SOVAK ČR Honors Prof. Jan Bartáček and Assoc. Prof. David Stránský for Their Lifetime Contribution to the Water Industry
November 4, 2026 / 1:51 PM
At the Water Supply and Sewerage Operations 2026 Conference, held on 3 and 4 November 2026 at the Brno Exhibition Centre, the Czech Water and Wastewater Association (SOVAK ČR) awarded honorary membership to two distinguished figures in the Czech water sector. The award, recognizing their long-term contribution to the development of the industry, was presented to Prof. Ing. Jan Bartáček, Ph.D. from the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague (UCT Prague) and Assoc. Prof. Ing. David Stránský, Ph.D. from the Faculty of Civil Engineering at the Czech Technical University in Prague (CTU Prague).
Both experts have long been involved in scientific research, educating the next generation of water professionals, and developing innovative solutions for sustainable water management. The awards were presented during the conference by Ing. Vilém Žák, Director and Member of the Board of Directors of SOVAK ČR.
Professor Jan Bartáček's professional work focuses on modern wastewater treatment technologies, water recycling, energy recovery from wastewater, and the digitalization of water infrastructure. He has also made significant contributions to research on the removal of pharmaceutical residues from wastewater and the use of wastewater data for epidemiological purposes.
Assoc. Prof. David Stránský is one of the Czech Republic’s leading experts in urban drainage, stormwater management, and blue-green infrastructure. His work contributes to the development of solutions that help cities better respond to the impacts of climate change, including droughts and extreme rainfall events.
Upon receiving the awards, both laureates emphasized the importance of cooperation between academia, professional institutions, and water utilities. According to them, linking scientific knowledge with the everyday needs of the sector is essential for the further development of the Czech water industry.
This year’s award also included a symbolic gift: a drinking glass for tap water created by renowned Czech glass artist Jiří Pačinek.
