The United Nations has unequivocally cautioned that the world must restrict the average global temperature rise to no more than 1.5C in order to prevent irreversible climate change. With the building and construction sector contributing nearly 40% of global energy related emissions, green buildings and energy efficiency have gained a reputation of solvency to the global issue of greenhouse gas accumulation in the atmosphere.

The efficient supply and use of our energy and water is undoubtedly a valuable resource which yields significant savings in monetary terms as well as in carbon emissions. The latter is an urgent matter as carbon dioxide is fast precipitating environmental degradation and has subsequently generated a global commitment targeting its mitigation and capture.

On the ground, as the UAE government takes decisive steps into a sustainable future, the Emirates Green Building Council has solidified its position as a crucial platform to support federal and local mandates such as the UAE Vision 2021, the UAE Centennial 2071, and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 – policy frameworks designed to reduce sector-wide carbon emissions and transform the UAE into one of the most sustainable countries in the world.

Since its inception in 2006, EmiratesGBC’s efforts have given rise to awareness and accomplishments, supporting the evolution of the UAE as an established ‘green economy’. Our mission as a catalyst for sustainability is upheld as we progress through ground-breaking initiatives that are formulated to advance the rapid decarbonization of UAE buildings. The Energy Efficiency Program and database launched in 2016 is now bolstered by the Net Zero Centre of Excellence and the Building Efficiency Accelerator Benchmarking Project: key resources which provide industry sectors with the knowledge and connections they need to advance their Net Zero goals and meet important regulatory requirements.

Our collaborative platforms continue to strengthen as we expand the Council’s reach across the UAE borders. Recent years have witnessed momentous breakthroughs in the Council’s history as both our Annual MENA Green Building Awards and Annual Congress gained region-wide audiences, hosting local and global experts and stakeholders from the building and construction industries, thus increasing awareness and disseminating knowledge.

As a voice on the global sustainability platform, our Board Members engage in dedicated leadership roles at the World Green Building Council Board and the WGBC MENA Regional Network, and EmiratesGBC is also proud to be on the steering committees of the Better Places for People project and the Advancing Net Zero Project with the World Green Building Council.

At EmiratesGBC, we are at the forefront in the global movement to peak carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. Our relations with the government, private and academic sector maintain and define the map needed to rapidly increase the adoption of energy efficiency and wellbeing in our built environment. I welcome you to gain the benefits of becoming an EmiratesGBC member and contribute to a historic movement where green buildings play a role in safeguarding our longevity on our planet.