Dear EGBC Members,
Joining the Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC) as Vice Chair at this pivotal moment, directly after COP28, is both exciting and inspiring. This is a time of action, following a significant outcome for the UAE and the world, and I am proud to be part of an organization that played an active role in these developments.
Working with our dedicated Board of Directors and implementation team has been an enriching experience. We are united in our commitment to understanding and improving the state of the council, and I am motivated by our shared vision.
EGBC has made significant strides in promoting sustainable building practices in the UAE and beyond. We have raised awareness, influenced policy, and fostered collaborations to expand the practice of green buildings. In 2023, we partnered with the COP28 High Level Champion, Her Excellency Razan Al Mubarak, and her team, to publish UAE Sustainability Built Environment Blueprint for the buildings sector, further establishing EGBC as a catalyst for green buildings. With the UAE leading regionally in green buildings certification, we are proud to be a source of technical knowledge and a driver of change.
As EGBC continues to evolve, we remain committed to fostering partnerships, bringing ideas and companies together, and leading research and benchmarks. Our focus is on amplifying the movement towards decarbonization by focusing on education, data management, and implementing the strategies outlined in the sustainability blueprint and the UAE’s first Long Term Strategy.
We are aware of the challenges that lie ahead, particularly in terms of fragmentation and affordability. However, we are committed to finding innovative financing solutions and ensuring a just transition for all.
Our collaborations and partnerships are crucial in advancing our sustainability goals. By engaging stakeholders across sectors, we can leverage our position in a country that leads in sustainability to bring about solutions that benefit everyone. We encourage all members and stakeholders to actively participate, share their challenges, contribute innovative ideas, and propose collaborations.
As we navigate the path towards achieving net zero by 2050, we recognize the challenges that lie ahead. However, with your engagement, empowerment, and support, EGBC can serve as a pivotal force in expediting progress and building on the foundation laid during the year of sustainability and COP28.
My aspirations for EGBC center around becoming a hub for innovation, scaling up solutions, and overcoming challenges in data management and slow scalability. By empowering and supporting EGBC as the center for making things happen, we can continue to build a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement with EGBC. We look forward to working with you to achieve our sustainability goals.
Mohammad Jebreel
Vice Chairman, Emirates Green Building Council.
EmiratesGBC News and Updates
EmiratesGBC Annual Congress 2024 “Beyond COP28: The Role of Sustainable Built Environment to Act and Deliver on the UAE Consensus”
On the 12th and 13th of June, the EmiratesGBC will be holding its 13th Annual Congress titled: “Beyond COP28: The Role of Sustainable Built Environment to Act and Deliver on the UAE Consensus”.
The congress will address six different themes under the topic.
Theme 1 COP28: Outcomes and Actions ,
Theme 2: Near Zero and Resilient Buildings by 2030 ,
Theme 3 : Funding the Transition ,
Theme 4: Accelerating Zero and Low Emission Technologies,
Theme 5 :Green Procurement
Theme 6 :Innovative Policy Making in the Building Transition.
To sponsor our flagship Annual Congress click here!
EmiratesGBC Empowers Tomorrow's Sustainability Champions at RIT Career Day
Emirates Green Building Council had the privilege of participating in the recent RIT Career Day, where we had the pleasure of engaging with a group of passionate students who demonstrated a keen interest in sustainability. It was inspiring to witness their enthusiasm for environmental conservation and their eagerness to contribute to the field. Many of these talented individuals expressed a desire to deepen their involvement with EmiratesGBC and explore opportunities for further engagement
Sustainable Lifestyle Advocacy: Insights from Abdullatif Al Bitawi at Top Filipino Engineers & Architects Summit
Emiratesgbc director Abdullatif Al Bitawi, contributed his expertise to the panel discussion on “Sustainable Lifestyle: Green Buildings, Renewable Energy, and Environmental Conservation” at the Top Filipino Engineers & Architects In the Middle East Summit on March 1st. Alongside Joel Tadeo of AESG, Abdullatif shared valuable insights into the importance of adopting sustainable practices in the built environment and promoting environmental conservation initiatives.
Director Abdullatif Al Bitawi Contributes to Discussion on Net Zero Action at Energy & Sustainability Summit
At the Energy & Sustainability Summit held on March 7th, our Director, Abdullatif Al Bitawi, played a pivotal role in the panel discussion themed “Post COP28: Net Zero Action.” The panel delved into strategies for the construction sector to intensify its efforts towards achieving Net Zero targets. Moderated by Farah Naz from AECOM, the session brought together distinguished experts including Dr. Ali Amiri from egis, Dr. Ioannis representing EXPO City, and Ahmad Labeeb from KEO International. Abdullatif Al Bitawi’s insightful contributions and expertise contributed significantly to the discourse on advancing sustainability goals in the built environment.
Upcoming EmiratesGBC Events
Closing the Loop: Integrating Circular Economy Principles in Smart Cities panel discussion
At the upcoming World Future Energy Summit, we’re excited to host a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Closing the Loop of Circular Economy within Smart Cities.” With a diverse lineup of speakers, this panel will offer versatile perspectives on integrating circular economy principles within smart city frameworks. Experts will explore strategies for sustainable resource management, waste reduction, innovation, and policymaking, highlighting the critical role of circular economy in shaping resilient and sustainable urban environments.
EmiratesGBC Technical Workshop for Members by Members by AkzoNobel
EmiratesGBC 4th Technical Workshop for members by members will be on sustainability in Paints and Coatings, from the manufacturing process to the finish product in the tin By AkzoNobel Exclusive to EmiratesGBC members, the workshop will be in-person format at emirates Green building council Office, 3:00 -4:00 PM on the 25th of April, We will be sending out the invites soon!
Previous EmiratesGBC Events
Launch of UAE Sustainable Built Environment Blueprint Report: A Collaborative Effort Towards Climate Action
Emirates Green Building Council, in collaboration with HSBC and the High-Level Climate Champions, proudly launched the UAE Sustainable Built Environment Blueprint Report at the Sustainable Cities in Action Summit held in Expo City Dubai. Endorsed by both the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure (MOEIUAE) and the Ministry of Climate Change & Environment, this comprehensive report represents the culmination of extensive workshops with prominent real-estate developers and financial institutions. For more detailed insights, you can access the full report through this link
Re-imagining Cities for the Future Workshop
In collaboration with the World Green Building Council, Emirates Green Building Council hosted an engaging interactive workshop titled ‘Re-imagining Cities for the Future.’ This workshop provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions and brainstorming sessions aimed at envisioning vibrant, sustainable urban landscapes. Participants delved into innovative solutions to address urban challenges and explored strategies for fostering environmentally conscious spaces.
Emirates Green Building Council Report Launch Better Places for People
Emirates Green building Council released of the latest report titled ‘Health, Wellbeing, and Productivity in Green Offices.’ This comprehensive report delves into the analysis of various aspects of health, wellbeing, and productivity in green office spaces. It offers valuable insights by comparing UAE guidelines with global building codes, highlighting the importance of prioritizing health and wellbeing in office environments. Through this report, we aim to contribute to the promotion of healthier and more productive workspaces in line with international standards and best practices.
you can read the full report through this link
Women Network Mentorship Program Launch
The 3rd cohort of the EmiratesGBC Women’s Network Mentorship Program had been launched. This initiative offers valuable opportunities for mentorship and professional growth within EmiratesGBC, bringing together mentors and mentees to foster collaboration and leadership in sustainable built environments. We are excited about the potential for this program to contribute to the personal and professional development of our members, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community.
Women international day at women pavilion Expo City
The EmiratesGBC Women’s Network was proud to participate in the Women’s Pavilion of EXPO City Dubai, where we delivered an inspiring session titled “Igniting Inspiration: Women Leading Change in Sustainable Built Environments.” This session aimed to showcase the significant contributions of women in advancing sustainability and to inspire actionable change within our industry. A highlight of the session was a Fireside Chat between Ms. Farah Yassine and Ms. Alida Saleh, which provided valuable insights and perspectives on the role of women in driving positive change in sustainable development.
EmiratesGBC Monthly Technical Workshop by Readymix Gulf a member of Holcim
On the 8th of March, Readymix Gulf a member of Holcim conducted the EmiratesGBC 3rd technical workshop for 2024, on “Decarbonizing UAE’s Build Environment“, you can view the workshop presentation through this link
EmiratesGBC Technical Workshop for Members by Members
EmiratesGBC 3rd Technical Workshop on: sustainability in Paints and Coatings, from the manufacturing process to the finish product in the tin By AkzoNobel
EmiratesGBC 4th Technical Workshop for members by members will be on sustainability in Paints and Coatings, from the manufacturing process to the finish product in the tin By AkzoNobel to EmiratesGBC members, the workshop will be in-Person format , on the 25th of April. We will be sending out the invites soon!
Green Key
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.
Member Opportunities and Engagements
Academy Feature
Nathalie Poirier
Chief Executive Officer
Terrafic Energy
The building envelope plays a pivotal role in energy efficiency. A myriad of solutions can be incorporated while designing and building greenfield projects. But for existing buildings, retrofit solutions can be perceived as expensive and cumbersome.
There are, however, solutions to prevent heat to penetrate a building, which seems the most logical first step towards energy efficiency.
Thermal reflective paints, such as ClimateCoatings®, reflect infrared radiation and UV rays, offering a substantial 18.5% energy saving in typical UAE climates. With properties like low VOC’s, dust repellence and water resistance, these paints are an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice.
Transparent Heat-blocking glass coatings, such as HeatCure, blocks 99% of UV and 85% of IR without compromising the natural lighting or views. Proved temperature drops of 2–9°C during summers yield rapid ROI’s, with periods of less than one year.
Adopting such technologies minimizes the cooling demand, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In a practical example, implementing both coatings in a Dubai villa could prevent around 5 tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to a car’s yearly footprint! These innovations offer a win-win solution for economic and environmental considerations, providing a significant stride toward a greener, more sustainable future.
EmiratesGBC Women Network Monthly Spotlight !
Rima Boudaba
Who You Are:
I am a hard-working and driven individual who isn’t afraid to face a challenge. I’m passionate about my work and I know how to get the job done. I would describe myself as an open and honest person who doesn’t believe in misleading other people and tries to be fair in everything I do. I am passionate by reading books and travelling. Along with this, I also love cooking.
Career Journey and Achievements:
I am a senior sustainability and civil engineer with more than 10 years of professional experience in environmental and sustainability consulting on a variety of construction projects. I have worked on a variety of construction projects in France, UAE, and KSA, leading the environmental & sustainability supervision on a large number of development projects as well as all of the sustainability initiatives on a building & masterplan level. I am well versed in all areas of environmental and sustainability management including waste management, Life Cycle Assessment & carbon footprint, tool implementation for sustainability strategies and site supervision.
Challenges and Triumphs:
I was working for 10 years in France and was speaking mainly Arabic and French. When I moved to Dubai, I was not working for 3 years as I was looking after my daughter. Looking for a job in my field after I have been sitting idle was my first challenge, I have looked to enrol myself into training and attending events for re-connection and networking. My second challenge was the interviews I have had for big projects with the clients. Not having GCC experience was a real handicap to support my skills. My last but not least defy was my first project I have been assigned to lead, ambitious client and high-level goals, I had to overcome conflicts, coordination with different consultants, and client expectations. I’ve overcome working with difficult clients with my patience intact.
Impact and Advice:
Patience is a coveted virtue. Those who lack said trait often lack self-control in dealing with others as well.
Member Opportunities !
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.
EmiratesGBC Technical Programs
Members of the Emirates Green Building Council can join any of our technical programs linked here, 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. Please send us an email to office@emiratesgbc.org to inquire about any of the mentioned technical programs.
EmiratesGBC Office Room M-21 is now available for meetings and workshops!
If you are interested in using EmiratesGBC office space for a workshop or meeting, please get in touch with us at 04-3468244 or send us an email to office@emiratesgbc.org. The room is fully equipped with AV and provides a nice environment for focused meetings or training workshops.
Become a Member
Adopting sustainable practices at home represents a conscious choice that promotes environmental stewardship and resource conservation, thereby contributing to the well-being of both individuals and the communities in which they reside:
