AL HASHEMIAH CONTRACTING CO. L.L.C (HATCO)

DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR: A KEY FOCUS IN SAUDI ARABIA’S SAHAYEB DATA CENTERS PROJECT ON ITS PATH TO LEED SILVER CERTIFICATION

BY ENG. OSAMA H. HASHEM, CEO AT AL HASHEMIAH CONTRACTING CO. L.L.C (HATCO)

THE SAHAYEB DATA CENTERS PROJECT IN SAUDI ARABIA — aiming for LEED Silver certification — places the utmost importance on sustainability. LEED being the world’s most prominent ‘green’ building rating system, this project proved an opportunity for the Al Hashemiah Contracting Company (HATCO) to work towards constructing a future of sustainable coexistence, which aligns with the company’s vision and aspirations. The client and owner, SAHAYEB, partnering with EPC Contractor MIS (for efficient execution), Design & Supervision Consultant Edarat Group (for meticulous project oversight), and Main Contractor HATCO (for seamless construction), this collaborative effort emphasizes sustainable practices from inception to completion. Recognizing the significance of sustainable construction, the project integrates environmentally friendly measures to meet the stringent requirements set forth by

LEED Silver certification. By aligning with the client’s vision and engaging an expert contractor, the SAHAYEB Data Centers project is set to showcase a remarkable commitment to sustainable design and construction, while achieving the prestigious LEED Silver certification.

While energy consumption is the primary sustainabilityrelated focus in Data Centers, water conservation must not be overlooked. Given Saudi Arabia’s water scarcity, implementing water-conservation measures within the SAHAYEB Data Centers project is essential. Incorporating sustainable technologies like Geocell “soakaway pits,” rainwater will be responsibly dispensed back into the earth below, without having to waste excess material on building large rainwater drainage networks. Furthermore, employing low-flow fixtures — in locations like the restrooms and mop rooms — will help conserve water without compromising the facility’s functionality and hygiene standards. Thus, working with such strategies will significantly reduce the project’s water footprint, both exteriorly & interiorly.

In terms of energy, achieving energy efficiency is a paramount objective in the construction of the SAHAYEB Data Centers. Since Data Centers consume substantial amounts of electricity, adopting energy-efficient technologies and design principles is crucial. The project will integrate renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. Although, being efficient with regards to energy does not stop at the harnessing phase, but embracing advanced and accurate metering systems will allow building users to identify — hence act upon — opportunities for where energy could be further utilized in more efficient manners. This is fundamentally accomplished through the tracking of building-level and system-level energy consumption.

To minimize environmental impacts, efficient waste management strategies are imperative during the construction and operation phases of the SAHAYEB Data Centers project. The recycling and reuse of construction materials occurs with this project’s construction steel, formwork, and excavated earth. Moreo- ver, partnering with waste management agencies for proper disposal and recycling, of further waste throughout the construction phase, is already underway. At least 75 percent of construction and demolition materials are expected to be diverted from landfills — and redirected towards recycling facilities — before HATCO’S handover and close out of this environmentallyfriendly project. By prioritizing such practices, the SAHAYEB Data Centers project can significantly lower its carbon footprint, and align itself with the waste management requirements set-out by LEED.

Incorporating sustainable materials in the construction of the SAHAYEB Data Centers is vital to meet the LEED Silver certification standards. Utilizing locally sourced construction materials reduces carbon emissions associated with transportation, and acts to support regional growth. When it comes to material selection, specifications to which the building’s curtain wall glass panels are designed and produced, as well as the way in which the building’s façade is contextually designed, helps prevent unwanted excess heat and light from entering and ‘polluting’ interior spaces. Additionally, utilizing energy-efficient insulating materials, and eco-friendly paints, contribute to a ‘greener’ Data Center facility.

In parallel to all that has been discussed, engaging the project’s various stakeholders is fundamental to the success of sustainable initiatives in the SAHAYEB Data Centers project, on its ‘path’ towards achieving the LEED Silver certification. Building partnerships with local communities, suppliers, and employees is one way to foster a comprehensive approach towards continuous sustainability. Regular communication, workshops, and awareness campaigns can also be organized to inspire such momentum in the effort towards sustained sustainable practices, and the realization of their long-term benefits. For example, offering training programs for employees ensures that they are equipped with the necessary knowledge to implement sustainable practices throughout the project’s lifecycle; both before and after the completion of the construction phase. Collaborating with such stakeholders enables the SAHAYEB Data Centers project to cultivate a sustainabilityoriented culture, and contribute to the wider sustainable development of the construction sector in Saudi Arabia. This should ultimately align with the stakeholder engagement requirements of the LEED Silver certification.

In conclusion, the SAHAYEB Data Centers project in Saudi Arabia demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, as it embarks on the journey towards obtaining the LEED Silver certification. Henceforth, resource value can be maximized, while minimizing negative environmental impacts, so that both the economy and the environment can thrive. Through the integration of renewable energy, responsible water usage, efficient waste management, sustainable materials selection, and fostering stakeholder collaboration, the SAHAYEB Data Centers project serves as a pioneering example of sustainable construction in Saudi Arabia. Together, we can create an environmentally conscious future that meets the highest certification standards in sustainable design and construction, while aligning with the sustainable goals of Saudia Arabia’s vision 2030.