From the moment you stepped onto our campus, you may have noticed a few little details – filtered water stations, colour-coded recycling bins and green spaces blending into the University campus. You probably also discovered them in your welcome pack.

None of these elements was chosen by chance. Together, they reflect our commitment to creating a more sustainable campus and a conference experience that is both welcoming and environmentally responsible.

Let's take a closer look at how sustainabilitvy is part of everyday life at our University.

An Eco-Friendly Campus

At the University of Economics in Katowice, sustainability is more than a declaration – it is part of how we design our campus, organise events and support our academic community. Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals and our commitment to social responsibility, we continuously introduce initiatives that help reduce our environmental footprint while making our campus a better place to study, work and visit.

Green Campus

One of the University's newest spaces is the Green Campus, located within Building A. It was designed with respect for the natural environment, using durable and environmentally responsible materials built to last. The pathways are made from a permeable mineral-epoxy surface that allows rainwater to soak naturally into the ground, improving water retention and reducing surface runoff.

In the near future, the Green Campus will also host the Laboratory of Economic Climate Education, developed as part of the Silesian Climate Centre project. The laboratory will support educational demonstrations and student activities focused on renewable energy, climate adaptation and biodiversity.

The inner walls of Building A are decorated with a mural by the renowned Katowice artist Wojciech Walczyk. Beyond its artistic value, the mural also contributes to environmental protection. It was created using innovative photocatalytic anti-smog paints that, when exposed to light, help neutralise air pollutants and eliminate microorganisms, supporting cleaner air and a healthier environment.

Paperless Conference

We made every effort to reduce unnecessary printing and organise the Forum as a paperless conference.

The agenda was not printed and was instead available online via QR codes. Registration was handled digitally, and we did not provide printed notebooks or paper materials unless absolutely necessary. This helped us reduce paper use while ensuring that participants had easy access to updated information throughout the event.

Free Filtered Water

Fresh filtered drinking water is available free of charge to all members and guests of our academic community. Nine water stations across the campus provide cold, hot and sparkling water, making it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day.

For more than five years, our "Be Eco(nomic) – Drink Filtered Water at UEKat!" initiative has helped reduce single-use plastic while encouraging sustainable everyday habits. Simply refill your bottle and enjoy.

Selective Waste Collection

Recycling is part of everyday life on campus. Colour-coded waste bins are available throughout all University buildings, making it easy to sort waste correctly. If you are ever unsure, simply follow the clear guidance displayed above each recycling station.

Green Travel

Participants were encouraged to choose lower-emission travel options wherever possible, such as trains, long-distance buses, shared transport, public transport, cycling or walking. We know this was not always easy, especially during the heat wave affecting Europe at the time of the Forum, which made some journeys more challenging.

All off-campus programme points were also planned with sustainable group mobility in mind. Wherever possible, participants travelled by tram or shared bus, reducing the need for individual transport and helping us lower the environmental impact of the Forum.

If you would like to estimate the impact of your journey, you may use a travel carbon footprint calculator, such as the Green Circle Solutions' calculator.

Eco-Friendly Welcome Pack

Your welcome pack for the Forum has been carefully put together with sustainability in mind. From the double-insulated stainless steel water bottle to the bee bomb, each item has been selected to be practical, durable and environmentally friendly. See our fantastic volunteers in action as they unwrap the welcome packs for you!