Photovoltaic power plants
A new photovoltaic power plant with a capacity of almost 300 kWp has been installed on the roofs of buildings R, X, M, N, Q and P on the university campus. It consists of 663 solar panels, each with a capacity of 450 Wp.
Green roofs and walls
Green roofs and walls at MENDELU help improve the local microclimate, cool the areas around buildings and support biodiversity across the university campus. They also contribute to a more pleasant environment for studying, working and relaxing.
Apiary
The MENDELU campus is also home to an apiary, which supports biodiversity and highlights the importance of pollinators for the landscape and the food system.
Local and in-house production of fish, eggs and game
MENDELU supports local and in-house food production. The university’s facilities include the production of eggs, fish and game, reflecting its specialist areas of expertise while also contributing to shorter supply chains and practical teaching.
Canteen X – Buffet-style food service
The buffet-style system at canteen X allows diners to choose a portion size that suits their needs, helping to reduce food waste.
REkrabičky reusable food containers
Since March 2023, takeaway meals in MENDELU canteens have been served exclusively in reusable REkrabičky containers. The deposit-return system helps reduce the use of disposable packaging and the amount of waste generated by catering services.
E-waste collection containers
MENDELU supports the separate collection of electronic waste through dedicated containers located across the university campus. These help ensure more environmentally responsible disposal and recycling of unwanted electrical equipment and batteries.
REuse sharing shelf in building O
The REuse sharing shelf in Building O provides a space for sharing and reusing items. Alongside books, items such as vinyl records, mugs and small promotional products can find a new home instead of going unused.
LOKNI Filtered water dispensers (Buildings Q, C and Z, JAK Halls of Residence)
LOKNI filtered water dispensers are available across the MENDELU campus, allowing students and staff to refill their own bottles instead of buying bottled water. This helps reduce the use of single-use plastics while encouraging regular hydration.
DNA benches and relaxation areas
Building Q also has a study area, while Building C offers two chill-out zones. Benches and relaxation areas across the MENDELU campus provide spaces to unwind, take a break and cool down under the trees during the summer. They support wellbeing and contribute to a more pleasant university environment.
AED Defibrillators (Buildings B and Q)
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are available on the MENDELU campus and can help save lives in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.
CSR MENDELU
The CSR MENDELU Volunteer Centre promotes volunteering, community engagement and socially responsible activities.
Bicycle storage (Building Q)
Secure bicycle storage provides facilities for cyclists and supports more sustainable travel to the MENDELU campus.
Standardised recycling bins
A standardised system of recycling bins and waste labels makes waste sorting clearer and easier and encourages correct recycling across the university campus.
Bring your own cup
Students and staff can use their own mugs or reusable cups at coffee machines across MENDELU. This encourages reuse and helps reduce unnecessary single-use waste.
Sustainability news newsletter
The Sustainability News newsletter regularly shares information about projects, initiatives and sustainability trends at MENDELU and beyond. Published monthly, it helps connect the university community and provides inspiration across a range of sustainable development topics.
Mendel Green
Mendel Green magazine regularly features sustainability-related topics, projects and people at MENDELU.
MENDELU Sustainability strategy 2025–2030
The MENDELU Sustainability Strategy 2025–2030 sets out the university’s key objectives and direction in the areas of environmental, social and institutional responsibility. It links MENDELU’s long-term vision with specific steps towards more sustainable university operations.
Vice-Rector for strategy, sustainability and special-Purpose Activities & Sustainability manager
Sustainability at MENDELU is represented both at the strategic level within the university’s senior management and through the day-to-day coordination of specific sustainability initiatives and projects.
Sustainability Team at MENDELU
The Sustainability Team brings together people from across MENDELU who work together to advance sustainable development, social responsibility and wellbeing. The team contributes to projects, communication and practical measures that help create a more sustainable university environment.
Rector’s committee for strategy, sustainability and investment
The Rector’s committee for strategy, sustainability and investment connects the university’s long-term development with the principles of sustainability and responsible planning.
Chair of the Czech Rectors Conference Working Group on Sustainability
MENDELU chairs the Czech Rectors Conference Working Group on Sustainability
Forest climate change adaptation strategy
The Masaryk Forest Křtiny University Forest Enterprise implements a climate change adaptation strategy aimed at developing more resilient and species-diverse forest ecosystems.
Stockholm Junior Water Prize
MENDELU hosts the national round of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, a competition that encourages young people to engage with water protection, sustainability and scientific research.
Food Waste processing equipment
MENDELU uses food waste processing equipment at its halls of residence, enabling more sustainable management of food waste generated by its catering facilities.
Digital twin of the arboretum – Smart irrigation
In cooperation with Nextdrop, MENDELU has developed a smart irrigation project at its Arboretum based on the concept of a digital twin. Modern technologies help improve water management, monitor environmental conditions and optimise the care of plants and green spaces.
Social Entrepreneurship Conference, Day of Non-profit organisations and social enterprises, Dobrotrh & Mind Fest
CSR MENDELU regularly organises events focusing on social responsibility, volunteering and the promotion of social entrepreneurship.
LED Lighting, building insulation and heat pumps
MENDELU is gradually implementing measures to improve the energy efficiency of its buildings, including LED lighting, building insulation and heat pumps. Improvements are carried out with consideration for the character of individual buildings and, where applicable, heritage conservation requirements.
University Training Enterprises (UFE Křtiny, UAE Žabčice)
MENDELU’s enterprises provide a unique opportunity to connect teaching and research with practical experience in areas such as landscape management, food production and responsible land management. They also provide a real-world environment for innovation and the application of sustainable approaches.
Botanical Garden and Arboreta (Brno, Křtiny, Řícmanice and Habrůvka)
MENDELU’s Botanical Garden and arboreta provide spaces for education, research and relaxation while also contributing to the conservation and understanding of plant diversity.
Forest Pantheon and In praise of trees
The Forest Pantheon and In Praise of Trees highlight the importance of trees, forests and landscape stewardship as part of MENDELU’s heritage.
Restricted Parking within the University Campus
Carbon Offsetting and the HEROES Forest
Through its involvement in the HEROES consortium, MENDELU also engages with issues related to carbon footprints, landscape conservation and the role of forests in the context of climate change.
Sustainability Reports
MENDELU’s Sustainability Reports provide an overview of the university’s activities, achievements and objectives in the field of sustainability.
Counselling services at the Institute of Lifelong Learning
The MENDELU Institute of Lifelong Learning provides students and staff with professional career, nutritional and psychological counselling. These services support wellbeing and personal development and contribute to a supportive university environment.
MENDELU Food advisory centre - Poradna potraviny MENDELU
The MENDELU Poradna potraviny MENDELU provides professional advice on nutrition, food and healthy lifestyles.
Participation in UNILEAD and NPO Green Deal projects
Through the UNILEAD and NPO projects, MENDELU contributes to advancing sustainability across Czech universities and supporting measures related to the objectives of the European Green Deal.
Máňa – MENDELU’s electric vehicle
MENDELU uses an electric vehicle, nicknamed Máňa, as part of its university operations, contributing to lower-emission mobility and more sustainable transport on campus.