How is the Czech Republic doing when it comes to water reserves? Who is Water Resources Management the ideal field for, and how do its graduates fare? We asked Tomáš Kuchovský and Adam Říčka.
Let me start with a childlike question. If there were a shortage of water in nature, could we make water in a laboratory?
Water (H₂O) can theoretically be synthesized in a lab by combining hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂), but the process is extremely energy-intensive. For example, producing hydrogen through water electrolysis requires up to 60 kWh per kilogram of H₂, which is highly inefficient. In essence, you’d be making water from water. Artificial production only makes sense for ultra-pure water needed in specific technologies, like pharmaceuticals or microelectronics. Otherwise, it’s not economically viable—a single Liter of lab-made water would cost far more than extracting it from natural sources. Water is, after all, abundant on Earth. Scientists focus much more on purifying and treating existing water than on synthesizing it. Even desalinating seawater is far more efficient than making water “from scratch.”
What do you see as the most pressing challenges in water resource management today?
The challenges are both global and local. Globally, we face issues like physical or economic water scarcity, pollution, and the impacts of climate change, all of which affect the availability and quality of water resources. One example is India, where misguided subsidies have led to over-extraction of groundwater, causing serious ecological problems.
In the Czech Republic, water issues are more likely to be local shortages or contamination of surface and groundwater. Experts need to be able to assess these challenges and develop effective strategies to address them. Efficient water management, resource protection, and climate adaptation are key to a sustainable water future.
What risks threaten water resources, and how can humans influence them? What does this mean for the quantity and usability of water?
Based on our latest studies, for example at the Čeperka water resource near Pardubice—which supplies over 100,000 people—even the Czech Republic could face water shortages. We’re not talking about an acute crisis in the near future, but rather a “comfort shortage” that could arise in 30 to 40 years, according to climate projections and hydrogeological models.
This means water won’t be drastically scarce, but its availability may be limited compared to today’s standards. Water sources may not be able to provide the same volumes as now, so we’ll need to start using water more sparingly.
How does the Czech Republic rank in terms of water consumption?
Czechs have long been among the most water-efficient nations in Europe when it comes to household use. Water-saving habits are deeply rooted here, which is certainly good news.
On the other hand, we still waste high-quality drinking water on uses where it isn’t necessary—like flushing toilets or watering gardens—when recycled, rain, or technical water could be used instead.
What can we do about this?
The solution is to introduce separate water systems for different uses. Some modern buildings already do this, but the approach needs to become more widespread. Using recycled or rainwater for flushing, for example, can significantly reduce pressure on water sources.
Will climate change force changes in agriculture as well?
Yes, that’s likely. Every crop has different water needs, and as the climate changes, we’ll need to adapt our land use accordingly. History is full of examples where poor crop choices destroyed not only water sources but also the soil itself.
How can the Water Resources Management program help address current water supply issues?
One of the main benefits of this program is preparing specialists who understand the complex relationships between water use and other interests in the landscape—agriculture, mining, urban development, and infrastructure. These interests often directly conflict with water protection. For example, growing crops for biofuels like rapeseed or corn increases pesticide use, which can contaminate groundwater. Similarly, gravel extraction—essential for construction—can threaten water sources, especially those linked to river sediments.
Who is Water Resources Management the right choice for?
The program is ideal for those with a broad interest in nature, water, and the environment. You don’t need deep specialization in a single field. Students learn the basics of geology, geography, chemistry, biology, as well as law and economics. Communication and presentation skills are also emphasized, with assignments simulating real-world problems.
What skills and knowledge will graduates have?
To propose effective water use solutions or properly assess landscape changes, graduates need to understand both surface and groundwater dynamics. This is key to producing high-quality assessments that determine the usability of specific water sources. The program is highly practical. Industry professionals often approach the faculty seeking absolvents—demand is consistently high. Unfortunately, many job positions are still filled by people without the necessary qualifications, which can have serious long-term ecological and economic consequences.
Where do graduates typically find employment?
Most work in private companies focused on hydrogeology, geological surveys, mining, or remediation. Others join the public sector—water authorities, regional or municipal offices, or ministries.
Typical roles include hydrogeologist, waterworks designer, project manager, or groundwater protection specialist. With the required professional certification, graduates can also work as independent consultants after several years of experience.
So, is there high demand for these graduates?
Absolutely. In the Czech Republic, about a thousand new wells are drilled and over five thousand expert reports on small water sources are prepared annually. Every new building permit also requires a professional assessment of water infiltration. The demand for qualified professionals keeps growing—and this program prepares graduates to meet these challenges.
How popular is the Water Resources Management program among applicants?
The program is now in its third year, but this is the first year it’s offered as a standalone degree. The goal is to have around 20–30 students per year at the bachelor’s level. They can choose specializations—from mineral waters, through water protection and remediation, to calculating reserves for specific sources. Our program responds to urgent labor market needs and climate challenges. It offers a diverse and meaningful path for anyone interested in water, the landscape, and their future.
Photo: Archives of the Institute of Geological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University
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