Water
Long-term drought and water scarcity in the landscape is a major threat to us. Masaryk University is therefore planning and taking measures to responsibly manage this precious resource.
News:
Mendel Days (1 - 2 November 2023)
This year's Mendel Days focused on the broader context of Mendel's legacy. The main theme of the Mendel Days was a thematic lecture block called "in a Skácelovian way" The Four Elements: prayer for water.
Programme and videos from lectures are available at the link below (CZ only).
Savings measures under the #MUNIsaves campaign
Data from savings studies:
- A full-flow battery consumes up to 8 litres per minute more than when used economically.
- With a two-level flush, consumption is up to 6 litres less drinking water per flush on economy.
- In the extreme case of a malfunction, over 600 litres of drinking water per hour will flow through the toilet.
Organisational recommendation:
- Do not run taps at full flow unless necessary.
- Check for leakage when the tap is turned off.
- Use economy on dual flush toilets.
- In the event of a leaking toilet or urinal, report the fault to the operations staff immediately.
Development of drinking water consumption at MU in 2019 - 2023 (estimated as of 31 October 2023)
Our objectives
In its long-term strategic plan for 2021-2028, Masaryk University commits to responsible water management with the following goals and measures.
Main strategic objective
- In accordance with the principles of sustainable development, manage energy resources, water and waste and strengthen informed management enabling the efficient use of the built premises as well as property management.
Key results
- Energy, water and waste management strategies implemented and their measurable effects
- Creation and implementation of strategies for energy, water and waste management.
- Implementation of systemic measures to reduce the volume of non recyclable waste produced, to increase the share renewable energy sources used, for saving water, the use of rainwater and the use of grey water
- Establishing a training system for employees and students for the efficient and environmentally responsible operation of the university
- Producing clear principles of efficient and responsible management of energy and water and motivation of students and employees to comply with them
Implementation and plans at MUNI
Done
Water management in the Bohunice University Campus
A very specific example of environmental responsibility is the ever-growing Bohunice Campus of Masaryk University (UCB), where most of the roofs are green and there are other measures to manage rainwater. As an example of good practice, the decentralised drainage system of the UKB is also mentioned on the website www.pocitamesvodou.cz under the auspices of the Ministry of the Environment.
Given the size of the UCB, this specific system was already a unique concept at the time of its implementation, not only for dealing with localised flooding, pollution of rivers by diluted sewage, but also for reducing the intensity of soil erosion in some places. In addition, the system of detention basins and planted greenery in the university campus improves microclimatic conditions, the retained water evaporates into the surroundings, humidifies the environment and thus reduces temperature and dust. According to the latest feasibility study for further use of rainwater on the UKB campus, the construction of 22 remotely controlled underground storage tanks with an estimated volume of 460 m3 is planned.
Lokni filtered water dispensers
Filtered water dispensers by Lokni are now available at five faculties of Masaryk University. They provide an easy and environmentally friendly way to access clean water, with options for both still and sparkling variants. Activation of the dispenser is possible through a QR code in the accompanying app, which also offers consumption summaries and tracks the number of saved plastic bottles. Lokni dispensers are currently available at the Faculty of Economics and Administration, the Faculty of Education, the Faculty of Arts, the Faculty of Social Studies, and newly at the University Campus in Bohunice.
Practical tips for everyone
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Recommendations
Involvement of students and staff
Students and staff on campus, including residence halls and canteens, can make a significant contribution to water conservation through their responsible actions.Basic recommendations from the university's water conservation plan:
"Love water. Let's use double flush toilets, the difference is up to 6 litres of potable water consumption per use. Don't run taps at full flow unless necessary, the difference in potable water consumption is up to 8 litres per minute."
Share your experience
Inspire others. Write to us about your projects or experiences with sustainable water management at your faculty or workplace.
