Building &co issue n5

Issue no. 5 | SEPTEMBER 2013

The Future of Construction Technology / Waterproofing of Buildings / Faรงade Preservation / Demolition of Old Buildings / Lawn: The Green Side of Architecture / Afnor Middle East Launches the ISO 50001:2001 Certification / Infrastructure Strategies, Natural Purification / Project Lebanon 2013 / Law and Order

Bui l din g & Co | SE P TE M BE R 2013

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Photo © Michel El Esta

Issue no. 5 | SEPTEMBER 2013

Contents

Cover Greenstone accomplished a construction feat by preserving the façade of the original building and actually incorporating it into the design of the new building.

The traditional building was constructed in two phases. The first two floors date back to the early 1920s. In later years, two separate additions were made, adding two new floors. By integrating the original façade of the traditional building into a modern structure, a unique fusion of past and present will breathe new life into the Abdel Wahab el-Inglizi neighborhood.

Fibrwrap Construction Lebanon The Future of Construction Technology

Afnor Middle East Launches the ISO 5000:12001 Certification

P. 6

P. 38

Waterproofing of Buildings

Infrastructure Strategies, Natural Purification

P. 12

P. 40

Façade Preservation

Project Lebanon 2013

P. 18

P. 46

Demolition of Old Buildings

Construction Materials

P. 22

P. 48

Lawn: The Green Side of Architecture

Law and Order

P. 30

P. 50

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Editorial Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth : 138 years at the service of the city...

USJ, a private Lebanese university, was founded in 1875 by the Jesuit order of priests. Its many faculties were created in response to the progressive needs of Lebanese society. This history gives us strength: Strength from our acquired experience in higher education and from our tradition of keeping up with modern times as we respond to the ever changing demands of society.

This year, we celebrate a special occasion, that of the centennial anniversary of 3 institutions: the Faculty of Medicine (founded in 1883), the Faculty of Law and Political Science as well as that of Engineering, both founded in 1913.

The dean of the Faculty of Medicine put it so well when he said that “marking a centennial is not only a time for celebration but also a time for reflection and evaluation.”

If I highlight today the Faculty of Engineering, it is because we are celebrating its 100 years. “We are proud to have educated the best engineers” said Mr. Fadi Geara, our dean of the Faculty of Engineering in his speech during the three centennial celebrations on May 16 2013. Our graduates from ESIB (Ecole Supérieure d’Ingénieurs de Beyrouth) “have proven their talent on the international arena” he added. “They are proof of quality, reliability and organization.”

Today, ESIB continues to develop its potential in the field of research and is more involved in doctorate training.

138 years in the service of the city... We want to train the best students in the region, we aim for excellence and always strive to offer our graduates, a winning ticket for the work field... and this because we have always been, throughout our history and until today, “attached to Lebanon, this land that we have helped blossom and grow.” (Father Salim Daccache, Rector of USJ).

Cynthia-Maria Ghorbil

Director of Communication and publishing department Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth www.usj.edu.lb

General Manager Nassib Nasr

Layout & Design Echo s.a.r.l.

Managing Editor Daniella Mazraani Aizarani

Copy-Editor & Translator Kamal Fayad

Photographer Michel El Esta

Consultant Alec Ibrahim

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Printing Haroun Printing Tel / Fax: 01-898745 / 6 www.harounprinting.com Edition Apave Published quarterly

Special thanks APAVE team Distributed by MEDIAREP Tel/Fax: 961 1 495395 www.mediarep.ws

We appreciate your comments: Please CONTACT US. we need your input with any suggestions or comments at: buildingco@apaveliban.com Tel: +961-1-283072 Fax: +961-1-295010

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Ghassan Hachem Civil Engineer

Fibrwrap Construction Lebanon

The Future of Construction Technology

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(figure 01)

Figure 01 A 6 μm diameter Carbon filament compared to a human Hair.

(figure 02)

(figure 03)

Figure 02 Axial enhancement – concrete columns Figure 03 Shear upgrading – concrete columns

Fibrwrap Construction Lebanon S.A.R.L (FCL) is a full service structural upgrading, retrofitting and renovation company, specializing in the design, supply and application of Advanced Composite Systems.

FCL was founded in 2010 and has since been the local leader in the design, supply and application of the Fyfe Company LLC’s Tyfo® Fibrwrap® System. We have performed structural upgrades on over 100 projects nationwide. FCL is the industry leader in the application of advanced composites. Fibrwrap is also a pioneer in the implementation of traditional structural upgrade methods.

FCL has performed state of the art structural repairs to many facilities including military installations, industrial facilities, hospitals, petrochemical plants ,cement plants, schools, churches, mosques, water and waste water sites and coastal structures. These upgrades have 8

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included seismic retrofit, overloading, change of use, corrosion control and blast hardening.

At Fibrwrap we believe that what makes us the very best structural contractor in the market is our #1 asset - our employees. Our team works together every day to provide our clients with the best possible service on every project.

FCL is committed to excellence and a desire to continue to provide turn-key, cost effective retrofit methods to our clients. This has been the cornerstone of our rapid growth.

In most countries of the world, buildings are ageing and are in constant need of maintenance or repair.

The majority of existing constructions are deficient in the light of current knowledge and design codes.

Structural deficiency of existing constructions is especially acute in seismic regions.

The direct and indirect costs of demolition and reconstruction of structurally deficient constructions are relatively high and often prohibitive.

(Fiber Reinforced Polymers) FRPs are cleaner and easier to apply than conventional retrofitting techniques.

Their use causes less disruption to the lives of occupants, as well as to the operation of the facility.

FRPs do not generate debris or waste, and reduce health and accident hazards at the construction site, as well as noise and air pollution to the surroundings.

Application: FRP’s are generally used in the following cases : • Change of use (increase of Dead Load or Live Load).

• Seismic upgrade.

• General structural upgrade .

• Low in-situ concrete compressive strength vis-à-vis design strength requirement.

• Inadequate or erroneous steel reinforcement placement in reinforced concrete members.

• Temporary construction loading with heavy equipment on elements not designed to carry such loads.

That is why Externally bonded Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRPs) are rapidly becoming the technique of

Figure 04 Flexural upgrading of concrete beams Figure 05 - 06 Shear upgrading of concrete beams

choice for structural retrofitting.

(figure 04)

(figure 05)

(figure 06)

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Figure 07 Cracks inclined at 45째 due to shear forces

(figure 07)

(figure 09)

Figure 08 Vertical cracks due to bending moment Figure 09 Reinforcing openings in slabs Figure 10 - 11 Reinforcing chruch arches Figure 12 Load test of upgraded solid slab

(figure 08)

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Item Number

Material

E (GPA)

Thickness (mm)

# of Layers

Force Tyfo (k N/m)

Check

1

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

0.5

21.0

23.5

OK

2

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

3.0

133.0

140.778

OK

3

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

2.5

98.8

117.315

OK

4

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

1.5

65.0

70.389

OK

5

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

1.5

65.0

70.389

OK

6

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

1.0

39.0

46.926

OK

7

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

2.5

111.8

117.315

OK

8

SCH 7UP

86.9

0.18

3.5

150.8

164.241

OK

9

SCH 41

82

1.00

1.0

226.2

246

OK

10

SCH 41

82

1.00

1.5

304.5

369

OK

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Force Needed (K N/m)

(figure 10)

(figure 12)

(figure 11)

NOTE: 2mm. TOTAL THICKNESS OF F.R.P. SYSTEM NOTE: FRP ANCHORS WILL BE PROVIDED AT THE EDGES OF THE FABRICS FOR FLEXURAL LOADS

2 Layers of SCH-41(//to Stimpus)

1 Layer of SCH-41 (//to Stimpus)

6 Layers of SCH-41(//to beam axe)

6 Layers of SCH-41 (//to beam axe)

SECTION A-A

610

610

610

2 LAYERS OF SCH-41

610

610

610

610

610

610

610

1 LAYER OF SCH-41 8600

610

SECTION B-A

610

610

610

2 LAYER OF SCH-41

ELEVATION VIEW

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Gaby Harfouche

Waterproofing of Buildings A Closer Look

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TYPE 5

TERRACE

TERRACE

BATHROOM /WC (2ND FLOOR)

KITCHEN (2ND FLOOR)

TYPE 4

TYPE 6 BALCONY

FIRST FLOOR

FIRST FLOOR

TYPE 6

TYPE 3

FLOWER BED

GROUND FLOOR

GROUND FLOOR

TYPE 7

WATER TANK

TYPE 2

BASEMENT FLOOR

TYPE 1

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TYPE 1

Waterproofing connection between raft & wall - section option 1

LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK

PHASE 2

CONCRETE RETAINING WALL

(AFTER RAFT POURING)

INTERIOR

EXTERIOR

Tanking System 10

To Floor: - Supply & application of double layer membrane 4mm each polyester reinforced SBS loose laid welded on overlaps.

- Geotextile as separation layer before concrete.

CARTONPLAST 2mm THICK

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CONCRETE RAFT

PHASE 1 5

GEOTEXTILE 100gr/m2

LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK

5

SCREED PROTECTION 5-8cm

To Walls: - Supply & application of double layer membrane 4mm each polyester reinforced SBS fully torch welded.

- Protection by bituminous 3mm boards or cartonplast.

WELDED DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK

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BLINDING EXCAVATION LEVEL

50cm WIDE MEMBRANE STRIP 4mm THICK APPLIED ON GROOVE

TYPE 2

Water tank waterproofing detail

NON REINFORCED HYDRAULIC CIMENT (DOUBLE LAYER)

WATER TANKS To Floor & Walls: - Supply & application of 3 coats of cementitious coating with full reinforcement.

WATER TANK

To Ceilings: - Supply & application of 2 coats of cementitious coating without reinforcement.

CONCRETE RAFT SCREED PROTECTION REINFORCED WITH FIBER MESH POLYETHYLENE SHEET 250µ GEOTEXTILE 200gr/m2 BLINDING EXCAVATION LEVEL

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LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK

REINFORCED HYDRAULIC CIMENT (TRIPLE LAYER)

TYPE 3

SLOPE 1%

FLOWER BED WATERPROOFING DETAIL

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NATURAL STONE CLADDING (WET FIXATION) STONE ADHESIVE AS PER SPECIFICATIONS SPATTERDASH COAT PLASTER

FERTILE SOIL

SPATTERDASH COAT

3g/m² NON WOVEN GEOTEXTILE FILTER 4mm SBS WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE (1ST LAYER) 4mm SBS WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE-ANTI ROOT SELF PROTECTED WITH MINERAL GRANULES (2ND LAYER) ROUNDED GRAVEL WITH NO SHARP EDGES

EQUERRE

10

5

SCREED SLOPED TO DRAIN AVERAGE 50mm

CONCRETE UPSTAND

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To Flower Boxes: - Supply & Application of double layer membrane 4mm each polyester reinforced SBS fully torch welded.

- Bituminous protection board 3mm or cartonplast 2.5mm.

- Geotextile 140 GSM. - Gravel at the height of 5cm.

- Geotextile 140 GSM. - Planting soil.

FLOWER BED STONE COPING MIX OF ADHESIVE & CRUSHED MARBLE

FIBER MASTIC REINFORCED PAINT

CONCRETE SLAB

TYPE 4

WET AREA WATERPROOFING DETAIL (KITCHEN-BATHROOMSWC)

PAINT AS PER FINISHES SCHEDULE

TILE GLUE PLASTER

PLASTER HOLLOW BLOCKWALL

REINFORCED PAINT

INTERIOR

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SKIRTING TILE TILE CEMENT-SAND SCREED

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SAND

EQUERRE

10

CEMENT-SAND SCREED SAND

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To Wet Areas: - Supply & Application of singe layer membrane 4mm polyester reinforced fully torch welded.

- Geotextile as separation layer before tiling.

BATHROOM/WC KITCHEN

GEOTEXTILE LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK CONCRETE SLAB PLASTER PAINT AS PER FINISHES SCHEDULE

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TYPE 5

SLOPE 1%

STONE COPING

ACCESSIBLE TERRACES WATERPROOFING DETAIL To Terrasse: - Supply & Application of double layer membrane 3+4mm APP loose laid, welded on overlaps if exposed.

FIBER MASTIC

MIX OF ADHESIVE & CRUSHED MARBLE

REINFORCED PAINT

NATURAL STONE CLADDING (WET FIXATION)

CONCRETE UPSTAND

STONE ADHESIVE AS PER SPECIFICATIONS CEMENT MORTAR FOR WET FIXATION SPATTERDASH COAT PLASTER SPATTERDASH COAT

MARBLE OR CEMENT TILE

Alternative: Same system as above but fully torch welded if covered by concrete and tiles.

PLASTIC FORM EXTRUDED POLYSTYRENE INSULATION (5cm)

EQUERRE

POINTED MORTAR

GEOTEXTILE DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK CONCRETE SLAB

TYPE 6

BALCONIES/ TERRACES WATERPROOFING DETAIL

EXTERIOR

INTERIOR

STONE COPING

SLOPE 1%

FIBER MASTIC

DOUBLE GLAZED ALUMINUM DOOR

MIX OF ADHESIVE & CRUSHED MARBLE

REINFORCED PAINT

NATURAL STONE CLADDING (WET FIXATION)

CONCRETE UPSTAND

STONE ADHESIVE AS PER SPECIFICATIONS

CONCRETE FORM CONCRETE SLAB

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SLOPE 1% DOWN TO DRAIN

SKIRTING TILE

SPATTERDASH COAT PLASTER SPATTERDASH COAT

F.F.L -3cm 7

TILE CEMENT SAND - SCREED SAND

F.F.L

10

SKIRTING

10

CEMENT MORTAR FOR WET FIXATION

EQUERRE CONCRETE FORM

EQUERRE CEMENT-SAND SCREED SAND GEOTEXTILE DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK WELDED

POINTED MORTAR

TYPE 7

WATERPROOFING DETAIL

LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK

15

CARTONPLAST 4mm THICK

EQUERRE

15

15

15

LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK

WATER DRAIN WATERPROOFING DETAIL

EQUERRE

CARTONPLAST 4mm THICK

STAINLESS STEEL COVER GRAVEL FILTER TILE CEMENT-SAND SCREED

TILE CEMENT-SAND SCREED

SAND

SAND

GEOTEXTILE LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK CONCRETE SLAB

FLAT EXPANSION JOINT DETAIL

PVC PIPE (Ø=3") RUBBER CYLINDER (WELDED)

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PVC PIPE (Ø=4")

GEOTEXTILE LOOSE LAID DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK CONCRETE SLAB

REMOVABLE SLAB JOINT TILE CEMENT-SAND SCREED

TILE CEMENT-SAND SCREED

SAND

SAND

DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK CONCRETE SUPPORT

FLEXIBLE CORD (BUTYL)

HYRENE 35 PY EXPANSION JOINT

DOUBLE LAYER MEMBRANE SBS 4mm THICK CONCRETE SUPPORT

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S a mi An dra o s C i v i l E n g i n eer

Façade Preservation

L’Armonial project - located at Abdel Wahab El Inglizi Street-Ashrafieh. Combining the patrimonial and modern buildings.

L’Armonial is the first real estate project in Lebanon primarily focused on the preservation of the Lebanese architectural heritage, which is now endangered.

This single initiative supported by the efforts of Greenstone, positions L’Armonial project as the only Lebanese project having taken into consideration the country’s architectural heritage by rehabilitating and incorporating an old facade into a modern building while maintaining quality and comfort, as well as integrating luxury & exclusive standard services: Heated swimming pool, gymnasium, spa, wine cellar, visitor parking etc..

Through L’Armonial, Greenstone paves the way for a new approach to the promotion of real estate development.

Greenstone managed to deliver an exceptional product to a privileged clientele seeking the acquisition of properties that can be passed on to future generations.

The patrimonial building dating from the early 20th century was built in two stages: the 1920s saw the birth of the first two floors, the 3rd & 4th floors were subsequently completed in the 1940/1950’s. Greenstone contributed to the patrimonial building by adding two more floors.

The evolution of the building throughout the years saw minor differences in the details present in balconies and window frames. The subtle addition of the latest two floors thus allowed for a transition from an architectural heritage building to a Tower, while ingeniously and harmoniously combining between patrimonial and contemporary characteristics.

The process of renovating the building can take place once the consolidation of the façade is completed, thus merging between the charm of yesterday and modern amenities. Greenstone appointed the technical controller “APAVE” to undertake various basic missions (life & fire safety, proper functioning of equipment, waterproofing, external cladding, etc...), as well as special missions such as ones related to acoustical insulation, thermal insulation and handicapped access. L’Armonial will provide all the charm of a historic building with the comfort and flexibility of modern construction.

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The preservation of the façade of the patrimonial building was done in six separate stages as follows:

Construction of the front basements (2 basements): Once the pit at the front side of the existing façade was excavated, the concrete structure of the Wine Cellar was cast.

Shoring and excavation of the front part of the old building: The consolidation & preservation of the existing façade started in a proactive manner, by executing a micro-shoring system for the future Wine Cellar structure located underground along the front side of the existing façade.

Façade consolidation with a metallic structure: A steel structure was designed to hold the façade and to resist seismic loads. The steel structure was anchored to the Wine Cellar concrete structure and attached to the old façade at several locations and floor levels.

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Cutting of the back of the building while preserving the consolidated old façade: The walls & slabs of the existing building were cut and removed away and the consolidated façade was detached. This was carefully executed to protect and preserve the consolidated façade.

Shoring and excavation of the whole plot: A 30-meter deep pit for the new building which included the footprints of the old existing building was shored and excavated; following which Greenstone resumed the construction of the new project.

Steel structure removal: In the final phase, Greenstone achieved its objective by merging the old existing façade with the new building, while the steel structure holding the old façade was removed.

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Assessment of Waste Prior to the

Demolition of Old Buildings Prior to demolishing existing buildings, project contractors is required to take into consideration all the waste that may result from this activity. In industrialized countries, the diagnosis concerning the nature and quantity of the generated waste is mandatory in order to obtain the necessary demolition permit.

The following is the French example in this domain:

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Which buildings are affected?

Decree No. 2011-610 issued on May 31 2011, which imposes this diagnosis, specifies that the buildings concerned are those that have a surface area exceeding 1000 m2, in addition to industrial buildings that may have housed dangerous substances* (use, stockpiling, fabrication, or distribution of such substances). This requirement affects all demolition permit requests, and demolition projects initiated after March 1, 2012.

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*pursuant to Article R.4411-6 of the Labor Code 22

What does the diagnosis process entail?

It is necessary to conduct a detailed inventory of the materials, construction products, and components of the building to be demolished, as well as the residual waste generated by its former use and occupation.

The diagnosis would thus permit the estimation of the nature and quantity of reusable waste on site (inert waste and materials, for example), and the nature and quantity of materials that can be sent to treatment centers. Subsequently, the waste material would be classified into three different categories: Inert (concrete, bricks, tiles, soil,‌), non-dangerous (plastics,

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An inspection of the building is necessary to determine the nature and quantity of reusable or recyclable waste materials.

steel, metals,…), and dangerous (asbestos, treated wood, lighting equipment,…). Details pertaining to the companies conducting the gathering, sorting, valuation and destruction of these different types of waste would also have to be denoted during the diagnosis process.

The diagnosis can only be conducted by an independent professional entity not affiliated with any of the parties participating in the demolition process, and must follow the modalities specified in the implementation regulations as stipulated in the decree. According to Daniel Petit, project manager at Apave Group’s Building Management Department, “the management of waste products has long been conducted on-site. What we are now proposing to our clients is the adoption of an environmentally friendly process bolstered by the new regulations; a diagnosis that would allow a better management of waste products during the process of demolition.”

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How is the diagnosis conducted?

To begin with, the diagnosis would consist of collecting and analyzing all the administrative, technical, and

dimensional data pertaining to the building to be demolished. These data would provide information about the construction type of the concerned building, the materials used in it, their fabrication dates, etc. Next, a visual inspection of the building must be conducted; and, in the non-visible areas of the building, destructive surveys would be performed (material sampling) and sent for laboratory analysis. All these steps aim to locate, quantify and identify, as precisely as possible, the nature of the materials and future waste products that would have to be treated after demolition is completed. Departmental plans for the management of waste products would specify which are the nearest treatment centers specializing in the recycling, valuation, and destruction of these materials.

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The diagnosis applies to buildings that have a surface area exceeding 1000 m2 or those that have housed dangerous substances.

For your information, Decree No. 2011610 pertains to “the diagnosis concerning the management of

Who is the diagnosis addressed to?

waste material resulting

The diagnosis report is sent to the companies conducting the demolition, in order to organize the management of the site’s waste products. A summary of the diagnosis must also be sent to the Ministries of Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transportation, and Housing. Once the project concluded, the contractor must send to the ADEME (the Environment and Energy Management Agency) an as-built file detailing the waste products that were disposed of.

from the demolition of different categories of buildings,” and its implementation regulations, respectively published on June 1 2011 and January 14 2012 in the Official Journal. www.legifrance.gouv.fr

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Factsheet Buildings / The management of demolition waste 32 million tons of demotion wastes are generated every year in France. This is waste that must be sorted and taken to the proper treatment facilities.

Three types of waste Inert materials or waste: Bituminous compounds devoid of tar, concrete, soil, tiles, stone, bricks, flooring material, glass‌ These can be reused on site or in other projects (road foundations, for example), used in building foundations, or sent to class 3 storage centers.

Non-dangerous materials or waste: Plaster, wood, windows, metals, plastics, insulation, non-tar based sealing compounds, floor covering, vegetation, electronic equipment‌These are sorted and sent to waste accumulation centers, recycling centers, incinerators, or class 2 storage facilities.

Dangerous materials or waste: Asbestos, bituminous compounds, tar based sealants, certain paints, treated wood, heating equipment, lighting equipment‌These are sorted and sent to treatment centers, valuation facilities, or class 1 storage facilities.

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Did you know?

Waste classified as dangerous, such as asbestos, is subject to special transport and storage procedures (segregation and confinement of the materials, in particular).

Waste treatment centers Non-dangerous materials are sorted on site before being sent to collection facilities. If needed, they are pretreated (crushed, pulverized, or compacted for example) prior to being sent to the proper treatment facilities. Recyclable materials would be sent to valuation factories, and certain non-recyclable materials sent for incineration. The remaining, called ultimate wastes, are sent to storage centers. Dangerous waste materials, once sorted, are to undergo specific treatment and processing.

Ultimate waste storage centers These are classified into three categories: • Class 3 centers used for inert waste material. • Class 2 centers used for household and treated waste (including inoffensive industrial waste). • Class 1 centers used for dangerous industrial waste (some being already stabilized through physico-chemical treatment).

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Photo © Michel El Esta

“Rainbow Ripples” 26

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Photo © Michel El Esta

“Ammik In Spring “ Buildin g & Co | SE P TE M BE R 2013

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Photo © Michel El Esta

“Sourat: Rock Water Reservoirs” 28

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Photo © Michel El Esta

“Moukhtara Waterfall In Spring” Buildin g & Co | SE P TE M BE R 2013

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Jessica Bou Tanios Journalist

Lawn: The Green Side of Architecture

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“Domination, in suburban or rural terms, means lawn, a demilitarized zone patrolled weekly with a rotary blade.

The lawn holds great appeal; it looks sort of natural - it’s green, it grows. But, in fact, it represents a subjugation of the forest as utter as a parking lot. Every species is forcibly excluded from the landscape but one, and this is forbidden to grow longer than the owner’s little finger.

A lawn is nature under totalitarian rule.”

This is how American author Michael Pollan chose to define lawn, which is a fundamental element in the world of architecture and design. While its aesthetic and practical benefits are known to everybody, it is also crucial, especially for workers employed in the field of architecture and design, to be well informed on the types of grasses and the techniques for their planting.

This is why we met up with Marc Tabet , managing partner of “Khadar”, a company specialized in Mediterranean Landscaping, who answered our questions and enlightened us about the subject.

Classification The practical, non-scientific classification divides lawn grasses into two main classes: runners (or rhizome) that spread, and seeds that start growing after planting them. In Lebanon, the two most used types of runner grasses are the Buffalo, also known as St. Augustine, and the Paspalum. The Dichondra is a seed.

There are two main types of lawn, according to our own practical classification, not the scientific one: the first one is Rhizomes that spread, and the second one is where a seed is planted and the seed starts growing.

Out of the three types of Rhizomes, the two we use the most in Lebanon are the Buffalo, also known as St. Augustine, or “tayyel” by the people in mountains, and the Paspalum. There is also a third type which is the Dichondra, planted as a seed at first and spreads later on.

We associate each of these three types to specific regions. For instance, the St. Augustine is planted at altitudes varying from 0 to 2000 m, being one of the hardiest types of lawn and the most resistant to drought and salty water; but it is thick. The Paspalum is planted at altitude varying from 0 to 600 m. It can survive at altitudes higher than 600 meters, but it starts to lose its quality at those attitudes: after the winter season for example, instead of the seeds growing again in May, they grow in July. It is similar to straw in the winter time (they all are).

It is resistant to drought and salty water as well, but less so than St. Augustine. In some places in Beirut, the water used for irrigation is mixed with sea water, and these two types tolerate salty water (to a certain degree, of course). The Dichondra is sensitive and planted in regions with low exposure to sunlight. It requires one or two hours of sunlight. It grows slowly and lives also at altitudes varying from 0 to 2000 m. Rain is damaging to all of them, but eventually they all grow again.

Irrigation system in the soil has to be installed in function of the type of lawn and the region, and in coordination with the lawn planter.

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This classification is the basis on which we decide which type to plant.

The second type of lawn requiring planting a seed is

Methods There are two methods to plant rhizomes in Lebanon (because we can get them as seeds but they aren’t available in Lebanon): either by bouture, where the plants are placed in individual pots and then planted in the soil to spread later on their own; or the turf method, used for example in the Bekaa and other agricultural regions, where surfaces are as wide as 300 000 m2.

This method utilizes a specialized machine to lay down specific surface areas (length 2 m, width 0.5 m); each piece is usually 1 m2, and is rolled and then laid on the soil where it grows in place. Technically, both these methods require the same fertilizer.

How to choose the type?

The criteria by which to choose the appropriate method revolve around budget constraints (for example the turf method is more expensive) and the quality (for example the end result is neater and the weeds can be removed when the bouture method is used, as opposed to the turf.)

Light is a necessary condition when planting lawn. If the area intended to be lawn does not get sunlight, or is shaded by trees, lawn cannot be planted. Artificial lawn is instead used (roller, pine bark), or other materials. The brighter the area, the better the lawn; and in case the luminosity is weak we can use the dichondra. Paspalum requires maximum luminosity whereas St. Augustine can be planted in shaded areas.

The first step in planting lawn is the leveling; the final level should be at least -10 cm and can reach -15 cm or -20 cm.

planted at altitudes above 500 m. In Beirut for example, this type is not very efficacious, living only a year or two, because of fungal infections.

The Dichondra is usually planted in places where it is not stepped on often (once a day for example). It is usually used for aesthetic reasons not for gardens where children play all the time or for complexes. As for professional sport fields, the lawn planted as seeds is the one used and is approved by FIFA, and also chosen according to the region, for instance a field in Ehden is not covered with the same type of lawn as a field in Beirut. The rhizomes type cannot be used because a player might stumble on a root etc.

Any type of soil can be used, but the final level should be at least -10 cm, it could be -15 cm or -20 cm. It is preferable for the soil used in this level to be the agricultural grainy kind that is easier to mow and organize. This soil is called “the Ouzai soil�, a red kind of soil frequently used on the surface because it helps the planting process. It is compatible with both bouture and turf.

As a first step, we take care of everything necessary to make the ground level. If there are small hills to be planted as well, we take care of that later on.

Organics and peats are then added to the soil. Peats are materials used to help the rooting and the growing of seeds at a rate of one bag per 30 m2. As for the organics, 25 kgs are used per each 100 m2.

Then the planting process begins. The density of the bouture also varies with the budget and the time constraints. It can vary from 6 plants per square meter Buildin g & Co | SE P TE M BE R 2013

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The roll-on technique, which comes like rolls of carpet laid on the soil with a special machine, in surfaces of usually a square meter length.

to 12 plants per square meter. Different quatities are used for different type of lawn; for example, 1 kg of dichondra covers approximately 30 m2.

After planting, the lawn is mowed. But, before planting, the irrigation system is installed subterraneanly. The result is better when an irrigation system is used instead of manual irrigation. We are not responsible for installing the irrigation system, but we constantly coordinate with those who install them. The irrigation system is put in place in function of the type of lawn and the region.

The only thing left to do once a turf type lawn is planted, is to mow it every now and then. If a bouture is planted, we have to wait until the spaces between boutures get filled in, and then with time, the herbs are plucked out. As for the seeds, they are irrigated 3 times daily during the first 4 days, and then as the seeds start growing, they are irrigated in the morning and in the evening for 21 days, untill the lawn is fully grown. It is then mowed for the first time, after which, it undergoes slight chemical fertilization and we can see if any gaps are present. Seeds are planted again, and from there on, the lawn is mowed every 10 days.

Theoretically, lawn should be mowed every 4 days, or when it reaches 3 cm, but practically it is mowed less often than that. Mowing is also in function of the climate and the needs of the plant.

The dichondra is not mowed, because the lawn is always at the same height. After 21 days, we fill the gaps with seeds that grow slowly, and with time, as the seed grows, it spreads. We consider it as a seed even though it spreads. Its development is slow, which is why it is planted as seeds and not boutures.

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Seeds are always planted as a mix of 4 or 5 kinds of seeds. And the same goes for turf, because the turf is made of seeds after all. The mix is usually made of different percentages of different kinds of seeds: the kind that grows fast but dies fast, the kind that resists cold, the kind that resists drought, etc. So after we plant, the different kinds grow at different rates without us being aware of it, giving the lawn the protection it needs against all the obstacles which might hinder its development: rain, cold, warmth, thirst, infections, worms, etc.

Lawn undergoes renovation. It isn’t usually removed unless it has become untidy, or when there is a large weed infestation. In that case, it is removed, soil is deposited again, and the lawn is planted all over again.

As for renovation, a machine is used to untangle the lawn and remove the dead herbs from it and allow it to ventilate. This treatment is done once every year or two usually, during winter or at the beginning of spring.

There are several infections that can affect lawns: • Rhizomes lawns can get infected with worms, such as butterfly larvae (Lepidoptera butterflies) during the summer season (from may till august), which do not kill the plant but eat away the lawn. Such a problem is treated with insecticides.

• Excess water and lack of sun (humidity) affects the seeds, causing fungal infections.

• Is lawn considered a habitat for snakes and insects, and is there anything that can be done to prevent it from becoming one?

No, lawn is not a living environment for snakes or other animals. You might encounter a snake on the lawn just as you might encounter it on the road. But lawn is usually not a particular attraction to them.

Anything to add?

Lawn is essential in my opinion to gardens, it complements them.

List of various varieties of lawn, grass and turf Following is a list of various lawn grasses, their good points and bad. The most important factors to think about when choosing a lawn is suitability for climate and soil. If you spend time looking at the conditions which you presently have and match a lawn type to it, then you are well on the way to producing the best lawn for your garden. When it comes to lawn, you can pick fast growing varieties that will quickly take hold, but may require hard work and maintenance in the long run. Or you can pick a slower growing variety which takes longer to establish but once it does, your work is

reduced. Have a look at how the lawn will be used also, will it just be there to look at or will it endure lots of wear and tear. Some lawn varieties endure better than others. Will the lawn be a place where lots of kids will be playing, or will cars use it for parking. There is a lawn to match every need.

LAWN Bent

TYPE Seed lawn

climate Cool climate

Carpet grass

Runners

Tropical climates

Buffalo grass

Runners & Roll-on

Couch grass or Bermuda grass

Seed or Runners

Couch grass hybrids,

Runners & Roll-on

Winter green Fescue

Kikuyu

Ryegrass Kentucky blue grass Zoysia

Seed only Seed, Runners & Roll-on

Theoretically, lawn should be mowed every 4 days, or when it reaches 3 cm, but practically it is mowed less often than that.

Subtropical & Temperate areas Subtropical & Temperate areas Temperate & Mediterranean climates Bbest suited to cool climates Subtropical areas, best used to temperate regions.

Seed only

Cool climates

Seed only

Cool climates

Seed and newer

Subtropical & Temperate

varieties by Roll-on areas

How to plant a new grass, lawn & turf There are a number of ways you can use to plant a new lawn. Which way you use will depend on what is available and your budget. Some new lawn varieties are hybrids that have been developed as new varieties.

These can only be purchased in a certain form, Sir Walter buffalo for example is only available as roll-on or runners from selected turf farms.

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3. Seed lawns - There are many types of seed lawns that can be purchased. Even Kikuyu lawn can be grown from seed. The major drawback to seed lawns is that they take longer to establish and the lawn types are not as good as some of the new hybrid varieties Seed lawns are the cheapest way to establish a lawn, and do not require a great deal of effort. Leveling the soil, and getting your soil tilled nicely are the important factors when establishing a seed lawn.

Bent & Creeping bent Lawn grass, lawn & turf Bent is a very fine grass which develops a dark green color. It is used primarily in high rainfall areas with cool climates. However it will grow well in temperate regions also. Best suited to very refined lawn uses. It is used extensively on bowling greens and golf courses. There are two main types of bent, Bent & Creeping bent. Both produce a beautiful, fine grass and lawn. However, they are both best suited to areas with good rainfall or irrigation. Both varieties grow well from seed, however the seed is very fine and can be difficult to spread.

The sprigs technique where the plants are placed in individual pots and then planted in the soil to spread later on their own.

Bent is used extensively in lawn seed mixes, with Rye and Bermuda grass. Bent is best mowed with a Cylinder or otherwise known as a Reel mower, due to the fine nature of the grass. Fertilize with around 30 grams of NPK granular fertilizer three times per year, spring, summer and autumn. If the lawn is being mowed more often, then more frequent fertilizing may be required.

Carpet grass, lawn & turf

There are three main ways to plant your new lawn.

1. Roll-on - this is lawn which comes like rolls of carpet.

The rolls come in usually a square yard or square meter lengths. Roll-on is very easy to use and makes an almost instant effect. The only drawback to using Roll-on is that it can be expensive and it is labor intensive to prepare the soil and level the lawn.

2. Runner - many running lawn varieties come as runners which can be planted on the lawn. The runners will then spread over the lawn and become a lawn after a period. Runners are easy to plant and work well, the drawback to using runners is that you have to wait a period for the runners to establish. It is also recommended that the lawn not be walked on for the months it takes for the awn to fully grow.

Runners are a much cheaper way to establish a lawn.

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Carpet grass is used extensively as a lawn and turf in sub-tropical and tropical climates. It grows and looks very similar to Buffalo grass. Carpet grass will grow in a variety of soils from clays to sandy soils where moisture is available. It can be grown from seed, however most lawns are established from runners and in some cases roll-on. It grows very quickly and is best mowed using a Rotary mower. Any general purpose fertilizer can be used on Carpet grass, however avoid nitrogen only fertilizers as they will produce excessive lush leaf growth. Better to use a balanced NPK fertilizer specially for tropical areas. Fertilize with approximately 40 grams (one good handful) per square meter four times per year (once every 3months). If the lawn is being regularly mowed, then more frequent fertilizing may be required.

Due to the fast growth of carpet grass, weeds and pests are usually not a problem.

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St ep h a n ie Hayek

A F NO R M E - Co o rd i n ato r

Afnor Middle East Launches

The Iso 50001: 2011 Certification Introduction and context

Objectives of the ISO 50001 : 2011 Standard

The environmental problems we are facing and their consequences, such as the lack of resources and pollution, are now well-known fact. Based on this difficult reality, the ISO organization decided to start working towards resource preservation. As a result, the ISO 50001 standard was developed based on specific and important actual needs.

• Reduced energy costs and consumption.

• Maximize the use of energy sources.

• Help achieve energy efficiency & compliance.

• Reduced environmental impact.

• Make a positive difference for organizations of all types in the near future, while supporting longer term efforts for improved energy technologies.

The ISO 50001, published in 2011, specifies requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and improving an energy management system, who’s purpose is to enable an organization to follow a systematic approach to achieve continual energy performance improvement, including energy efficiency, energy use and consumption.

The standard is applicable to both commercial and industrial facilities.

Methodology for implementation

Continual Improvement

Management Overview

The implementation of the ISO 50001 standard is similar to other standards’ implementation and follows the Deming loop: Plan, Do, Check and Act according to the figure below:

Energy Policy Energy Planning Implementation and Operation Monitoring measurement and analysis Checking

Internal Audit of the EnMS

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Nonconformities, correction, corrective and preventive action

Before proceeding with the formal implementation of the standard, enterprises usually start by commissioning an energy audit performed by electromechanical engineers or any other experts in the energy field. The experts verify all aspects that might have an impact on energy consumption and propose preventive or corrective measures to improve energy efficiency.

In case needed, AFNOR can also refer you to consultants who will help you with the implementation of the standard.

AFNOR and Gutcert have also developed a guideline concerning efficient energy management systems. This guide, available for free, can also help you develop a practical and efficient energy management system.

The enterprise then uses the report issued by the experts to plan the implementation of their energy management system. All steps performed for the implementation of other management systems are also followed in developing an energy management system: • Develop a policy for more efficient use of energy.

• Fix targets and objectives to meet the policy.

• Use data to better understand and make decisions concerning energy use and consumption.

• Measure the results.

• Review the effectiveness of the policy.

• Continually improve energy management through internal audits and corrective actions.

As for other management systems, enterprises can hire external consultants to help them implement the system. After implementation is complete, an audit can be performed in order to receive the ISO 50001 certification.

Our Services AFNOR Middle East is an international certification body, present in the region since 2000, offering certification audits and training on all ISO standards including the ISO 50001: 2011.

Photo © Michel El Esta

AFNOR auditors are trained at the Gutcert Academy in Germany on all aspects of the ISO 50001: 2011 standard, as well as energy management.

Whenever you are ready, AFNOR can perform the ISO 50001: 2011 audit and grant you the ISO certificate if the results are considered conforming to the standard.

For more information, please contact us: Tel: +961 1 283 072; +961 1 295 010 Fax: +961 1 295 145 E-Mail: lebanon@afnor.org Website: www.lb.afnor.org LinkedIn: AFNOR Middle East

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Ra c h ed S a r kis

C i v i l E n g i n eer - Co n s u l ta nt

Infrastructure Strategies

Natural Purification In Lebanon, the general public is not well versed in environmental and organic matters. This ignorance reflects itself in the great catastrophe that is groundwater pollution, which can never be remedied if the current trend continues, where laws are not respected and “power” and “egocentrism” have the upper hand. Many wells are converted into bottomless pits used as septic tanks that are spread all over the Lebanese territories, diffusing their wastewaters into all of our natural groundwater reservoirs.

Suicide, in the real sense of the word.

But, who says that solutions are impossible or difficult to implement? And who says that they must be exclusive or unwieldy?

Effective solutions are in fact available; but they require a certain degree of responsible thinking needed to convert them into actions capable of reversing the suicidal trend.

But, before delving into the subject of natural purification, we must say a few words about the philosophy of infrastructure in general, which relates to all aspects of modern life; from urban foundations, to transportation methods.

Many designs, innovations, studies, alternatives and solutions can be brought to bear against the problems at hand; especially considering that science has developed a multitude of practical measures capable of dealing with any sort of complications that may arise.

Mineralization of Sludge Through the Use of Reed Beds: An economic and far-reaching alternative For centuries, plants have been used to treat wastewater. Another less known, but no less interesting use of plants, is the mineralization of sludge through the

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use of reed beds. This method of treatment, which is very effective, is also characterized by its low cost when compared to other current methods. Energy costs and labor costs are less, as are this method’s lack of additive use, such as polymers.

In addition, the resulting product can be used in many more applications than those stemming from the conventional purification of dehydrated sludge.

Luxury bamboo flooring. This is the hardwood that the specialist in the matter, Tuka Bamboo, proposes to use at a starting price of 30 â‚Ź per m2, in your living room or terrace. BMW and Mercedes have also chosen to use it on the interior of some of their car models; a real tribute indeed.

Today, the embodiment of environmental friendliness take the form of investing into bamboo that is used for decorative purposes. This symbol of youth and serenity in Asia possesses in fact a thousand virtues and uses throughout the home. So many, in fact, that bamboo has become indispensible for interior decoration.

We are a long way from the days when Pier Import marketed bamboo coffee tables with rattan seats. Bamboo has gained its notoriety, during the 1970’s, by entering our lives through our home gardens’ side entrances, to become today a sophisticated fixture in the interiors and exteriors of the classiest abodes.

It is found everywhere, from floors to furniture, and all the way to tableware; retaining its Zen and ecological benefits whatever its form.

Bamboo in fact is a naturally ecological plant: It grows twice as fast as ordinary wood, with double its performance. It is capable of recycling large volumes of carbon dioxide, it produces a lot of oxygen, stabilizes ground soil, and grows without the aid of fertilizers or pesticides. Wow! Following is a short list of possible uses made available by this most charming of companion, which touches us by its quite extraordinary scientific name of Phyllostachys.

That is why we are not here talking about the dehydration of sludge, but its mineralization. It is evident that the process requires an adequate surface area (there are variations between different methods that take into account demographic factors, from 0.250.5 m2 per person to 3-4 m2 per person.

The mineralization of sludge is more convenient and efficacious when the land used is relatively close by and fairly inexpensive.

In Lebanon, the facts on the ground have shown that traversing one village to another, in order to link together different networks into a single line destined for a central (mechanical) purification station, can exceed the cost of building a local natural purification station.

Operational description Purification sludge products emanating from small purification stations or communal ones, are periodically drained or pumped towards a basin planted with reeds, where the plants develop deep roots that grow out of stem buds into the sludge, the reeds thus growing as the sludge level increases. The development of roots Buildin g & Co | SE P TE M BE R 2013

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No, bamboo tables are not only destined to be used in your pergolas. In terms of design, we can also turn to Bambu tables and chairs by Artek to discover how bamboo can be gently incorporated into everyone’s daily lives.

Bamboo tableware is sold

by Ekobo, which uses our green friend to produce all types of implements. This blue lacquered tableware set, for example, captures our imagination from the first sight. Ekobo also proposes home decorative designs, for all ages and sizes.

thus encourages the dehydration and mineralization of the sludge. Dehydration occurs through plant evaporation, but also through a drainage system located at the bottom of the basin. Rooting also plays a constructive role in the dehydration of sludge, because the permeability of deeper layers is maintained, long term, by the action of the roots and the arising mineralization. The volume of wet sludge is thus reduced by approximately 98%. Depending on the layout and employment of the system, reed basins are emptied out every eight to twelve years, replanted anew, and exploited once again. Further processing of the sludge is dependent upon the ultimate destination: it can be made into compost, used as is in agriculture, or incinerated. It can also be used in the upkeep of gardens or in landscaping.

Natural purification will always remain the simplest way to treat wastewater, especially considering its

remarkable reduction of sludge volume, and noninjurious effects to the surrounding ecosystem.

If we can build the station and plant the reed beds in such a way as to be supplied with wastewater by gravity alone, then the energy savings would be huge (purification would be brought about without expending any mechanical or electric energy).

The volume of secondary filtration water resulting from natural purification stations will be much less than that resulting from traditional dehydration techniques (mechanical or otherwise).

Additionally, the reed plants will develop thanks to deeply buried rhizomes; and the frequency of drying will depend on the type of installation and the depth of the basin. Composting of mineralized sludge can then occur in the basin itself or outside it. The drying time must be flexibly set; and the final product will be characterized by a content of dry materials exceeding 40%. The use of additives is unnecessary.

The role of the reed plants: • The reed transports oxygen towards the rhizosphere via the stem and leaves, where a diverse bacterial culture develops, which is responsible for the partial decomposition of organic material (mineralization).

Reed plants thus increase biological activity (decomposition and transformation of organic material) by a factor of two approximately, when compared to sludge drying beds devoid of plants.

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• The plants extract water from the sludge through reverse osmosis, subsequently evaporing it via their leaves.

• The development of reed roots guarantees the percolation of sludge water and promotes the elimination of water par the drainage system.

• By growing, rhizomes and roots promote the continuous release of settled sludge and enhances their structure. While upper layers are black in color, as a result of the presence of iron sulfite, and are pasty in appearance; the lower layers are brownish in color and do not have any odor, are lightweight, dehydrated, and possess a granular pelletized structure.

Schematic The following diagram describes the steps associated with the construction a sludge mineralization basin: A. First phase vertical purification, where the sludge is separated into three identical basins in order to periodically alternate their use, with the end result being a product that can easily be treated through horizontal purification.

B. Second phase horizontal purification where all wastewater resulting from the first phase is recovered and treated a second time in order to guarantee complete purification.

A- First Phase Vertical Purification

B- Second Phase Horizontal Purification

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Bamboo is also emerging as a linen material thanks to its excellent absorption capacity and incomparable softness.

Belgian company Santens has become a specialist in the matter, offering a range of towels and bathrobes that truly enhance your desire to snuggle tight.

Investment and operating costs On a financial and budgetary level, the economic advantages of treatment through natural purification are evident by the low, almost negligible, operating costs. An economic comparison using recognized constant parameters reveals that the cost savings are substantial. Some demonstration studies conducted in Germany have revealed that capital invested in the building of sludge mineralization facilities is completely recovered within ten years as a result of the savings engendered from this sludge transformation. Compared to other techniques previously used, a 50% savings on the total processing cost was achieved after ten years.

Possible savings in each case can only be determined following a proper feasibility study.

Here in Lebanon, our experience gained in Remhala leads to even more optimistic cost savings projections, because people who made use of traditional septic tanks that cost an exorbitant yearly amount of money to maintain, and caused unforeseen damage (pollution, insects), could now make use of reed beds to purify and recycle their wastewater, further making use of reeds in the construction of a multitude of products.

From an economic point of view, natural sludge mineralization facilities directly compete with traditional

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What is true for linens, also applies to clothing. Spilan thus markets bamboo fibre sweaters and t-shirts possessing remarkable properties: in addition to their incredible softness, these clothes are wrinkle resistant and naturally anti-bacterial; not to mention very attractive!

And for a lovely picnic, Nature & DÊcouvertes offers you the convenience of disposable tableware in an environmentally friendly package. This cute woven bamboo basket contains biodegradable and compostable picnic tableware for four, made of the same plant material. Please do throw them in the wastebasket after your meal rather than in the neighbor’s garden.

Some internet references: Information about water in France: www.lesagencesdeleau.fr EauVivante (a specialized company) http://eauvivante.free.fr Information, and technical advice: www.eautarcie.com

treatment techniques. Reed plant mineralization basins are in complete harmony with the surrounding ecosystem, and are similar in function to large scale reed fields that constitute a favored habitat for a great number of bird species.

Another concrete comparison of techniques took place in Qobayat where a request was made to convert a mechanical installation into a natural one.

A mechanical purification installation that was built a dozen years previously was no longer able to satisfy the purification needs of the inhabitants, resulting in a great deal of pollution to the environment, and costing in excess of sixty thousand U.S. dollars per year to operate, on top of its initial building cost of 1.3 million dollars.

In comparison, a large piece of land was made available through the local municipality to serve as a location for a natural purification installation. The fixed investment for the building and development of the project might reach six hundred thousand dollars, yielding a solution that would cost nothing to operate. In other words, its cost would be recovered in ten years, without concern for any future expansion or development of the installation.

Conclusion In Lebanon, we need to both change our strategy and establish a national blueprint to determine the location of all sites that might be purified naturally, and then

look for mechanical or other solutions to deal with sites where natural purification is not feasible.

We must keep in mind that natural solutions are always preferable in populations centers that do not exceed 4000 individuals, while taking into account that more than one local installation can be used together to serve the needs of a single population center, which reduces the time needed to build up the reed bed and lowers the upfront investment costs. (Case study for Bzebdine).

By contrast, one must also encourage local authorities to play a pivotal role in the implementation of remedial solutions, which leads to better control and faster action, while guaranteeing citizens a good return on their investments.

Furthermore, municipalities could work to encourage complementary industries that manufacture reed based products.

We must also point out that harsh regulations must be adopted governing the use of purification sludge in agriculture, which would reinforce the desire for greater legal certainty in matters having to do with sanitation on the long term. The process would thus be endowed with ecological benefits (dehydration through gravity, induced mineralization through plants, and evapotranspiration processes), which would tip the energy balance in the right direction. In addition, we must refrain from using chemical products (polymers, for example).

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Ka ma l Ayo u b

G ro u p M a r keti n g D i rec to r

Project Lebanon 2013 Held under the auspices of H.E. the Prime Minister, the 18th International Construction Trade Exhibition for Lebanon & the Middle East was organized by IFP Lebanon at BIEL, Beirut, from 4 to 7 June, 2013. The highly specialized event witnessed a record-breaking international presence and was held concurrently with two other prominent events: Energy Lebanon 2013, the 3rd International Trade Exhibition for Power Generation, Electricity, Lighting and HVAC, as well as EcOrient 2013, the 2nd International Trade Exhibition & Conference for Environmental Technologies, Sustainability, Alternative Energy, Water Technology and Clean Energy.

On June 4, on behalf of His Excellency, the Prime Minister, H.E. the Minister of Industry, Eng. Freij Sabounjian inaugurated Project Lebanon 2013, signaling the launch of one of the largest shows in the history of this event; in which 712 companies participated from 25 countries worldwide including

12 national pavilions; Belgium, Brazil, Egypt, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates; and the participating countries; Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Czech Republic, Greece, Ireland, Kuwait, Lebanon, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Thailand and the United Kingdom.

Held across 25,000 square meters of exhibition space, the event was highly received by Lebanese and regional business leaders, as well as numerous industry experts who attended the show over its four day duration, adding up to over 20,000 registered visitors by the last day of the show.

The organizers at IFP Lebanon witnessed a heavy turnout at this year’s edition despite the prevailing regional situation. Albert Aoun, Chairman of IFP Group, said that “Project Lebanon has laid steady foundations as a preferred destination for Lebanon and the region’s business community. Over the years, the show has become a launching point for foreign companies to enter the regional markets, thanks to the efficient direct interaction at the exhibition and the wide reach of Lebanese companies throughout the Middle East and GCC region.”

The event was supported by numerous international official bodies and trade associations, including UBI France, the Wallonia Export and Foreign Investment Agency, and the Egyptian Exhibition Authority; as well as the embassies of the participating countries, particularly the Brazil, France and Italy, in addition to several ministries, such as the Turkish Ministry of Economy and the Iranian Ministry of Energy; as well as

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a number of trade mission representatives of countries participating in the exhibition, resulting in a level of international participation unseen in any other previous trade show in Lebanon.

Project Lebanon has been accurately divided into specialized sections representing each product area: sanitary ware and ceramics, stone and concrete, wood and related products, metals, elevators, safety and security, plastic and pipes, paints and tints, and construction materials.

Similarly, Energy Lebanon showcased a comprehensive range of products and services such as: electricity production and distribution, modern lighting products and technologies, ventilation, cooling and air-conditioning and many more.

In addition, EcOrient was entirely dedicated to techniques used in measuring and treating of atmospheric pollution and smoke, waste collection and treatment, managing and preserving water resources, limiting air pollution, and other renewable energy and ecological projects needed in Lebanon and the Levant region. EcOrient also concluded its sessions, which were held in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Paris Ile-de-France (CCI), hosting over 25 environmental and sustainability expert speakers, with the participation of more than 200 delegates. The conference received the support of several local and international bodies, headed by the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut and Mount Lebanon, the Order of Engineers and Architects of Beirut, the Lebanese Solar Energy Society (LSES), the Lebanon Green Building Council (LGBC), the

Arab Sustainability Association, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the International Office for Water, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC); in addition to a large number of environmental specialists and engineers from Lebanon and the region.

“We have been participating in Project Lebanon for the past 4 years, always getting bigger. This year, we are participating with 400 m2 and 30 exhibitors with 50% of the companies participating for the first time. Project Lebanon is a very important exhibition since it combines all the profiles of professionals in the construction sector, as well as new and innovative products. Visitors are of a high caliber and are interested in the French product offering as well. The reasons why we choose to participate in the exhibition are the deal making and wider visibility we get on the Lebanese and regional markets, and we are willing to participate next year as we are very satisfied with the results.”

Marie Maamari Export Consultant – UBI France The show organizer, IFP Lebanon, pointed out that the aim of this union is to raise the level of specialization at the show, enabling entrepreneurs, contractors and all concerned parties to answer their business needs accurately through each individual event; in addition to providing exhibitors with higher exposure among their target audiences. Building upon the significant growth of the event over the last eighteen years and the high level of exhibitors and visitors’ satisfaction, Project Lebanon 2014 and the concurrent events promise to diversify activities and break more records.

The 2014 edition of Project Lebanon is scheduled to take place from 3 to 6 June; be sure not to miss out on the great opportunity to uncover business leads and meet business partners in the Middle East construction, energy and sustainable technology markets!

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CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

New Products

Planters, vases, artificial plants and accessories such as decoratively lit items for Christmas and other occasions from ‘fleur ami” brand lend character and uniqueness to your spaces.

Central to the “fleur ami” philosophy is the creation of exclusive products through the development of unique designs and characteristics: • new light and resistant material • wide range of custom made designs covering classical taste and modern style • different models colors and sizes available on stock and upon request • reasonable prices • high quality German products • indoor and outdoor use These products will be available starting December 2013 for the decoratively lit items and some pots, and the other products will be available early spring 2014.

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Apave Liban 2013 Training Calendar

Course ID

Theme

Course Title

Duration

Month

From

To

Fees in US$

TP 16/13

QSE

Introduction to ISO Generic Standards

2 Days

September

5

6

$450.00

TP 17/13

QSE

Food Safety Management Systems

2 Days

September

12

13

$450.00

TP 19/13

Engineering

Inspection of Existing Concrete Structures

2 Days

September

26

27

$450.00

TP 20/13

Engineering

Lifting and Hoisting

2 Days

October

3

4

$450.00

TP 21/13

Engineering

Authorization Certificate for Electrical Safety of Personnel

2 Days

October

10

11

$450.00

TP 22/13

QSE

Internal Audit for Quality Management Systems

2 Days/ 2 Times per year

October

17

18

$450.00

TP 23/13

Engineering

Atmosphere Explosif - ATEX(French Document)

2 Days

October

24

25

$450.00

TP 24/13

Management

Customer Relationship Management-CRM

2 Days

November

7

8

$450.00

TP 25/13

QSE

Energy Management System ISO 50001:2011

2 Days

November

20

21

$450.00

TP 26/13

Engineering

Lightning Protection Systems

1 Day

November

29

29

$350.00

Join us on Linked In “Apave Liban trainings” group & Don’t miss the chance to register in our Trainings. Places are limited!

With Apave, you can now build your annual training plan and benefit from up to 30% discount on your participations to our open training sessions throughout the coming year 2013 Buildin g & Co | SE P TE M BE R 2013

49

TRIBUNE LIBRE

Na ssib Na sr

Law and Order

“One step further in securing our buildings�

In this issue of our magazine Building & CO, I allowed myself to use the Open Forum page to address the adoption of a new Lebanese law pertaining to the implementation of technical controls in the construction field.

Since Apave was established in Lebanon in 1994, we never stopped growing and channeling our efforts with the goal of regulating the system.

Technical supervision in the construction field aims to prevent the occurrence of technical problems that may result in claims, as well as to verify compliance with construction regulations and rules.

Decree 7964 of March 2012 was therefore adopted to provide a legal framework that governs the job of technical controller in the construction field in Lebanon.

Technical supervision was thus rendered obligatory in the design of buildings and public establishment, in the implementation of sub-contracting work or support work on adjacent structures. In this initial period, only buildings listed as category one buildings will be subject to control.

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B u i l di n g & Co | S E PTEMBER 2013

The technical controller’s responsibilities go beyond buildings, for his expertise can also be used by contractors desirous of receiving the technical assistance needed to reduce the risks of disasters.

These regulations, which we dutifully endeavored to attain since 1995 have finally become reality. In our field of civil engineering, we also aim to guarantee professionalism, credibility, confidence and security; which all are tenets of success!

Ensuring the quality of construction works has always been my primary concern. Beyond verifying compliance through the implementation of technical controls, our experts and consultants also propose to remain by your side for as long as you own the property.

In that, our sole objective is to simplify and facilitate your decision making process, as well as help you avert any technical mishaps and delays.

Thus begins a new and important page in the history of construction in Lebanon.

Buildin g & Co | SE P TE M BE R 2013

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LEADER IN TECHNICAL CONTROL ACCREDITED “FIRST CATEGORY”

SAFETY LA C LI

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‫ﺍﻟ ﻌ‬

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W

PU B

BY THE MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS ENHANCING SAFETY IN LEBANON’S CONSTRUCTION FIELD

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CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS: Phone: 961.1.283072 / 961.1.295010 Fax: 961.1.295145 B u i l di n g & Co | S E PTEMBER 2013 Email: info@apaveliban.com www.apaveliban.com