SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

VSB - Techncial University of Ostrava is dedicated to fulfilling SDG 6 by ensuring access to clean, safe, and sustainable water, promoting responsible use, and effectively treating wastewater, all while supporting local well-being and aligning with global water quality and environmental standards. 

The drinking water on the VSB-TUO campus comes from the public water supply system, managed by Ostravské vodárny a kanalizace (OVAK), which ensures the proper treatment and distribution of water sourced from several locations. The primary sources include surface water from the Kružberk reservoir on the Moravice River and the Šance reservoir on the Ostravice River, providing 60–65% of the total drinking water supply to Ostrava, with the remaining 35–40% coming from groundwater sources in the Ostrava-Karviná region. The water undergoes thorough treatment and regular monitoring to meet the strict hygiene standards set by Decree No. 252/2004 Coll. and EU Directive 2020/2184, ensuring its safety for consumption.

6.2 Water consumption per person

6.2.1. Water consumption tracking

The total volume of water used at VSB - Technical University of Ostrava is measured. Water is drawn from 38 collection points, which are digitally monitored at regular intervals.

6.2.2. Volume of water used in the university

The total volume of water consumed at the University in 2025 is 99,227 m³.

To discover key statistics and insights about our campus sustainability efforts, visit the Campus in numbers page.

6.3 Water usage and care

6.3.1. Wastewater treatment

The established process for wastewater treatment at the University involves discharging all wastewater into the sewer system, where it is further treated through a three-stage purification process at the municipal wastewater treatment plant. This ensures that the treated water meets all standards for discharge into watercourses, specifically complying with EN 12255, the standard related to urban wastewater treatment plants. Additionally, the University canteen is equipped with grease traps to prevent fats from entering the drainage system, thus protecting the sewer network from blockages.

ČSN EN 12255-11

The standard ČSN EN 12255-11 specifies general design data for wastewater treatment plants.

https://shop.normy.biz/detail/518464

OVAK

Ostravské vodárny a kanalizace (OVAK) is a key utility company in the city of Ostrava, Czech Republic, responsible for water supply and wastewater management. OVAK provides clean drinking water to residents, manages sewage systems, and oversees wastewater treatment to protect local water resources and the environment. The company often collaborates with the city to maintain and upgrade water infrastructure, ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable water management.
https://www.ovak.cz/

6.3.2. Preventing water system pollution 

The University has established processes to prevent polluted water and hazardous substances from entering the sewerage system and the aquatic environment, including procedures for handling incidents and accidental spills. Wastewater from University facilities is discharged through the centralised municipal sewerage system and conveyed to a municipal wastewater treatment plant for treatment.

University dining facilities are equipped with grease traps to capture fats and oils before wastewater enters the sewerage system, thereby reducing the risk of blockages and contamination.

Chemical laboratories use designated containers for the collection and safe disposal of chemical substances and hazardous waste. Chemicals are not disposed of through the sewerage system. Their handling, storage and disposal are carried out in accordance with applicable regulations, internal procedures and relevant safety data sheets, ensuring that hazardous substances are properly managed and do not enter wastewater.

6.3.3. Free drinking water provided

VSB - Technical University of Ostrava campus provides nine strategically placed water dispensers, offering free access to chilled, filtered water, both still and sparkling, for students, staff, and visitors. Equipped with high-quality activated carbon filters that are regularly replaced, these dispensers ensure safe and great-tasting water while promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing single-use plastic waste.

Drinking water dispenser	Drinking water fountain
Map of water refill stations on the main VSB-TUO campus

6.3.4. Water-conscious building standards

Water-efficient building design and sustainable water management form an important part of VSB – Technical University of Ostrava's approach to the construction and modernisation of campus infrastructure. These principles are supported by the University's Sustainable Development Strategy, approved in 2024 . The strategy establishes institutional objectives for efficient water management, reducing water consumption and promoting water reuse in accordance with circular economy principles.

New buildings constructed since 2022 are designed to incorporate rainwater harvesting systems for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, helping to minimise potable water consumption. Similar water management solutions are also implemented during renovations of existing campus buildings, where technically feasible.

In addition to rainwater reuse systems, the University has implemented water-saving taps and efficient flushing systems across various campus buildings. Some facilities are also equipped with waterless urinals, contributing to the reduction of overall water consumption.

The University has invested in underground rainwater retention and storage tanks to support sustainable water management. Currently, four storage tanks with a combined capacity of 234 m³ are installed across the campus. These systems enable the collection and reuse of rainwater for suitable non-potable applications, including toilet flushing and irrigation.

The design of rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse systems is informed by relevant European technical standards, including EN 16941-1, covering on-site rainwater systems, and EN 16941-2, covering systems for the use of treated greywater.

The University's Sustainable Development Strategy establishes a measurable target to reduce overall water consumption by 20% by 2030 compared to 2023 levels. These strategic commitments support the continuous improvement of water efficiency and the integration of sustainable water management solutions into campus development.

Sustainable building certification – SBToolCZ

Sustainable building assessment is another important component of the University's approach to new construction projects. VSB-TUO promotes the application of the SBToolCZ certification system to assess the environmental performance of buildings and support sustainable construction from the early design stages.

The SBToolCZ methodology includes environmental assessment criteria related to efficient water management, potable water consumption, rainwater management and the responsible use of natural resources. These criteria support the integration of water-efficient technologies and sustainable water management solutions into building design.

As an example, the University's planned Science Centre, currently in the design phase, has been awarded a Silver-level SBToolCZ certificate for its building design. This independent sustainability assessment demonstrates the integration of environmental and sustainability principles into the development of new university infrastructure.

The obtained certificate provides additional evidence of the University's commitment to sustainable building design and the application of recognised environmental assessment criteria, including those related to water management.

Silver-level SBToolCZ certificate awarded to the Science Centre project of VSB-TUO during the design phase.

Supporting documents and evidence

• Sustainable Development Strategy 2024+ – University Operations
• Rainwater Management at VSB-TUO
• SBToolCZ – National Building Sustainability Certification System

Examples of implemented water-saving solutions

Waterless urinals
Underground rainwater retention tanks and water treatment technology in the CEETe building

6.3.5. Water-conscious planting

The vegetation cover on the University campus is designed with a focus on minimising water consumption and supporting natural water retention. Plant species are carefully selected with regard to local conditions, drought resistance, landscape design and their contribution to the regional ecosystem.

The University has already established two flower meadow areas with a total area of approximately 1,500 m². These areas support biodiversity while also improving the soil’s ability to retain water and reducing the need for intensive irrigation and maintenance. An additional approximately 1,000 m² is being prepared with a stronger focus on rainwater retention and sustainable landscape management.

The University is also planning the construction of a rain garden near the Library building. The rain garden will help capture and retain stormwater, reduce surface runoff and support gradual infiltration of rainwater into the soil.

6.4.1 Water re-use policy

VSB – Technical University of Ostrava is committed to maximising water reuse and promoting sustainable water resource management across its campus. This commitment is embedded in the University's Sustainable Development Strategy, approved in 2024, which provides an institutional framework for reducing water consumption, promoting water reuse and implementing circular economy principles in university operations.

The strategy, particularly its University Operations section, explicitly identifies efficient and sustainable water management, including reducing water consumption and reusing water, as one of the University's strategic objectives.

To achieve these objectives, the University has established specific measures, including:

• Installing underground storage tanks for collecting rainwater and greywater.
• Reusing collected water for non-potable purposes, particularly toilet flushing and landscape irrigation.
• Integrating water reuse solutions into campus infrastructure development and modernisation.
• Reducing overall water consumption by 20% by 2030 compared to 2023 levels.

The University Bursar is responsible for the implementation of the relevant strategic measures.

These commitments are supported by practical water management solutions across the campus. The University currently operates four rainwater storage tanks with a combined capacity of 234 m³, supporting the collection and reuse of rainwater for selected non-potable purposes.

The University's approach is further supported by its Rainwater Management Study, which provides a technical basis for developing rainwater collection, retention and reuse systems.

Through its approved Sustainable Development Strategy and the implementation of water reuse measures, VSB-TUO systematically promotes efficient water resource management, reduces the use of potable water for applications where alternative water sources are suitable, and supports sustainable campus development.

Supporting documents and evidence:

• Sustainable Development Strategy – University Operations (approved in 2024)
• Rainwater Management at VSB-TUO

6.4.2. Water re-use measurement

VSB – Technical University of Ostrava monitors water reuse in campus buildings equipped with systems for rainwater harvesting, greywater management and non-potable water distribution. These measures form part of the University's commitment to sustainable water management, as established in its Sustainable Development Strategy, approved in 2024 .

Water reuse measurement is implemented in the Faculty of Economics (EKF) and CEETe buildings, which are equipped with water reuse systems and infrastructure for the distribution of non-potable water. Monitoring supports the evaluation of reused water quantities, water efficiency and reductions in potable water consumption during building operations.

At the CEETe building, rainwater is used for green hydrogen production, irrigation of the vertical garden and toilet flushing. The building also incorporates greywater management technologies. The monitoring systems provide operational data to support the assessment and optimisation of water reuse.

Across the University campus, collected rainwater is used primarily for toilet flushing, landscape irrigation and selected operational purposes. 

The total installed rainwater storage capacity is 234 m³. Additional retention tanks with a combined capacity of 70 m³ are planned for buildings D and E. These systems contribute to reducing potable water consumption and support sustainable campus operations.

Rainwater management is further enhanced by extensive green and permeable surfaces that enable natural infiltration. The total infiltration area of the campus is 150,929 m², supporting stormwater retention and reducing surface runoff.

Through operational monitoring in the EKF and CEETe buildings, VSB-TUO supports the systematic evaluation of water reuse, improved water efficiency and the further development of sustainable water management across its campus.

Supporting documents and evidence

• Sustainable Development Strategy 2024+ – University Operations
• Rainwater Management at VSB-TUO
• CEET – Centre for Energy and Environmental Technologies

6.5 Water in the community

6.5.1. Water management educational opportunities

The Department of Environmental Engineering at the Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB-TUO provides a range of specialised lectures specifically designed to supplement education on environmentally focused topics, several of which directly address good water management practices. These topics include:

Modrozelená infrastruktura a adaptační opatření na klimatické změny
Blue-Green Infrastructure and Climate Change Adaptation Measures

Voda – strategická surovina
Water – A Strategic Resource

Vodní dobrodružství – cesta od starověkých pramenů po moderní čistírny
Water Adventures – From Ancient Springs to Modern Treatment Plants

Farmaka ve vodách
Pharmaceuticals in Water

Mikropolutanty ve vodě – skrytá hrozba pro životní prostředí
Micropollutants in Water – A Hidden Environmental Threat

Pitná voda – odkud se bere a co v ní (ne)chceme mít
Drinking Water – Where It Comes From and What Should (or Should Not) Be In It

For more information, visit https://www.hgf.vsb.cz/546/cs/spoluprace/kurzy-a seminare/nabidka_odbornych_prednasek/ (link available in Czech). 

During the European Sustainable Development Week, VSB-TUO organises lectures such as TUER – Returning Water and Life to the Landscape, focusing on nature-based solutions that enhance water retention and strengthen climate resilience in both rural and urban environments.

The University also runs the Art & Science educational competition for secondary school students on the topic The Secret of Clean Water: How Do Filters Work?, raising environmental awareness among young people and promoting responsible water stewardship beyond the University community.

   

6.5.3 Off-campus water conservation support

VSB – Technical University of Ostrava actively supports water conservation and sustainable water management beyond its campus through applied research, technological innovation and cooperation with external organisations. In 2025, the University continued to develop solutions addressing water quality, water treatment, alternative water resources and environmental protection, with particular emphasis on the Moravian-Silesian Region.

Research and cooperation with external partners

The Department of Environmental Engineering at the Faculty of Mining and Geology conducts research and professional activities focused on cleaner production, water treatment, waste management and pollution assessment.

Its activities include water purification technologies, the evaluation of pollutants in surface waters and biotechnological methods for removing inorganic contaminants. This expertise supports the development of sustainable water management solutions for applications beyond the University campus.

The University also cooperates with external organisations, including Ostravské vodárny a kanalizace (OVAK), Povodí Odry and the Water Research Institute. These partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange, applied research and the development of solutions addressing water quality and sustainable water resource management.

Further information: Faculty research , Department partners and Water Treatment and Analysis .

REWAISE – Resilient Water Innovation for Smart Economy

In 2025, VSB-TUO continued its participation in the international REWAISE project, supported by the European Union's Horizon 2020 programme.

The project brings together research institutions, water utilities and industrial partners to develop innovative approaches to sustainable water management, alternative water resources and circular water use.

VSB-TUO contributes expertise in low-energy desalination, mine water treatment and the recovery of valuable minerals from mine water. These research activities support the development of technologies with potential applications in regional water management and industrial water reuse.

Further information: REWAISE – International Water Innovation Project .

REFRESH – Research Excellence for Region Sustainability and High-tech Industries

The REFRESH project is a major strategic research initiative supporting the environmental and economic transformation of the Moravian-Silesian Region. In 2025, the project advanced research into innovative environmental technologies, sustainable resource management and solutions for water treatment.

Research activities within the project include the development of advanced materials and membrane technologies for wastewater purification, removal of heavy metals, resource recovery and environmental remediation.

In May 2025, the University highlighted its research into advanced membrane technologies through the REFRESH Energy Lab, with a focus on efficient water purification, removal of contaminants and recycling of valuable resources.

In November 2025, researchers from VSB-TUO and Palacky University Olomouc presented an innovative filtration membrane capable of removing harmful bacteria and toxic heavy metals from water in a single treatment step. The technology operates without additional energy or chemical disinfectants and has demonstrated potential for use at pilot scale.

These research results support the development of accessible water treatment solutions with potential applications in industrial wastewater treatment, drinking water purification and environmental protection beyond the University campus.

Further information: Advanced Membrane Technologies – May 2025 and Innovative Water Purification Membrane – November 2025 .

Advanced Hybrid Nanomaterials for Water Purification

In 2025, VSB-TUO launched the international applied research project Advanced Hybrid Nanomaterials for Efficient Photo(electro)catalytic Water Purification and Hydrogen Production (2025–2028), supported by the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic under the M-ERA.NET programme.

The project focuses on the development of innovative hybrid nanomaterials for water purification using photocatalytic and electrocatalytic processes.

Its objectives include improving the efficiency and sustainability of water treatment technologies while supporting scalable solutions for real-world environmental applications.

The project involves international research cooperation and contributes to the development of technologies addressing water pollution and the availability of clean water beyond the University campus.

Further information: Advanced Hybrid Nanomaterials – Research Project TQ17000001 .

Through these research projects and partnerships, VSB-TUO contributes to the development of sustainable water treatment technologies, the protection of water resources and the practical application of scientific knowledge to environmental challenges beyond its campus.

6.5.4. Sustainable water extraction on campus

At VSB - Technical University of Ostrava campus in Ostrava-Poruba, drinking water comes from the public water supply system, managed by Ostravské vodárny a kanalizace (OVAK). This water is sourced from several key locations. The main sources of drinking water are surface water from the Kružberk reservoir on the Moravice River and the Šance reservoir on the Ostravice River, which together provide 60–65% of Ostrava's drinking water supply. Additionally, groundwater sources from the Ostrava-Karviná region cover 35–40% of consumption.

The water undergoes thorough treatment and regular monitoring to meet strict hygiene standards and ensure it is safe for daily use. The quality of drinking water is maintained according to the strict hygiene regulations of Decree No. 252/2004 Coll. and EU Directive 2020/2184, which set limits for physical-chemical, microbiological, and organoleptic properties of the water.

Sustainable technologies and innovations of OVAK 

• Hydropuls – Regeneration of groundwater sources and wells: OVAK has implemented the Hydropuls technology, which uses impulsive expansion of compressed gas or liquid to clean and regenerate wells. The method is approved according to DVGW Document W 130.
• Smart Metering – Smart consumption measurement of water: OVAK is deploying a “smart metering” system for water meters, which allows remote readings, access to current and historical consumption data, earlier detection of leaks behind the meter, and better resource management. 

https://www.ovak.cz/spol_tech/ 

https://www.ovak.cz/Hydropuls/

https://www.ovak.cz/TK_SM/ 

Cooperation with Public Authorities and Water Management Institutions

VSB – Technical University of Ostrava supports water security through cooperation with public institutions, regional authorities, water management organisations and international project partners.

These partnerships connect scientific research with regional environmental priorities, the protection of water resources and the development of sustainable water management technologies.

Regional Cooperation – Moravian-Silesian Region

The REFRESH project contributes to the sustainable transformation of the Moravian-Silesian Region through research in environmental technologies, advanced materials and resource efficiency.

The project is implemented by VSB-TUO in partnership with the University of Ostrava and the Moravian-Silesian Innovation Centre (MSIC).

Its water-related research includes advanced water purification technologies, membrane separation processes, contaminant removal and environmental remediation.

The project provides a framework for transferring scientific knowledge into technologies relevant to regional environmental protection and industrial water management.

Supporting evidence: REFRESH – Official Project Information and Regional Partnership .

National Cooperation – Environmental Policy and Innovation

REFRESH is supported through the Just Transition Operational Programme, administered by the Czech Ministry of the Environment with the involvement of the State Environmental Fund of the Czech Republic.

This national funding and institutional framework supports research infrastructure, environmental innovation and the transfer of new technologies into practice.

Within REFRESH, water purification, resource recovery and environmental remediation research contribute technological expertise relevant to national environmental priorities.

Supporting evidence: REFRESH – Just Transition Programme .

Local and Regional Water Management Cooperation

The Department of Environmental Engineering at the Faculty of Mining and Geology maintains professional cooperation with water management and environmental organisations.

Its partners include Ostravske vodarny a kanalizace (OVAK), Povodi Odry and the Water Research Institute.

These relationships provide opportunities for professional consultation, knowledge exchange and applied research in water treatment, water quality and environmental protection.

Supporting evidence: Department of Environmental Engineering – External Cooperation Partners .

International Cooperation – REWAISE and Public Water Authorities

The international REWAISE project (2020–2025) provides an example of cooperation between universities, water utilities, municipalities and public environmental institutions.

VSB-TUO participates alongside partners including the City of Malmo (Sweden), VA SYD (Sweden), Aquanet (Poland) and the Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas (IETU, Poland).

These partners contribute to water resource management, wastewater treatment, alternative water supply and the development of innovative approaches to water governance.

The project uses a network of nine Living Labs across Europe, including a Continental Hub covering Ostrava, Poznan and Skane.

These Living Labs demonstrate technologies and management approaches addressing water reuse, alternative water resources, nutrient recovery and sustainable water supply.

REWAISE also supports the development of governance models and knowledge transfer relevant to municipalities and public water services.

Supporting evidence:

• REWAISE – Consortium and Public Partners
• REWAISE – European Living Labs
• REWAISE – Water Security and Governance
• European Commission – REWAISE Project and Consortium

6.5.6. Promoting conscious water usage on campus

VSB – Technical University of Ostrava actively promotes conscious and responsible water use across the campus through a combination of monitoring, water-saving infrastructure, rainwater reuse, sustainable landscaping, and awareness-raising measures.

• Water consumption is systematically monitored across 38 water collection points using digital monitoring. This enables the University to track consumption trends, identify opportunities for optimisation, and support more efficient water management.
• Four underground rainwater retention tanks with a total capacity of 234 m³ are currently in active use at the VSH, Building J, EKF, and CEETe buildings. Collected rainwater is reused primarily for toilet flushing, irrigation of green areas, and other operational purposes, reducing demand for potable water.
• The University is continuing to expand this infrastructure. Additional retention tanks with a combined capacity of 70 m³ are planned for Buildings D and E.
• At the CEETe building, rainwater is used for toilet flushing, irrigation of the vertical garden, and green hydrogen production. The building also operates with a greywater system and serves as a pilot site for the future expansion of water reuse monitoring across the University.
• New and refurbished buildings incorporate water-saving technologies, including water-efficient taps and flushing systems, waterless urinals, and systems designed to use rainwater for toilet flushing and irrigation.
• The campus includes approximately 150,929 m² of infiltration and permeable areas, which support natural rainwater infiltration, reduce surface runoff, and improve water retention within the campus.
• Campus landscaping is designed with an emphasis on low water consumption. Drought-resistant and locally appropriate plant species are used, and flower meadows are being developed to improve water retention in the soil while supporting biodiversity.
• Filtered drinking-water dispensers provide free access to drinking water for students, staff, and visitors. Through the Water without Packaging initiative, the University also encourages the use of reusable bottles and promotes tap water as an alternative to single-use bottled water.

These measures demonstrate that conscious water use at VSB-TUO is promoted not only through technical infrastructure, but also through systematic monitoring, reuse of rainwater and greywater, sustainable campus design, and initiatives that encourage students and employees to use water responsibly.

More information: Rainwater management at VSB-TUO and Water without Packaging.