Design in an Age of Uncertainty

How important is sustainability in an age of uncertainty? We think very. We do not just talk about sustainability as a fashionable statement; we are committed to make it an integral part of the conference. But can an international conference with global audience ever be sustainable? We believe that academic discussion is best held in person and unfortunately this often includes overseas travel. Yet there are many ways a conference can be sustainable, some more obvious, some less. Let me outline some of the main principles that we follow.

We encourage our delegates to use trains and coaches to get to Brno. The campus is easily accessible on foot and by public transport. All other venues are also within walking distance or reachable in minutes by public transport. Check out the Arrival & Getting Around section where you can also find information about bikes and scooters that can be rented easily in Brno.

Masaryk University has a clear policy for saving resources, recycling and reducing carbon footprint. During the conference, you will find clearly marked recycling bins and you can refill your bottle in the water fountains or in the Lokni filtered water dispensers. We will refrain from unnecessary gifts and conference freebies. Honestly, how many conference tote bags do you already have at home?

We take a complex look at sustainability and link it to access and inclusion. We want everyone to have a great experience at the conference. Barrier free access is without a question and we provide interpreting of the keynotes to Czech, to make them available to wider and local audiences.

Conferences also offer lots of food. We make our best to limit food waste and we work with local charities. We choose our catering suppliers wisely: our catering is local and based on seasonal products.

We reduce print matter to minimum. While you can still pick up a paper programme, most of the information is available online, easily accessible through a QR code.

In short, here's what you can expect in Brno: 

• A campus easily reached on foot, by public transport, or by bike/scooter rental
• Clearly marked recycling bins throughout the venue
• Water fountains and Lokni filtered dispensers for your reusable bottle
• No unnecessary gifts or conference freebies
• Barrier-free access across conference venues
• Czech interpreting of keynotes
• Local, seasonal catering with minimal food waste, in partnership with local charities
• Reduced print matter  

We won't resolve every issue, but we’re trying our best.

Any questions? Get in touch at dhs2026@muni.cz.