Emirates Green Building Councils’ team and its members recently held a distinct privilege of meeting with Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan the President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA) and the Honorary President of EmiratesGBC. This significant gathering united key leaders to explore pathways for advancing sustainability in the built environment.
The event began with a welcome speech from Habiba Al Mar’ashi, setting the stage for Her Highness’s inspiring opening remarks, which underscored the importance of sustainable development and collaborative efforts in the built environment. Following this impactful address, Cristina Gamboa, CEO of the World Green Building Council, presented her keynote titled “Building the Sustainable Transition of Global Property and Construction Markets by 2030.”
Cristina outlined WorldGBC’s ambitious strategy for 2025-2027, designed to fast-track progress over the next 2,000 days. She emphasized the importance of collaboration among over 75 Green Building Councils and their 46,000-strong business network..
The meeting facilitated insightful discussions, open Q&A sessions, and valuable networking opportunities with leaders dedicated to sustainability.
A heartfelt thank you to Her Highness and all participants for their commitment to creating a lasting impact.

The MENA Green Building Awards have garnered incredible participation this year, with 86 applications from 59 companies across 8 countries in the region. With the judging process completed, we look forward to honoring the trailblazing projects and sustainable practices that are shaping the future of the built environment.

The shortlisted candidates have already been announced, and we invite you to join us for an exciting evening of recognition and networking. The ceremony and gala dinner will take place on November 12, 2024, at the JW Marriott Marina, beginning at 6:00 PM.

For those interested in supporting this prestigious event, sponsorship opportunities are still available. Learn more here: [Link].

To secure your place at the gala dinner, please register via the following link: [Registration Link].

We are excited to present an enlightening interview series with Dr. Sadek Owainati, Co-Founder and Honorary Board Member of the Emirates Green Building Council, Founding Chair of the MENA Green Building Council Network, and sponsor of the prestigious Dr. Owainati Student Excellence Award.

This series will span multiple issues, offering an in-depth look at his impactful contributions and visionary insights.

PART (4)

• Advice for Young Professionals: What advice would you give to young professionals and students who aspire to make a significant impact in the field of sustainable real estate development and environmental management? How can they get involved with EGBC and its initiatives?

The impact of climate change on our planet has already been felt throughout the world and combating its potential damages is the responsibility of all of us: private citizens, supporters of the environment, NGOs, academia, corporations, international institutions and governments.

The reality is that its impact will continue to be felt over many decades and the worst of its devastating impact on human life has yet to come. We are currently observing the challenges in predicting weather conditions due to many interrelated and intervening atmospheric patterns and oceanic conditions. Scientific studies indicate varying effect of climate change on different parts of the world with difficulty to predict specific damages in vulnerable regions with heat waves, wildfires and draughts sometime followed by heavy rains and floods. However, it is certain that countries located near the coasts will be impacted more, albeit with varying degree. The Gulf region unfortunately falls under this category and special attention is necessary to combat its effects and expected rising sea levels.

It is well established that the building sector, throughout its lifespan, is a major contributor to manmade emissions, estimated at about 39% of greenhouse gas emissions globally with its embodied emissions at about 11%. Consider just one major construction material cement – its manufacturing process adds about 8% to total carbon dioxide gas emissions worldwide.

In principle, it is recommended for the young generation of the region, who will definitely experience more of the impacts caused by climate change in their life, get involved by studying and pursuing careers that help deliver solutions to help mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Development of sophisticated software capabilities with huge investments in computing infrastructure and emerging new technologies including robotic engineering with artificial intelligence capabilities as well as 3D printing are already in use. The future is to expand  the idea of smart buildings to smart cities, and it is already underway. These important developments present new opportunities inviting the youth to be part of the emerging digital world and provide them openings to participate in creative modelling of buildings behaviour and smart operations. Digital solutions for better planning of urban developments can help identify and devise measures essential to combat serious future challenges anticipated from varying climatic conditions facing the world at large.

Arab countries can reap great benefits by paying special attention to educating the youth who are currently estimated at more than 80 million and are expected to grow to about 110 million by 2030. Obtaining access to technological knowledge and experience would be highly recommended. Having an engineering academic qualification can be enhanced with further advanced studies to have an active role in harvesting huge untapped opportunities in the region. Utilizing the abundance of capabilities of the digital world will provide future generations added flexibility and multi-faceted opportunities for work and career options.

Abdullatif AlBitawi , CEO, Emirates Green building council, participated as a distinguished panellist at panel, titled “From Concept to Operation: Decarbonisation Strategies and Whole Life Cycle Thinking in Sustainable Urban Developments,” Organized by RICS and hosted at Expo City. The panel explored innovative approaches to sustainability across urban development projects.

Abdullatif was joined by industry experts, including Anil Sawhney, Head of Sustainability at RICS, Dr. Ioannis Spanos, VP Sustainability at Expo City and Hani Abdel Razeq, Director of Sustainability at AESG. The session was moderated by Claire Munro FRICS, Chair of the RICS UAE Regional Advisory Board, creating a dynamic conversation on the future of sustainable cities.

Emirates Green Building Council participated in the MENA Climate Proof Forum, where CEO Abdullatif AlBitawi presented on “Global Policy Principles for a Sustainable Built Environment.” This initiative, led by the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) and its global GBC network, outlines essential principles aimed at guiding governments in developing impactful building policies and programs. Mr. AlBitawi emphasized that a comprehensive adoption of these principles enables policymakers at all government levels to shape transformative policies that align with the Paris Agreement’s targets and WorldGBC’s vision for a sustainable future.

Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC) has proudly launched its new Sustainability Lounge, a thoughtfully designed co-working space for members, dedicated to advancing sustainable building practices. This lounge aims to serve as a central hub for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, promoting solutions that drive sustainability across the built environment.

The design and concept of the Lounge were brought to life by GRFN, the consultancy behind the project’s vision. GRFN is a multidisciplinary firm renowned for creating spaces that embody sustainability and innovation. Their team drew the unique shape of the Lounge, meticulously planning every feature to align with occupant wellbeing and environmental best practices.

Located within the EmiratesGBC office, the Lounge incorporates several zones that were crafted using sustainable, responsibly sourced materials. The Sustainability Lounge houses the Wall of Fame, where members can display their innovative products and initiatives, creating a platform for recognizing achievements and sharing best practices in sustainability in addition to the Nourishment Space, where members can enjoy a cup of tea or grab a fresh herb from the green wall. The Lounge also features the zone of Sokoon, the quiet room that was acoustically treated to ensure the member can have a private call inside or read an article with peace of mind. Another zone within the lounge is the Ibtikar, where a smaller team of the members can come together to co-create. Furthermore, there is the zone of Tawasul, the most central seating area, where members can brainstorm innovative ideas together. Finally, Ta’awon Zone, where members can co-work and share ideas.

Taking the above functionalities in mind, and ensuring the Sustainability Lounge caters to private, small, and large working groups, technical workshops, and trainings, the making of the lounge features the below materials:

• High-performance acoustic absorbers that enhance sound comfort in any environment, use of post-consumer recycled materials  and Ultra-low iron content recycled glass materials  eliminates the greenish tint, ensuring unrivalled clarity and brilliance, superior light transmittance capabilities, maximises natural illumination, creating bright and inviting environments by Saint-Gobain, improving both environmental quality and sound comfort.
• RAK Ceramics’ RE-USE series, featuring RE-USE Quartz and RE-USE Mineral, porcelain tiles made entirely from 100% pre-consumer recycled materials contributing to sustainable resource use.
• Ultra-low VOC paint with anti-mold properties and easy-to-clean surface from AkzoNobel, providing a safer indoor environment.
• Living green walls by Skytech Engineering, using fabric pocket structures to enhance air quality and support water recirculation.

Furniture and Materials Crafted for Sustainability
The Lounge’s furniture is a testament to EmiratesGBC’s commitment to reducing waste. It incorporates recycled plastic sourced from post-industrial waste, reupholstered fabrics, and eco-friendly materials made from palm waste and manufactured locally to minimize carbon emissions.

Further sustainable elements include:

• Energy-efficient water tap, delivering filtered boiling, chilled, and sparkling water on demand while reducing energy consumption.
• Industrial hemp curtains, recognized as one of the most sustainable fibers globally.

Ensuring the lounge was thoroughly prepared and aligned with sustainability standards, FARNEK, a leader in sustainable facility management, performed a comprehensive deep cleaning before the official launch. FARNEK utilized environmentally friendly cleaning materials and sustainable practices to prepare the space, ensuring it reflects EmiratesGBC’s values of health and well-being from day one.

This dynamic space offers an inspiring setting for our members to meet, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions to environmental challenges. We invite our members to visit the Sustainability Lounge, collaborate with like-minded professionals, and help drive our collective vision for a sustainable future. For more details, please visit our Sustainability Lounge webpage.

The highly anticipated MENA Green Building Awards and Gala Dinner will take place on November 12, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the JW Marriott , Dubai Marina. The evening promises to be recognizing the most innovative and impactful sustainable projects across the region.

📢 Register now to secure your spot: [Registration Link]

We look forward to welcoming all participants and stakeholders for the event!

The Sustainable Infrastructure Blueprint ,Energy, Air Quality, and Well-being Focus Day recently showcased groundbreaking solutions in energy efficiency, green building practices, and carbon footprint reduction.

A key highlight of the event was a comprehensive presentation on iPaint, an innovative, electricity-free cooling paint that significantly enhances energy savings by reflecting solar heat back into space. Designed to improve indoor air quality and reduce reliance on air conditioning, iPaint has garnered recognition for its low VOC emissions and environmental certifications, positioning it as a transformative solution for sustainable construction.

Co-hosted by Emirates Green Building Council and Leading Hospitality Services (LHS), this session provided attendees with the opportunity to:

• Learn how iPaint and other sustainable technologies can reshape the built environment.
• Engage in expert panel discussions focused on energy efficiency and infrastructure innovations.
• Network with thought leaders committed to reducing carbon emissions and promoting healthier, sustainable spaces.

The agenda featured opening remarks by Khaled Bushnaq, keynote speeches from Atul Kapil, and expert presentations by Dr. Martin on cooling technologies and Ranya Fernandes on innovative air quality management. Panel discussions with industry leaders explored the future of energy-efficient infrastructure.

The EmiratesGBC 11th Technical Workshop for members by members will be By Meyiar The workshop will be held in person, on the 29th of November . at Emirates Green Building Council Sustainability Lounge.

We will be sending out the invites soon!

The Green Key programme is a leading standard of excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. It is operated internationally under the management of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) with Head Offices in Copenhagen, Denmark. FEE has national member organisations in more than 70 countries worldwide where Emirates Green Building Council is the national operator in the United Arab Emirates.

Twenty One newly Green Key certified hotels are joining the sustainability family:

Grand Heights Hotel Apartment

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

Towers Rotana Hotel Dubai

Address Dubai Mall

The Dubai EDITION

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

Fairmont Dubai

Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club

Royal Rose Abu Dhabi

Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort

Vida Emirates Hills Hotel

SLS Dubai

SO/ Uptown Dubai Hotel

Hyde Hotel

Ibis styles Jumeriah

Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

Banyan Tree Dubai

Fairmont Ajman

Kempinski the Boulevard

The second edition of the RAK Energy Summit will be held under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. Scheduled for 27 and 28 November 2024 at the Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Center in Ras Al Khaimah, this summit promises to be a premier gathering of international and regional experts and leaders from both the government and private sectors. Attendees will engage in insightful discussions on emerging trends and initiatives in sustainable energy, exploring innovative solutions to the pressing challenges in this field.

Emirates Green Building Council members will receive a 10% discount on attendance. Additionally, technology and solution providers from our community will enjoy a 10% discount for exhibiting or presenting a showcase at the event.

In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, Future Sustainability Forum serves as a beacon of hope, uniting diverse perspectives and expertise to chart a path towards greener economies and a more resilient planet. Building on the highly successful launch last year, the 2nd edition of Future Sustainability Forum, organized by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), encapsulates UAE’s recent focus on accomplishing Net-Zero goals by 2050. The Forum brings together visionaries, innovators, and change-makers from across the globe to collaborate, inspire, and drive meaningful action towards a more sustainable future.

Under the theme “Shaping Greener Economies”, the Forum explores the intersection of sustainability, innovation, blended finance and collective action. From renewable energy and circular economy practices to climate resilience and social equity, conferences will delve into the multifaceted aspects of sustainability, recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental, economic, and social well-being.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to connect with Global Sustainability leaders at the 2nd Annual Future Sustainability Forum, happening on 4-5 December 2024 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

Let’s shape Greener economies together! 🌱

1. Want to Sponsor? https://bit.ly/45GmSv5
2. Book Tickets: https://bit.ly/3xkwfnu
3. Know More: https://bit.ly/3xte5Qr

Khaled Bushnaq, Chairman of EmiratesGBC, discusses the challenges and opportunities being encountered by the UAE as it progresses towards a more sustainable future

Read More

The Holcim Foundation Awards, the world’s most significant competition for sustainable design, are now accepting submissions until February 11, 2025. The Awards are an initiative of the Holcim Foundation which is based in Zurich, Switzerland and operates as an independent non-profit organization focused on supporting changemakers and promoting sustainable solutions within the built environment. Holcim, a global leader in sustainable construction, sponsors the Foundation and is a strong partner and advocate of the Awards.

As part of Holcim’s global network, our member, Lafarge, is extending this opportunity to the EmiratesGBC community. Explore further details about the Holcim Foundation Awards through the following link.

https://awards.holcimfoundation.org/home?utm_source=EGBC&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=HFAwards2025

Deepika Verma

ESG Manager

innovo

Reducing concrete waste on project sites can significantly lower environmental impact. Implementing strategies such as optimizing designs to minimize concrete use, the timely return of unused concrete to suppliers for reuse, and the use of waste concrete for base layers in construction, like that used for porta cabins, are effective solutions. Coordinating logistics to create nearby pick-up locations and managing time efficiently further enhances sustainability.

Also, the use of hollow concrete slabs reduces weight and materials, cutting down concrete volume and emissions. Precast systems and voided slab designs also offer structural and environmental benefits, showcasing how the management of concrete waste can be improved

We want to feature your success stories. Please share with us your accomplishments in relation to the green building industry and allow us to feature you in our newsletter.

For more information, please contact reema.aburuqaa@emiratesgbc.org.

4. Mercedes Gargallo 

5. Associate, Arup

6. 1. Who You Are:

• Beyond your professional role, tell us a bit about yourself. What drives and inspires you personally? Whether it’s hobbies, interests, or values, we’d love to learn more about the person behind the professional achievements.

I am a Doctor in Architecture specialized in building envelopes, with 19 years of experience in the field. Beyond my professional role, I believe in living a balanced and purpose-driven life, and there are five daily actions that shape who I am. I always aim to learn something new, often through reading or research at work. Staying healthy is a priority, and I focus on it through nutritious meals and evening walks. Giving back is fundamental, whether by supporting a colleague or helping my children with their homework. I value community, recognizing the importance of relationships with neighbours, colleagues, and clients. Lastly, I dedicate time to mindfulness, reflecting on who I am and where I am headed.

              2. Career Journey and Achievements:

• • • Can you share a brief overview of your career journey in the field of sustainability? What achievements or projects are you most proud of in advancing sustainable practices?

I’ve had the privilege of working on groundbreaking projects and advancing building envelope design in various capacities. Early in my career, I contributed to the pioneering Masdar City buildings, which, 15 years later, still serve as a benchmark in sustainable design. In 2012, I was involved in designing an innovative timber curtain wall for a London refurbishment project that received several awards. After relocating to the UAE 11 years ago, I contributed to the development of the new terminal at Zayed International Airport. More recently, I played a key role in the development of the 2021 Dubai Building Code, collaborating with authorities, and led Arup’s interdisciplinary team of architects, engineers, and sustainability consultants in designing Masdar City net zero energy mosque.

                  3. Challenges and Triumphs: 

• • • As a woman in the sustainability sector, have you faced any specific challenges, and how did you overcome them? On the flip side, what triumphs or successes have been particularly meaningful in your career? 

Fortunately, I haven’t faced specific challenges as a woman at work, particularly in the UAE. I am often the foreigner, smaller in size, and perceived as younger than I am, but I’ve turned these into strengths. Being different in a room often gives me a unique platform; when I speak, people tend to listen. This sense of being underestimated has actually fueled my confidence and drive. Each time I contribute to a project or conversation, I know I’m making an impact, and these moments of positive surprise have been my triumphs.

              4. Impact and Advice:

• • • How do you see your role contributing to the broader goals of sustainability? Additionally, what advice would you offer to other women aspiring to make a difference in the field of sustainability? 

My role connects policy with practical solutions, from collaborating with governments to helping developers enhance the environmental footprint of their portfolios. As professionals in this field, we must recognize the influential role we play. Whether through our work on specific projects, participation in research, or involvement in conferences, our actions have the power to inspire others and set new sustainability standards. The legacy we leave behind should make us proud and reflect our commitment to improving the built environment. To women in the field, my advice is to always push boundaries and never settle for merely repeating past successes. Constant innovation is key. Engage with organizations like EGBC for support and to stay at the forefront of sustainable practices. We have the power to drive lasting change and set an example for generations to come.

Members of the Emirates Green Building Council can join in any of our technical programs with this link, to advance their knowledge on the program’s relevant topics, contribute to its growth, and sponsor its events. We are working on several ideas related to our programs: Coalition for Green Schools, Better Places for People, Net Zero Center of Excellence, Energy Efficiency, Green Key and Benchmarking Program.

Kindly send us an email to office@emiratesgbc.org to inquire about any of the mentioned technical programs.

If you are interested in using the EmiratesGBC Sustainability Lounge for a workshop or a meeting, kindly get in touch with us at 04-3468244 or send us an email to office@emiratesgbc.org. The office room is fully equipped with AV and provides a pleasant environment for focused meetings or training workshops.