Partnerships for the goals Education for practice Recognised research Efficient functioning Research and Innovation Scientific Research and Innovation in the Field of Sustainable Development Education and Students Quality Education for Sustainability Education on the Topic of Sustainability Staff and Operations Effective Management Reduced Inequalities Decent Work and Economic Growth University Operations Public Engagement and Social Impact Strategic Collaboration University Life Crucial for implementation, priority for resolution Moderate significance, worthy of attention Insignificant importance Description of how the goals of the Sustainable Development Strategy VSB-TUO 2024+ align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The legend below table shows how we are achieving these goals, how relevant they are to our Sustainable Development Strategy VSB-TUO 2024+, and which goals should be prioritised by VSB-TUO within the SDGs and the Strategic Plan of VSB-TUO 2021–2027. These areas deserve increased attention and more energy dedicated to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Strategy. 44 45 In developing this sustainability strategy, both national and European documents related to sustainable development were considered. ›Innovation Strategy of the Czech Republic 2019–2030 ›Digital Education Action Plan ›National Energy Concept ›Strategic Plan of the Ministry for Higher Education for the Period from 2021 ›Internationalisation of Higher Education Strategy for the Period from 2021 ›Strategic Framework Czech Republic 2030 ›Development Strategy of the Moravian-Silesian Region for 2019–2027 ›European Strategy for Universities ›Pact for Skills ›European Skills Agenda ›European Climate Pact ›European Green Deal Sources ›Metodika THE Impact Rankings 2023, the-ranking.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/ IMPACT/IMPACT2023/THE.ImpactRankings. METHODOLOGY.2023_v1.2.pdf ›A Green Deal roadmap for universities, eua. eu/downloads/publications/eua%20green%20 deal%20roadmap.pdf ›UN, Sustainable Development Goals, osn.cz/osn/hlavni-temata/cile-udrzitelnehorozvoje-sdgs/ The document was created with the support of the project ›“Support for Green Skills and Sustainability at Universities”: component 7.4 of the National Recovery Plan for Higher Education Institutions for 2023–2025 ›Project No.: NPO_VSB-TUO_MSMT-2144/2024-4 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY VSB-TUO 2024+ Published by: VSB – Technical University of Ostrava Main coordinator: prof. Ing. Igor Ivan, Ph.D. Expert coordinators: Ing. Zdeňka Chmelíková, Ph.D., prof. Mgr. Jana Kukutschová, Ph.D., Ing. Gabriela Mechelová, prof. Ing. Stanislav Mišák, Ph.D. Editors: Kateřina Angus, Ing. Lucie Bestová, Ing. Petra Halíková, Ing. Jiří Namyslo, Marek Pavelka, Ing. Marcel Šihor, Ph.D., MBA, MSc, Ing. Daniela Vedrová, Ing. David Vykydal, Ph.D. Special acknowledgements: doc. Ing. et Ing. František Kuda, CSc. Photographs: Ing. Petr Havlíček, VSB-TUO Archive Graphic design and typesetting: Mgr. Štěpánka Komínková 1st edition, Ostrava 2024 © 2024 VSB – Technical University of Ostrava ISBN 978-80-248-4771-9 (on-line) https://doi.org/10.31490/9788024847719