Heavy industry is vital for the residents of the Moravian-Silesian Region, and VSB-TUO is playing a key role in its transformation.

According to a survey conducted by the Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic and Trinec Ironworks, carried out by STEM/MARK, nearly 95 percent of the residents of the Moravian-Silesian Region (MSK) consider heavy industry to be an important element of regional development. The survey results highlight the need for greener industry practices and environmental protection. In this context, VSB-TUO’s involvement in strategic initiatives, such as the REFRESH project, is crucial for the region’s transformation and professional training.

Respondents see the benefits mainly in providing jobs, contributing to the regional economy, or supporting local businesses. Notably, 68% of participants believe that heavy industry is indispensable to the Moravian-Silesian Region.  They also appreciate the positive impacts of industry on infrastructure development and education, while simultaneously valuing environmental considerations; a substantial 78 percent believe heavy industry can operate in an environmentally sustainable manner. Over 80 percent of respondents acknowledge the industry’s beneficial influence on infrastructure and education growth.

VSB-TUO as a catalyst for change

The technologies developed through VSB-TUO and the REFRESH initiative, the main instrument for the implementation of the SMARAGD strategy for the transformation of the Moravian-Silesian Region into a “smart and green” one funded by the Operational Programme Just Transition, are designed to enhance energy efficiency, promote sustainable operations, and incorporate elements of Industry 4.0. “Our mission is to assist the region, and thereby local businesses, in their economic, financial, and environmental transitions while also considering their societal impacts. Projects involving the Technical University of Ostrava, totaling over CZK 5 billion, are contributing to this development,” explained Igor Ivan, Vice-Rector of the Technical University of Ostrava, noting the university’s collaboration with more than 200 companies, including Trinec Ironworks. He also mentioned other strategic initiatives, such as TRAUTOM and CirkArena, which align with the SMARAGD vision.

Education responds to industry changes

During the press conference, it was emphasized that education must evolve alongside industry changes. In particular, VSB-TUO is developing a study program in Green Technologies that focuses on sustainable production and processing of metallic, polymer, ceramic, and composite materials utilizing green energy, including hydrogen. “This program will comprehensively cover modern manufacturing processes and technologies, emphasizing digitization and automation to enhance production efficiency and sustainability,” Ivan added. He also highlighted the growing demand for IT engineers, mechanical engineers, civil engineers, safety engineers, and other professions within the steel industry. “We are coming up with new programs in response to emerging manufacturing trends,” the Vice-Rector stressed.

Community attachment and regional development

More than a third of the region’s population has firsthand experience with the steel industry, and research indicates that the closure of this sector would have profound social and economic repercussions, diminishing the region’s national significance. A notable 77 percent of residents would respond negatively to the steel industry’s closure.

“The survey results clearly illustrate how deeply ingrained heavy industry is in the identity of the Moravian-Silesian region and its people. The steel industry serves not only as an economic backbone but also as a custodian of traditions, expertise, and cultural heritage. Therefore, state support for this sector is essential not only for strategic growth but primarily for local employment,” stated Jan Rafaj, President of the Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic.

Challenges facing the steel industry according to MSK residents

Respondents also identified key challenges confronting the steel industry in MSK. 57 percent of respondents see environmental protection and emission reduction as the primary challenge, while over half consider modernization investments crucial for maintaining competitiveness.

“It’s encouraging that residents recognize the challenges we face regarding emission reduction and modernization investments. Their awareness reflects an understanding of the industry’s close ties to the region. The most pressing current challenge is decarbonizing steel production which fundamentally transforms production technology and necessitates an investment exceeding CZK 20 billion. This transition will significantly lower our carbon footprint in compliance with European regulations. However, support from the state and region is indispensable,” stated Roman Heide, CEO of Trinec Ironworks.

Rising pride in Ostrava’s industrial sector

Over the past 11 years, perceptions of Ostrava’s industry have shifted dramatically. In 2013, a slightly negative outlook was prevalent, with 22 percent of residents viewing the industry negatively compared to 20 percent positively. Today, however, this trend has reversed: 35 percent of residents hold a positive view, while only 11 percent view it negatively. Additionally, pride in the local industry has risen from 60 percent to 73 percent, and the belief that industry harms the environment has declined from 78 percent to 63 percent.

The data were collected through an online questionnaire conducted from July 3 to July 12, 2024, with 1,000 residents of the MSK aged 15 to 70 participating in the survey.