The Silesian University of Technology extends cooperation with Bytom

The possibility of extending cooperation between the Silesian University of Technology and Bytom involving urban planning and renewable energy sources in particular hydrogen technology, among others, was discussed by participants at a meeting held on 6 June at Bytom City Hall.

The meeting was attended by Professor Janusz Kotowicz, Vice-Rector for Collaboration with Civic and Economic Environment, Mariusz Wołosz, Mayor of Bytom, as well as, Michał Bieda, Deputy Mayor of Bytom, Michał Staniszewski, PhD, Chairman of the City Council, and Agnieszka Labus, PhD, from the Faculty of Architecture at the Silesian University of Technology.

The topic of the meeting was the possibility of expanding cooperation between Bytom and the Silesian University of Technology to new areas concerning, among other things, the city's spatial development and collaboration in the field of renewable energy sources (RES), particularly hydrogen technologies. This topic was discussed in the context of exploiting the energy potential of the city plus the Silesian University of Technology but without the nuisance of coal mining in the protective pillars under Bytom city.

In addition, Agnieszka Labus, PhD, from the Faculty of Architecture, who deals with urban planning issues, presented the PBL project 'The Old Age of Millenials in Bytom 2060 r.". It is the concept of equal opportunities in cities, where public space is adjusted to the needs of the elderly and people with disabilities. The issue relates not only to the reduction of spatial barriers but also to the appropriate organisation of public space, e.g. pedestrian routes, the possibility of locating service premises on the ground floors of buildings, or the organisation of local community centres as places that provide a sense of security.

Master's and engineering theses were also displayed, using augmented reality technology. Using a mobile phone application, the authors of the works presented, for example, the demolished part of the palace in Miechowice or the non-existent town hall on Market Square.

The possibility of obtaining funding for these purposes was also discussed.

An agreement concluded two years ago between Bytom and the Silesian University of Technology enables joint activities and the creation of projects for which the city will seek funding. These are mainly in the fields of energy and the use of renewable energy sources, environmental protection, information technology or the revitalisation of post-industrial sites and facilities.