THE BUSINESS OF SUSTAINABILITY Issue 52 | decembeR 2014
Honouring Excellence BGreen Awards celebrate the tireless efforts of those making a positive difference to the environment
EDITOR’S PAGE
GROUP GROUP CHAIRMAN AND FOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA GROUP CEO NADEEM HOOD GROUP COO GINA O’HARA
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5471 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5713 EDITORIAL EDITOR ASHISH SARAF ashish.saraf@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5495 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR ANOOP K MENON anoop.menon@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5714 ASSISTANT EDITOR SHRUTHI SARAF shruthi.saraf@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5715 ADVERTISING COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR JUDE SLANN jude.slann@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 433 2857 SENIOR SALES MANAGER JUNAID RAFIqUE junaid.rafique@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5716 SENIOR SALES MANAGER LIAM FIRKIN liam.firkin@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5495 MARKETING MARKETING MANAGER LISA JUSTICE lisa.justice@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5498 DESIGN ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON SENIOR DESIGNER ROY CRUZ CIRCULATION AND PRODUCTION DATABASE AND CIRCULATION MANAGER RAJEESH M rajeesh.nair@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9147 PRODUCTION MANAGER JAMES P THARIAN james.tharian@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9146 PRODUCTION MANAGER VIPIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5713
Acknowledging hard work Sustainability is perhaps the biggest challenge for our generation and the next. Tackling this challenge requires commitment from the private and public sector, non-governmental organisations, and ultimately all individuals. Many in the rest of the world would probably regard the Middle East as lagging behind on environmental initiatives. However, this region is evolving rapidly and so is the concept of sustainability. As you read about the winners of the BGreen Awards 2014 in this very special edition, you will be convinced that the Middle East is well on its way to become a benchmark of sustainability. These winners have overcome great challenges of the day, learnt important lessons and shared their story through BGreen. Their tireless efforts in making a positive difference to our environment will inspire and motivate other individuals, organisations and companies across the Middle East to lead on the path towards a more sustainable future. The year 2015 will provide new challenges and opportunities and we encourage you to stay tuned for information on our seminars and awards programme next year. Congratulations to all the winners! Their commitment, innovation and hard work is to be commended.
DIGITAL DIGITAL SERVICE MANAGER TRISTAN TROY MAAGMA Published by
REGISTERED AT IMPZ PO BOX 13700, DUBAI, UAE TEL: +971 4 440 9100 FAX: +971 4 447 2409 WWW.CPIMEDIAGROUP.COM
Ashish Saraf Editor, BGreen
Printed by Printwell Printing press LLC Printed on wood-free paper © Copyright 2014 CPI. All rights reserved While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.
01
Contents December 2014
Contents 07 Update Regional news
34 event pReview wfes 2015
DEWA signs pilot solar project deal with ABB Saudi Arabia plans to use solar energy for desalination
This year’s World Future Energy Summit takes place at a time when the need to balance the global energy mix is more critical than ever
11 Update woRld news The United States and China have set new targets to cut emissions in a bid to halt climate change 12 Update offbeat news The world’s first solar bike lane is ready for use in the Netherlands
14 coveR stoRy honoURing excellence BGreen Awards celebrate the tireless efforts of those making a positive difference to the environment and inspiring others to lead on the path towards a more sustainable future
36 colUmn dUbai mUnicipality By 2030, Dubai will have in place an integrated and sustainable waste management system that will divert 98% of its generated waste from landfills
30 special RepoRt Rooftop solaR Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence CEO Ivano Iannelli sets an example by installing photovoltaic panels on his private residence
40 coUntRy focUs QataR Opportunities for sustainable development are rich as Qatar prepares for life after oil
02
26 seminaR gReen bUildings codes and beyond
46 gReen peRsonality cate blanchett
experts at the Green Buildings Codes and Beyond seminar opine that urban greening can be achieved only with a combination of public, private and community involvement
Academy Award-winner Cate Blanchett works hard to ensure a secure environment for her children
EXPERT PANEL
Expert Panel His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Ali Al Nuaimi Environmental Advisor Ajman Government Chief Executive Officer Al Ihsan Charity Centre Chairman International Steering Committee for the Global Initiative Towards a Sustainable Iraq (GITSI), based in the UAE
The BGreen Expert Panel provides a platform for those who are active in encouraging sustainable practices across a wide sector of industries. real experts who can share their views, analyses, and research with our informed readers. Our panellists meet every few months to discuss news, strategies and solutions on focussed topics related to sustainability. Our panellists write for the magazine - opinions and analyses - as well as on our website in a portfolio format documenting their contributions.
Saeed Alabbar LEED AP, Estidama PQP Chairman Emirates Green Building Council Director Alabaar Energy and Sustainability Group
Thomas Bohlen NCARB,LEED AP, BD+C, ESTIDAMA PQP Chief Technical Officer Middle East Centre for Sustainable Development
Abdulrahman Jawahery President Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company Chairman GPCA Responsible Care Initiative
Dr Michael Kr채mer Senior Associate Taylor Wessing (Middle East) LLP Legal Counsel Middle East Solar Industry Association
Dr. Hasim Altan Associate Professor (Reader) in Sustainable Design of the Built Environment The British University in Dubai
Ivano Iannelli Chief Executive Officer Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence
Vahid Fotuhi President MESIA
Roderick Wiles Director - Africa, Middle East, India and Oceania American Hardwood Export Council
Tanzeed Alam Policy Director EWS-WWF
Alan Millin LEED AP, Chartered Engineer consultant/trainer Middle East Facility Management Association
Stephen Smith Sustainability Manager Brookfield Multiplex
Paolo Cervini Vice president & General manager Philips Lighting Middle East & Turkey
If you would like to nominate an expert to join our panel, please email: ashish.saraf@cpimediagroup.com Supported by:
Official Sustainable Contractor:
04
The only good watt is a negawatt Mining
Generation
100 energy units
35 energy units
Transmission
Point of use
33 energy units
Due to intrinsic inefficiencies, 33 units of energy consumed at the point of use require 100 units of primary energy What’s a negawatt? The one you didn’t use Energy saved is money saved Yes, the smart grid is coming and we are actively implementing intelligence and innovations to help make it a reality. But we need a solution that will save energy and drive efficiency today as we are building the smarter grids of tomorrow.
Introducing EcoStruxure: Active Energy Management Architecture from Power Plant to PlugTM Right now, EcoStruxure solutions from Schneider Electric can reduce your energy use by up to 30% while cutting capital and operational costs. End-use efficiency is where our focus needs to be! The percentage of revenue spent on energy by companies could reach 30% by 2020. And there is an urgent need to reduce CO2 emissions, especially as energy demand escalates. Energy management is the key – the fastest and most effective solution to curb greenhouse gas emissions while improving business performance. In fact, by 2030, energy efficiency and behaviour change will offset more CO2 than all the new wind, solar, and other alternative energy generation methods combined.* ™
™
30% 30% 30%
EcoStruxure solutions cut energy costs today As energy prices continue to climb, every unit of energy you save matters. One unit saved at the point of use means three units of primary energy not consumed. Today, only EcoStruxure Active Energy Management architecture can deliver up to 30% energy savings across your buildings, industrial plants, and data centres. You deserve an Efficient Enterprise™!
Get smarter about energy and get certified... Enrol with Energy University within the next 30 days for FREE and enter to WIN a Samsung Galaxy Note™ 3! Visit www.SEreply.com Key Code 51015p
©2014 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. Schneider Electric, EcoStruxure, Efficient Enterprise and Active Energy Management Architecture from Power Plant to Plug are trademarks owned by Schneider Electric Industries SAS or its affiliated companies. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. www.schneider-electric.com • 998-3259_GB_Note3
UPDATE Regional news
DEWA signs pilot solar project deal with ABB The project will be connected to DEWA’s grid through a distribution board at ABB Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with power and automation technology firm ABB to develop a pilot solar power project at ABB’s premises with a grid-connected rooftop photovoltaic system of 277kW installed capacity. The MoU supports DEWA’s initiatives to connect electricity produced from solar power to its grid. The deal was signed by Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, and Carlos Poñe, CEO for ABB. The pilot project will be connected to DEWA’s grid through a low voltage distribution board at ABB, and will be used as a learning tool for deployment of solar photovoltaic rooftop installations in Dubai. “DEWA is committed to enhancing partnerships and collaboration with government and private local and
international organisations to further improve the services it provides to the public, as well as its operational processes according to the highest levels of availability, reliability and efficiency,” said Al Tayer.
Dubai launches e-waste collection service
Qatar launches region’s first LEED-certified data centre Qatar-based IT services and solutions provider MEEZA has unveiled the Middle East’s first LEED Platinum and Tier III certified data centre M-VAULT 2. MEEZA‘s M-VAULT 2 is the first and only LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum-certified data centre in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It is one of only four data centres outside of the United States having achieved this certification. At high densities, M-VAULT 2 claims to be 40% more energy efficient than non-LEED Platinum certified data centres.
Waste management company averda has launched the emirate’s first electronic waste (e-waste) collection service in partnership with Dubai Municipality. The e-waste bin uses a single stream collection method, allowing averda to collect different types of e-waste while still implementing a safe collection method. The first e-waste bin is now located in Al Etihad Mall in Muhaisna.
“We look forward to working together with DEWA to help to develop the solar industry in the emirate and for our installation to also be a showcase in the region, proving the benefits of renewable technologies,” said Poñe.
Alstom to increase power transmission stability in KSA Alstom Grid has been awarded a US $58m turnkey contract by Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to supply Flexible AC Transmission Systems in Saudi Arabia. Alstom will supply a Static VAr Compensator (SVC) to the Jeddah substation, situated on the coast of the Red Sea in western Saudi Arabia, and two capacitor banks to the Wadi Jaleel substation in Mecca, located about 200km from the city of Jeddah. The SVC will substantially improve and increase power transmission stability and quality across Saudi Arabia’s power transmission network. The project is expected to be completed by 2016.
07
UPDATE Regional news
SABIC registers greenhouse project
Dubai Police world’s first to go carbon-neutral Dubai Police has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence (DCCE) to jointly develop initiatives for energy efficiency, fuel saving and carbon offsetting. The success of these projects will make Dubai Police the world’s first carbon-neutral police force. To get things underway, Dubai Carbon will conduct a general carbon audit and energy audits in all Dubai Police buildings. DCCE is set to collaborate with Etihad ESCO, a DEWA venture, to identify potential energy saving measures and suggest technical improvements to materialise these.
A carbon reduction project initiated by the Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC) at its manufacturing affiliate Al-Jubail Fertilizer Company (Al-Bayroni), has been registered by the Executive Board of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). The CDM initiative encourages significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change.
Sofitel The Palm Dubai earns ISO 14001 certification Sofitel The Palm Dubai has been awarded the international ISO 14001:2004 certification for its implementation of the Environmental Management System, following a detailed EMS audit conducted by German Cert, a global certification and training institute. “The resort has received many accolades during the year for its commitment towards sustainability,” said Rohit Salunke, Director Of Engineering, Sofitel The Palm Dubai. Sofitel The Palm has become the first hotel property on Palm Jumeirah and within Sofitel’s Middle East portfolio to be awarded this certification.
Dubai strengthens environmental stance Municipality insist all buildings should be constructed using ‘green’ concrete Dubai Municipality is taking radical steps to ensure the city becomes more sustainable in the future. Keynote speaker at the opening of the two-day Sustainable Design and Construction Conference at The Big 5, Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality, unveiled details of a tough new smart checking system; an emirate-wide move to using ‘green’ concrete; and brief details of Desert Rose, the new $5.5m Emirati housing development built around sustainable principles. “It’s about a lot more than just buildings, there’s a lot more projects going on, in order to fulfil the needs of the growing city,” Lootah said. “We already have the best standard of construction and materials in the region. Our Green Building Regulations Guide has 79 chapters, and
08
we are working through these chapters to implement all of the directives,” he said. Lootah said three years ago, the Municipality decided to implement green concrete – produced without releasing or creating carbon dioxide after examining a number of materials
in the market, and now will insist all buildings are constructed using green concrete by early 2015. He also said Dubai Municipality has implemented three quick-fix sustainable solutions in buildings: insulation, solar heating and installing LED lighting.
UPDATE Regional news
NewS BrIefS Madinat Jumeirah gains Green Globe Certification Madinat Jumeirah resort in Dubai has been awarded international Green Globe Certification across its entire luxury complex. The integrated resort is the first mixeduse hospitality destination in the world to receive the Green Globe badge of honour. Madinat Jumeirah achieved extremely high scores across all areas of the operational audit. Jordan opens 1.1Mw solar power project Jordan’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has inaugurated a solar power project located in Marka district, east of Amman. The 1.1MW project has been set up at an estimated cost of US $1.1m. The project contributes towards easing expenditure on electricity by US $424,028 per year.
Dubai to charge for waste from 2015 The UAE has one of the highest per capita generation of waste Dubai will impose a charge on waste by the first half of next year, Abdulmajeed Abdulaziz Saifaie, Director of Waste Management, Dubai Municipality, was quoted as saying. However, Saifaie declined to disclose the tariff rate. At a waste management event last month, Saifaie said waste from other emirates with higher waste tariff is being dumped in Dubai. As a result, the amount of waste piling up in Dubai had almost doubled, from 6,000 tonnes in 2008 to 11,500 tonnes in 2011. Presently, Dubai charges a gate fee of Dh10 (US $2.7) per dump truck at landfills. In neighbouring Abu Dhabi, the tariff is Dh225 ($61) per tonne of waste generated by commercial and industrial companies. The planned Dubai tariff will push the private sector to reconsider how much waste it generates, Saifaie added. In the first half of this year, 39% of all waste came from the commercial sector, like hotels and malls. “We’re not going to profit from the tariff, it’s
the cost of handling the waste. We’re a public service, but there are overhead costs. This income will encourage us to invest in recycling or other waste management facilities,” he said. The UAE has one of the highest per capita generation of waste. On an average, each resident in Dubai contributes 2.3kg of garbage every day. Saifaie said that UAE authorities are planning a ‘unified’ tariff regime, which could ‘stop waste moving between emirates’.
Saudi Arabia plans to use solar energy for desalination
Suez Environnement wins wastewater contract in Oman Degrémont, a subsidiary of Suez Environnement, in a consortium with Al Ansari Trading Enterprise, a local Oman civil engineering company, has been selected by the Oman water authority Haya Water to design and operate an 18,000MIGD capacity wastewater treatment plant in Al Amerat in Muscat Governorate. The plant will use the Ultrafor membrane bioreactor process, which is appropriate for treating urban and industrial wastewater. Following treatment, the Ultrafor membrane bioreactor process produces an effluent that can meet stringent water standards and allows it to be recycled and reused in sensitive environments.
Saudi Arabia is seeking to exploit solar energy in desalination by establishing research collaborations with universities and research centres. Abdul Rahman Al-Badri, member of the Research Committee at the King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), said that the first scientific communication to achieve this was a collaboration between King Abdulaziz City and US company IBM in 2009. This project included the development of solar cells to be used in the desalination of water, as part of the King Abdullah Initiative for solar-powered desalination.
09
UPDATE World news
010
Greenhouse emissions
solar enerGy
US, China reach landmark carbon emissions deal
Climate change investment falls for second year in 2013
China has not set a specific target, but says emissions will peak by 2030
It was $40bn cheaper to install solar in 2013 than in 2012
The United States and China, the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gases, have announced new targets to cut emissions in a bid to halt climate change and persuade other nations to take equally ambitious measures ahead of a major climate treaty to be finalised next year. The two nations have achieved “a historic agreement”, President Obama said in a joint news conference with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the final day of his threeday China visit last month. The deal represents “a major milestone in the US-China relationship,” said Obama in the Great Hall of the People. “It shows what’s possible when we work together on an urgent global challenge.” The United States will double the pace of carbon emission reduction, he said, to 26% to 28% of its 2005 level. China will peak carbon dioxide emissions around 2030 and increase the non-fossil fuel share of all energy to around 20% by the same time, in what the White House called the first Chinese agreement to set a ceiling on its CO2 limits. The use of coal to generate power in US plants has declined, as many utilities have shifted to cheaper natural gas, according to the International Energy Agency. Environmental group Greenpeace called for more even extensive action. “Both sides have yet to reach the goal of a truly gamechanging climate relationship,” said Li Shuo, a climate campaigner at Greenpeace in Beijing. “There is a clear expectation of more ambition from these two economies whose emissions trajectories define the global response to climate change.”
Between 2012 and 2013, the amount of money invested globally in climate change mitigation and adaptation dropped by US $28bn. According to a new report from the Climate Policy Initiative, the decrease in global climate finance can be largely attributed to the year-on-year drop in the cost of installing solar PV. “The overall decrease is mainly due to the falling cost of some renewable energy technologies, particularly solar PV. These cost savings mean that in some cases, more renewable energy is actually being deployed for less investment. In 2013, it cost $40bn less to achieve the same level of solar deployment as in the previous year,” the report said. Last year, global private investment in renewables amounted to $193bn, $31bn lower than in 2012. A decrease in wind power development partly contributed to the negative change. But the most influential factor was the lower cost of solar PV, which accounted for 80% of the drop. As the chart below shows, the solar industry saw a $19bn dip in investment in 2013 compared with 2012 levels, even while deploying 5GW more capacity than the year before. In 2012, 32GW of solar PV was installed around the world, according to the European Photovoltaic Industry Association. The following year, 37GW was installed for tens of billions of dollars less. Earlier this year, Michael Liebreich, founder of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, described the dynamics that contributed to the change: “Investment in Europe crashed in large part because of the falling cost of solar installations, whose volume worldwide actually grew by around 20% to a new record.”
UPDATE Offbeat news
Cycling on sunshine The Netherlands unveils the world’s first solar-powered bike lane The world’s first solar bike lane is ready for use in the Netherlands. The bike path, which connects the Amsterdam suburbs of Krommenie and Wormerveer, is a 70m stretch of solar-powered roadway that opened last month. At a cost of US $3.7m, it is the first step in a project that the local government hopes will see the path extended to 100m by 2016. School children and commuters see the bike road as a very useful part of their daily commute, with approximately 2,000 cyclists expected to use it on an average day. Complementary plans are also on the table, as the country intends to power everything from traffic lights to electric cars using solar panels. The road was named SolaRoad by the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO). It is made up of rows of crystalline silicon solar cells embedded in the concrete of the path and covered with a translucent layer of tempered glass. Dr Sten de Wit from SolaRoad envisages that solar roads could eventually be used to power the electric vehicles that use them.
“Electric vehicles are on the rise, but are not really a substitute until the electricity they use is generated in a sustainable way. Roads can generate power right where it is needed,” de Wit explains in a publication for TNO. “Sensors gathering information about traffic circulation can help improve traffic management, or even allow automatic vehicle guidance.” Since the path cannot be adjusted to the position of the sun, the panels will generate approximately 30% less energy than panels on roofs. However, the road is tilted slightly to aid water run-off and achieve a better angle to the sun, and its creators expect it to generate more energy when the path is extended to 100m in 2016. A couple in the United States is currently raising funds for a solar-powered road project. Julie and Scott Brusaw predict that if every US highway incorporates solar technology, the country will generate three times as much electricity as it currently consumes. The catch? The technology is three times as expensive to install.
011
ADVERTORIAL LG
Uncompromising Quality LG electronics is a globally recognised brand leader providing comprehensive LED lighting solutions to efficiently, effectively, and environmentally support a wide array of lighting requirements. With demand for LED lighting growing quickly in the Middle East region, LG has invested heavily in LED technologies in order to be able offer the most advanced lighting solutions which combine excellent energy savings with unsurpassed performance. Furthermore, LG’s eco- friendly light sources don’t contain any hazardous materials like mercury and they don’t emit UV or IR. Through LED lighting, LG electronics continues to enrich lives by offering products that create a more comfortable, enjoyable, and sustainable atmosphere - in the home, office, store, or facility. Bgreen spoke to Prashant Baby, regional sales manager, lighting of LG Electronics to understand the company’s plans for the LED lighting sector in the Middle East. Tell us about LG’s integrated value chain vis-à-vis sustainable lighting? Control of Full Value chains coverage from LED package till finished good production enables technology leadership, quality and product reliability.
01
Being one of the market leaders in LED lighting, what is LG vision for the Middle East?
70-90%
Less energy is required by LG’s LED products compared to conventional fluorescent bulbs
012
01 Prashant Baby, Regional Sales Manager-Lighting, LG Electronics
ADVERTORIAL LG
Through LED lighting, LG electronics continues to enrich lives by offering products that create a more comfortable, enjoyable, and sustainable atmosphere - in the home, office, store, or facility. We want to be No 1 LED lighting solution provider in the Middle East region. Sustainability regulations are become stricter in the region. How does this affect your business? With sustainability regulations being adopted by the authorities in the region, there has been an increase in awareness on using sustainable products. This also helps us in making our awareness campaigns louder more effective.
“With sustainability regulations being adopted by the authorities in the region, there has been an increase in awareness on using sustainable products”
40,000 to 50,000
Number of hours that LG’s LED lights are guaranteed to operate How is overall LED lighting business in the Middle East? Do you see significant rise in demand? Investment in green infrastructure in the region, focus on reduction of carbon foot print globally and price
reduction have all played a significant role in increasing demand for energy efficient LED lighting system. Tell us about your advancements in reducing manufacturing
costs while increasing the product quality of LEDs. Our passion rests in a desire to always provide uncompromising quality. We believe we deliver this every day, and that LG’s highly acclaimed technologies and fully integrated business approaches have enabled advancements in reducing manufacturing costs while increasing the product quality of LEDs.
013
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
Honouring excellence BGreen Awards celebrate the tireless efforts of those working hard to make sustainability a business a reality the great and the good of the Middle east’s sustainability sector descended upon Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai on November 3 at the BGreen Awards 2014 ceremony to celebrate the achievements and dedication of the businesses and individuals working towards building a more environmentally sustainable and liveable future. A total of 11 awards were presented at the glittering ceremony, as the judges had a tough time picking the winners from the 150 applications BGreen had received. Going by the standard of entries, our judges were convinced that the region is well on its way to becoming a benchmark for sustainability. Hosted by Dubai-based television presenter Tom Urquhart, the ceremony was attended by thought leaders, government authorities and professionals from sectors ranging from construction, oil and gas, petrochemicals, waste management and renewable energy. The official sponsors for the events were BASF, Beeáh, Kone, Kyocera, Brookfield Multiplex and Renault. Congratulations to all winners; their commitment, innovation and hard work is to be commended.
We are grateful to our distinguished judges: • ahmed abdullah al salami, Head of Building Systems Development Unit, Dubai Municipality • dr robert Cooke, associate – Buro Happold Consulting Engineers Limited • Vahid fotuhi, President, Middle East Solar Industry Association • jeffrey decker, AECOM, Director of Business Development and Commercial Sector leader Middle East • jassim darwish, Safety, Health & Environment Manager & PFSO Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company, Bahrain
014
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
015
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
lifetime achievement of the Year Mohammad husain – CEO and President of Equate eQUAte President & Ceo Mohammad Husain ensures overall sustainability of the company by including partners, customers, suppliers, workforce and surrounding communities. As well as being a leading industrial organisation, equate approaches overall sustainability with the utmost dedication. the company undertakes various professional development approaches, including environmental initiatives, Corporate Social responsibility programmes and educational development plans for employees and the greater community, which are having an impressive impact in Kuwait and beyond. Commenting on this recognition, Husain said, “Sustainability constitutes a critical element in each and every strategy and initiative executed by the company, especially regarding the environment. Sustainability, as a
On behalf of EQUATE President & CEO Mohammad Husain, the company’s Corporate Communications Leader Kholoud Al-Feeli (R) receives the award from BGreen Editor Ashish Saraf
016
fundamental objective, is not limited to being a slogan, it is one of the most important practical measures for success and development that must be considered at all levels.” Husain added, “Based on that, EQUATE has embodied its ‘Partners in Success’ tagline through a realistic and tangible implementation of sustainability’s principles through focusing on protecting and preserving the environment by launching a number of world-class initiatives, such as the Middle East’s first Plant Water Recycle Project and Kuwait’s first CO2 Recovery Project. In addition, EQUATE is the first Kuwaiti organisation to receive the certification and accreditation of Responsible Care (RC), which is an international voluntary initiative of the global chemical industry to safely handle products through all product phases, including manufacturing, shipping, distribution, production and marketing.”
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
sustainable Petrochemical Company of the Year orpic oman oil refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (orpic) has raised its sustainability performance by achieving a significant reduction in flaring and emissions in the last few years. the company released its annual Sustainability report last year for the first time, using the Global reporting Initiative (GrI G3) index approach to present its economic, environmental and social achievements. “Orpic’s report shows that placing sustainability at the heart of policy and decision-making is not only right for the environment and our communities, but will also drive future growth and prosperity for our business,” Orpic Chief Executive Officer Musab Al Mahrouqi said.
Dr Hilal Al Hinai (R), General Manager of Corporate Support Services, Orpic, receives the award from Jeff Decker, director of Business Development, AECOM
sustainable Construction Project of the Year Brookfield Multiplex Brookfield Multiplex was responsible for the design & build works on the IreNA Headquarters as well as the fit-out works for IreNA’s offices in Masdar City. the project is set to be one of the UAe’s most sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, having been designed and built to achieve a 4 Pearl estidama rating, the highest Construction rating ever awarded under the estidama Pearl Building rating System. Sustainability KPIs for this project include 30% energy demand reduction, 20% provision of renewable energy, 30% reduction in water demand reduction, 90% of waste diverted from landfill, 30% reduction in embodied carbon in materials and 4 Pearl Estidama Design and Construction Ratings.
018
Nick Petricola (R), Project Manager, Brookfield Multiplex, receives the award from Matteo Gioia of BASF
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
sustainable Consultant of the Year Mott Macdonald Mott MacDonald assisted Abu Dhabi Water & electricity Authority (ADWeA) with the preparation of their corporate sustainability report analysing data between 2007 and 2013. The company’s key contributions included capacity building within ADWEA’s sustainability reporting team; developing a KPI model for future sustainability reporting; and identifying future initiatives, including developing materials and waste management strategies, biodiversity action plans and undertaking greenhouse gas emissions reporting. As a part of this report, Mott MacDonald built a forecasting spreadsheet model to provide a high-level indication of the impact on CO2 emissions, from changes in generation technology mix and supply side management interventions, to demand side management interventions on an annual basis through to 2030.
Noha Kandora from Kone presents the Sustainable Consultant of the Year award to Adrian Bliss (R), technical director for Environment and Sustainability, Mott MacDonald
green Building of the Year royal City Contracting royal City Contracting constructed the residential G+1 villa project in Al Warqa, Dubai, in accordance with the Passive House St andard, reducing air conditioning tonnage by 60% and earning 38 points on the LeeD rating system. Air leakage was recorded at 1.78m3/h/ sqm, out-performing the Dubai Green Building Regulations requirement of 10m3/h/sqm. The villas were constructed using a system called as ICF (Insulated Concrete Form), which provides better insulation and increases their life span. As per the international Passive House Standards, the total primary energy consumption must not be more than 120kWh/m per year. The G+1 Villa project in Al Warqa performed even better, consuming 100kWh/m per year.
Abdul Razzak Malik (R), Managing Director of Royal City Contracting, and William Whistler (L), Green Building Solutions International, accept the Green Building of the Year award from Agatha Camano of Kyocera
019
ADVERTORIAL Siemens
Building management starts with Desigo The Building Technologies (BT) Division bundles Siemens’ offerings for building automation, fire safety and security, both as service provider as well as a manufacturer of products and systems. It ensures maximum energy efficiency and comfort in buildings as well as the safety and security of people, processes, and assets. A special focus of the division is on industry-specific solutions for data centers, hospitals, life science companies, airports, hotels, and utility companies, but also on commercial buildings of international companies as well as cities and their infrastructures. The innovative Desigo CC™ building management platform is the latest in Siemens highstandard building management technology. The platform allows you to control and optimize all the systems in a building. What makes it truly unique on the market is its comprehensive structure – a single integrated building management platform that is open, efficient, flexible and easy to use. Desigo CC provides a set of benefits for our customers; • First of all: You enjoy greater safety and comfort. The comprehensive building management system ensures that all systems work together, prevents undesirable scenarios before they get out of control, and offers occupants the maximum level of safety and comfort that was previously available only to high-end building owners. • Next you will improve performance and image. Reliable and uninterrupted operations that meet the
020
highest standards automatically i n c re a s e the building performance. From owners of premium hotels to world-class research institutions: You will create the best environment for guests, patients, visitors, or employees and with that you will make a difference every day. That is an invaluable benefit for your corporate image. • Very important from an economical point of view: a significant reduction in costs. You are interconnecting all available systems. That means you only have to invest in one system, manage one system, and train operators on one system. Add to that the energy savings of up to 20 percent as confirmed in initial applications. That significantly reduces the operating costs. And remember: 80 percent of a building’s costs arise in operation. With Desigo
CC, you can significantly reduce such costs. A true open system: Desigo CC is designed to meet the current and future building automation, safety and security needs. Its flexible, open architecture solidly positions our customers for the future without locking them into a closed, proprietary system. As industry standards-based platform that works with many protocols, it is a true open system. Integration for superior control: Desigo CC is a first platform designed from ground up to integrate all disciplines. It interacts with multiple disciplines such as HVAC, lighting, shading, power, fire safety and security. Desigo CC addresses the multidisciplinary functions of building management and eliminates many of the challenges with
traditional building management stations. Now our customers can see in real time what is occurring across their building from one place, instead of having to access multiple systems. Open platform for easy integration: Desigo CC is based on industry standards, enabling integration of any type of building disciplines, such as heating, ven¬tilation and air conditioning, lighting and shading. Keep both people and facilities safe: A safe environment promotes comfort and productivity. Desigo CC has the capability to integrate building control with fire and life safety equipment as well as, intrusion detection, video surveillance and access control. Detailed graphics give our customers greater insight to make better decisions.
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
Waste Management Company of the Year Bee’ah Bee’ah works hard to drive sustainable growth by providing the infrastructure needed to spearhead environmental change. to achieve zero waste to landfill in Sharjah, the company has launched a plethora of specialised divisions and subsidiaries. In 2014, Bee’ah established and made improvements to a number of its innovative services. For example, the company opened a new metal recycling facility with a throughput capacity of 200 tonnes per hour in municipal solid waste; launched a ‘Recycling Just Got Easier’ campaign, distributing recycling bins in key locations across Sharjah; established a first-of-its-kind ‘You Call, We Haul’ initiative, a new service
designed to help the community in Sharjah dispose of bulky waste in the safest and most environmentally friendly way; and launched new smart-bins in the emirate, equipped with wireless sensors to maximise efficacy. “We are delighted and extremely proud at Bee’ah to receive this award, which is testament to the unrelenting dedication and passion of our team, in their efforts to fulfil the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to transform Sharjah into the model of environmental sustainability for the Middle East,” said Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO.
Fahad Ali Shehail (R), COO, Bee’ah, receives the Waste Management Company of the Year award from Ivano Iannelli, CEO, Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence
021
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
green Product of the Year derbipure the winning product, Derbipure, is a combination of heat-resistant and waterproofing membrane produced entirely from natural and renewable raw materials. With a lifespan of over 30 years, the roof protection system is made from pure plant oils and resins, making it a 100% sustainable solution. It doubles as a protection not only from water and moisture ingress, but also from the damaging effects of intense heat. A white acrylic coating on the membrane acts as a heat-reflector, reducing surface temperature by as much as half at the peak of a Middle East summer. This results in both short- and long-term benefits. Optimal passive cooling is provided instantly, reducing energy costs, increasing the longevity of the roof and reducing the carbon footprint of the entire building. The rooftop membrane also provides protection against rain, which – although infrequent in the region – causes
Leonard Fernandes (R), Regional Head, Derbigum, receives the Green Product of the Year award from Dr Robert Cooke, Board Member, Emirates Green Building Council
022
widespread damage in the Middle East due to lack of waterproofing. Maker Derbigum is a expert in ecological roofing solutions, beginning as a family business in Belgium in 1932 and growing into a global group. For more than 20 years, their Greennovation line has combined the best of innovation and green building technology, producing customised solutions that reduce energy consumption, produce renewable energy and decrease CO2 emissions. “Derbigum products have been used in the Gulf since the 1970s, and Derbipure is a product in the right place at the right time. Sustainability is a top priority of the UAE government in the lead-up to Expo 2020, and developers and building owners are becoming ever more aware that what is good for the environment is good for business too,” said Leonard Fernandes, regional head of Derbigum Middle East.
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
Most sustainable government department of the Year rta dubai the roads and transport Authority (rtA) has devised a long-range comprehensive transportation strategy that addresses current and future transportation issues and provides a wide range of solutions that will enable the UAe to have an efficient, safe and environmentally sound transportation system. RTA promotes the culture of public transport and encourages community members to change their transportation habits. Statistics illustrate that RTA is on the right path; surveys show that 56% of metro passengers are between 21-30 years old and 63% have at least a bachelor degree. Dubai Metro made a clear contribution to making the emirate more mobile in 2013, with 178m riders, reducing carbon footprint by 646 tonnes daily.
RTA’s Amair Saleem (R), Director, Safety Risk Regulation and Planning Department, and Adi Deesi (C), Director, Asset Management Department, receive the Most Sustainable Government Department of the Year award from David Brookes, Corporate Quality and Environmental Manager, Brookfield Multiplex
sustainable oil and gas Company of the Year gasCo GASCo has investigated the feasibility of environmentally friendly wetland treatment technology. to demonstrate that wetland technology is capable of treating GASCo-produced water, a proofof-concept pilot plant was constructed and operated at the Asab plant for six weeks. The pilot study clearly demonstrated that oxygenation boosts wetland treatment rates and keeps plants healthier, compared to passive treatment. Oxygenated wetlands are smaller than passive wetlands, have lower evaporation losses and increase the amount of water available for irrigation. Moreover, for produced water treatment, oxygenation promotes vigorous plant growth.
GASCO’s Abdi Kabadeh (L), Senior Environmental Engineer, and Eisa Al Jenaibi (R), Environmental & Energy Efficiency department head, accept the Sustainable Oil and Gas Company of the Year award from Alexa Stanbridge, Marketing Manager, BASF
023
Cover Story BGreen Awards 2014
renewable Project of the Year award first solar First Solar engineered and built the first phase of the landmark Mohammed bin rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, completing it in less than 195 days from groundbreaking to grid-connection, thus demonstrating how affordable and reliable solar electricity could realistically allow the Middle east to rapidly ramp up its electricity generation capacities to meet short- and medium-term needs. Powered by 152,880 First Solar FS Series 3 Black PV modules, the plant generates approximately 24m kWh of clean solar electricity per year. The electricity generated by the power plant displaces on average approximately 15,000 metric tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to removing about 2,000 cars from the road every year. A total of 1.5m man hours were invested in the project, all of which were incidentfree thanks to a robust HSE programme.
Ahmed S Nada (R), Vice President - Middle East at First Solar, accepts the Renewable Project of the Year award from Benoit Turibe, Middle East Marketing Director, Renault
Best green initiative of the Year Consolidated Contractors Company Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC) has implemented numerous sustainability initiatives in its units, including at the Simaisma camp in Qatar, where 11,500 litres of solar-heated water is used for various applications, including laundry and kitchen. Solar power is also used to light the streets in the camp. In their Habshan camp in the UAE, photovoltaic installation generates approximately 381MW per year, which is used for air conditioning, lighting and other daytime power activities. This clean energy initiative reduces CCC’s carbon footprint by offsetting 263 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to the usage of the diesel generators and transport by diesel truck.
024
Samir Thabet (second from right), Sustainability Coordination Manager, Consolidated Contractors Company, receives the Best Green Initiative of the Year award from Fahad Ali Shehail (C), COO, Bee’ah
Bgreen Seminar SerieS Green Buildings and Beyond
Together we can Experts at the Green Buildings Codes and Beyond seminar opine that urban greening can be achieved only with a combination of public, private and community involvement Until recently, the gulf countries were not known for their emphasis on sustainability as guiding principles for their development. regional cities still have the highest carbon footprints per capita in the world. in many ways, it is fair to argue that the model of development in many cities in the gulf has been, in essence, the antithesis of sustainable development over the last three decades. However, this has changed in the last few years. Cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha have been attempting to champion sustainable development in the Middle East by establishing a sustainability oriented framework for their development over the next few decades. The regional authorities are placing stricter regulations
on the building sector. Eco-friendly construction was first embraced in the UAE by Abu Dhabi in 2010, with the creation of Estidama - a building and design methodology platform to promote the core sustainability principles of the Abu Dhabi 2030 master plan. As Abu Dhabi continues to realise its sustainable urban development goals, Dubai implemented its own Green Building legislation this year. Saudi Arabia has also announced that the construction industry has five years to green up their business. At BGreen’s Green Building Codes and Beyond seminar on November 3 at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, thought leaders, government authorities and industry experts discussed the impact of the building regulations on the
“It’s a challenge for architects to keep up with all the new regulations. It will help if there are a unified code in this region” 025
Bgreen Seminar SerieS Green Buildings and Beyond
“The most important part in integrated planning is communication between architects, engineers, owners and contractors at early stages, even before finalising the facade” sustainability performance of the construction sector, followed by discussions on energy efficiency and waste management. The event was supported by Dubai Municipality and supported by Beeáh, Siemens and Marinay Partners. Eng Ali Ahmed Elian, Head of Engineering Materials at Dubai Central Laboratory opened the event to over 250 delegates. In his keynote address, he said that one of the main challenges that Dubai presently faces is the high volumes of construction waste it generates. “Dubai generates more than 10m tonnes of construction waste each year. At the Dubai Central Laboratory, we are trying to find out how efficiently this waste can be recycled and reused. After a series of experiments, the lab discovered that the recycled aggregate can be used in various applications such as non-structural concrete, partition masonry blocks and the thin layer under the pavement,” Eng Elian said. He emphasised on the importance of using green concrete – an environmentally friendly replacement for cement – and said that it might become mandatory by early next year. GrEEn BuildinG codEs The inaugural panel discussion focussed on the impact of the stringent building regulations on the sustainability performance of buildings in the UAE and the overall construction sector in the region. “We are at the beginning of a new journey and the real
026
hard work starts from now. The industry will have to ensure that regulations are implemented in all new projects. The new regulations are creating massive business opportunities for suppliers, contractors and consultants,” Saeed Al Abbar, Chairman, Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC), said. It has been four years since Abu Dhabi has the implemented Estidama regulations and the construction industry is believed to have made significant strides in terms of sustainability performance. “Aldar has completed four big development in Abu Dhabi in these four years. While there were major challenges in translating sustainable design into construction, we are going strong with the with the implementation of the regulations in our projects,” said Antonio Ceci, Manager – Estidama, Architecture & Interior Design, Aldar Properties. Architects in the region are pushing for unified building codes, which many believe, would go a long way towards ensuring a common quality benchmark for the construction industry in the region. “It’s a challenges for us as architects to keep up with all the new regulations. It will help if there are a unified code in this region which will set the same standards for everyone to follow,” Engi Jaber, Sustainability Manager, Dewan Architects said. Currently, the number of old buildings that are not efficient outnumber the new ones. Retrofitting the 120,000 existing
Bgreen Seminar SerieS Green Buildings and Beyond
01
02
buildings in the emirate is still in process and will take time. “A lot of focus is on high-end projects, but the reality is that a vast majority of the buildings were constructed in the 80s and the 90s which are operated very inefficiently. There are huge areas of energy wastage in these buildings. By only getting the operational and maintenance practices fixed, operators can get 10% savings instantly without any significant investment,” Al Abbar of EGBC said. EnErGy EfficiEncy An expanding population across the UAE is putting pressure on the electrical grid – from lighting skyscrapers to powering air conditioners. The UAE’s energy consumption is rated one of the highest per capita in the world and this looks set to stay. To mandate energy efficiency refurbishments of existing buildings, the Dubai Electricity and Water (DEWA) created Etihad ESCO, an energy service company which supports contract market across the sector through project development, financing facilitation, and assists in capacity building of local ESCOs. “The retrofitting market was not growing fast enough. Etihad ESCO has been working towards creating a market for retrofitting in the Dubai and we do see a lot of activity now,” Stephane Le Gentil, CEO, Etihad ESCO said at a panel discussion on energy efficiency. Seventy percent of total energy consumed in Dubai is by buildings, and of that, up to 80% is used for cooling. The goal is to reduce energy consumption by 30% by 2030. Integrated planning and engineering solutions such as passive
03
design can help reduce energy consumption in buildings, said Irene Montserrat, Building Physicist, Aecom. “The most important part in integrated planning is communication between architects, engineers, owners and contractors at early stages, even before finalising the facade,” Montserrat added. WastE manaGEmEnt Real urban greening is no just about green buildings but also about the community. The most successful green initiatives occur where a mixture of public, private and community involvement has come into being, either through evolution or by deliberate design, panellists discussing waste management at the BGreen seminar agreed. “Involving people in the hows and whys of waste management requires a significant educational effort and making them participate is perhaps the most challenging task,” Naji Mohammed Saeed Al Radhi, Head of Waste Treatment Section at Dubai Municipality said. It was recently announced that Dubai will impose waste disposal fee by the first half of the next year. This tariff is likely to push the private sector to reconsider how much waste it generates. At present, we only charges a gate fee of Dh10 (US $2.7) per dump truck at landfills. In neighbouring Abu Dhabi, the tariff is Dh225 ($61) per tonne of waste generated by commercial and industrial companies. “Imposing this fee will prevent waste from other emirates from being dumped in Dubai,” Al Radhi added.
01 ashish saraf, Editor, BGreen 02 naji mohammed saeed al radhi, Head of Waste treatment section at dubai municipality 03 saeed al abbar, chairman, Emirates Green Building council
027
ADVERTORIAL LyondellBasell
LyondellBasell – shaping what comes next As one of the world’s premier plastics, chemicals and refining companies, LyondellBasell produces materials that are essential to shaping what comes next – in electronics, food packaging, construction materials, automotive components, motor fuels, textiles, medical supplies and more. The company’s Amazing Chemistry is applied at 55 manufacturing sites located across five continents. This manufacturing network has enabled the company to be a pacesetter in the Global Fortune 500 and to earn a listing in the S & P 5 0 0. I n a d d i t i o n , LyondellBasell’s proprietary technologies have stood the test of time. The company recently commemorated the golden anniversary of receiving the 1953 Nobel Prize for Chemistry – that was awarded for the historic work done in a predecessor company to create our modern catalysts and polymers. While LyondellBasell is not a household name to many, since 2010 it has generated annual revenues greater than Nike, Disney and McDonald’s. In its own petrochemical sector, LyondellBasell is larger than Bayer and similar in size to Dow, based on market capitalization. LyondellBasell is listed on the New York Stock Exchange as LYB. LyondeLLBaseLL: shaping Tomorrow LyondellBasell is the world’s third-largest independent chemical company. Our vertically integrated facilities, broad product portfolio, manufacturing flexibility,
028
superior technology base and reputation for operational excellence enable us to deliver exceptional value to our customers across the petrochemical chain – from refining to advanced product applications. For example, pipe systems made from polybutene-1 (PB-1) have become a vital part of modern architecture and building technology. poLyBuTene-1: a high performance maTeriaL Polybutene-1 can be processed with conventional manufacturing equipment and exhibits superior thermal and mechanical
properties that make it highly suitable in end-use applications that require high strength and flexibility over a broad temperature range. Excellent
creep resistance combined with low stiffness makes polybutene-1 the technically preferred material for hot and cold water pipes. Additionally, the properties of
ADVERTORIAL LyondellBasell
polybutene-1 can be tailored by copolymerization with polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) to create random copolymers suitable for special applications in underfloor heating and inner layers of pressure tanks. Through research and development, LyondellBasell continuously discovers new opportunities to replace other polymers and traditional materials by introducing innovative properties and performance characteristics. For example, ppolybutene-1 pipe system suppliers cover the following application areas: • • • • • • • • • • •
Hot and cold water Supply systems District heating lines Radiator connections Underfloor heating Chilled ceilings and surfaces Shipbuilding Pressurized Plastic tanks Sprinkler systems Geothermal systems
PB-1 resins can also offer customers advantages in weight and flexibility. For example, the latest generation Akoalit PB-1 homopolymers (PB-H), show i m p ro v e d w a t e r q u a l i t y properties providing the potential to meet stringent future organoleptic requirements. An increased melt flow ratio (MFR) allows up to 50% faster processing due to reduced sensitivity to process-induced orientation. Akoafloor, our PB-1 based copolymer (PB-R), has been designed to meet the growing demand for flexible pipes in surface heating and cooling systems. These random copolymers provide higher flexibility thus facilitating easier installation. Long-Term mechanicaL performance Polybutene-1 is an inherently
flexible and highly resilient thermoplastic. ISO 9080 testing of Akoalit PB 4267 (a PB-1 homopolymer grade) confirms the long-term mechanical stability of this thermoplastic, with no brittle failures detected up to 95°C. Similarly, a knee point could not be detected in ISO 9080 reference lines for Akoafloor PB R 509 (a polybutene copolymer grade).
noises associated with heating and cooling in pipe systems. Tests showed a 90% reduction of pipe-borne noise in the Royal Albert Hall in London after the installation of polybutene-1 pipes.
LighT weighT consTrucTion PB-1 resins display excellent resistance to creep and burst allowing for thinner pipe walls to be designed, thereby reducing pipe weight significantly when compared to other plastic materials. The thinner pipe walls result in a larger inner diameter which leads to higher hydrodynamic efficiency (i.e. lower pressure loss).
ThermopLasTic poLyoLefins from The caTaLLoy process For building and construction LyondellBasell also offers other thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPO) produced using Catalloy technology. This is a proprietary technology that combines the advantages of Polyolefins with those of elastomers producing advanced Polyolefins, which are used by customers as base materials, raw materials in compounds or as polymer modifiers. For example, Catalloy TPO resins can be used for roofing and Geo-membranes applications.
sound dampening Among the superior properties of polybutene-1 is its excellent sound dampening. The combination of high elasticity, low specific density 0.9 g/cm3)
hifax and sofTeLL Tpo resins for singLe-pLy roofing Waterproofing membranes produced using Catalloy TPO resins are recognized in the
years, LyondellBasell’s TPO resins have been specified by customers for waterproofing membranes. advanced Tpo resins repLacing pvc and BiTumenmemBranes Key features of the resins for these applications are temperature resistance from very low to elevated levels improving the cold bending property of bitumen even after thermal and UV aging. Additionally, these TPO resins offer: • Reduced environmental impact – No plasticizers, chlorine or heavy metals. “Green roofs” reducing summer temperatures in city areas (Vulcano Shopping Center in Naples) and “White roofs” reducing temperatures in buildings (Wembley Olympic Stadium in London). hifax Tpo roofing..
resins
for
02
Catalloy TPO resins are also used in Geo-membrane applications because of their exceptional combination of durability, flexibility, barrier properties, thermal resistance, dimensional stability, plasticizer-free design and environmental resistance.
01
and thinner pipe wall construction in polybutene pipes leads to high absorption of “water hammer” and other
industry as tough, versatile materials, combining ease of installation, durability and long service life. For more than 20 01 Royal Albert Hall 02 Wembley Olympic Stadium
moving on Now, around the world and around the Chemisphere, LyondellBasell people, plants and products lead the way in petrochemical safety, environmental stewardship, product innovation and sustainable performance. To learn more about how LyondellBasell is shaping what comes next, visit www.lyb.com
029
CO MP TH LIA E N NT °1 V SO O C LU TIO N
POLY MAX® LOW VOC ALL MATERIALS ALL SURFACES ALL CONDITIONS Bison Poly Max® Low VOC is a universal, highquality construction adhesive based on the unique SM Polymer technology. The product has a very high final bonding strength and can be used on all materials, all surfaces, in all conditions! Due to its solvent-free formula, Poly Max® Low VOC is odorless and has low VOC emission. Poly Max® Low
Bison. Powerful Adhesives.
VOC helps you to work fast and finish your jobs with just one product. It can be used for bonding and fixing almost all (construction) materials to almost all surfaces (both smooth, porous and non-porous surfaces) indoors and outdoors, making it the ultimate all-round product for all building and construction projects!
SOLAR Rooftop
Revolution in the making Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence CEO Ivano Iannelli sets an example by using photovoltaic panels on his private residence
01
Green energy solutions are here to stay, from ultra-fast super cars to machines responsible for your piping hot cup of morning coffee. As such, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has led several initiatives to inculcate Dubai’s residents with green solutions. Ivano Iannelli has thus become the first Dubai resident to adopt an energy-efficient mode of survival. “Of course, it helps when you are part of an organisation such as the Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence,” Ivano says. He is the CEO of Dubai Carbon, the organisation responsible for supporting and initiating the transition to a low-carbon economy, primarily through one of Dubai Carbon’s first projects, which was to measure the emirate’s carbon footprint. “I live in a gated community and decided to install the solar panels on my house to set a valid example and challenge my neighbours to follow, thus experiencing first-hand the bottlenecks and positives it would throw up. Since I had been given the opportunity to work closely with DEWA to stress test the upcoming regulation, it was relevant to understand what individuals would be facing when approaching the subject. Then it was down to the property management (PM) to maintain
decorum and uniformity of the community,” explains Ivano. “However, they were a little cautious, since this was the first of its kind. After going through all the necessary checks and sorting out all queries, we managed to install it.” The regulations to govern solar power connection in Dubai homes and businesses are in the final stages of development, following which DEWA will be urging residents to come forward and adopt a solution that’s not only environmentally friendly but cuts their power costs significantly. “Energy produced might not equal the energy I have exhausted, even over the period of a year. But we are making an effort. There is so much untapped solar potential in this country that could be put to good use by home owners in Dubai,” Ivano explains. “The added value is not coming from the solar power generated alone, but from the additional insulation from sun rays the solar rooftop provides in terms of energy efficiency to the chillers, and the economic benefit I have gained by moving my energy bill one slab down, hence reducing the already low cost of energy.” While the solution will be viable for villa owners,
01 Ivano Iannelli
031
EcO LEiSuRE Rooftop
“I live in a gated community and decided to install the solar panels on my house to set a valid example and challenge my neighbours to follow, thus experiencing first-hand the bottlenecks and positives it would throw up” Ivano IannellI, Ceo of DubaI Carbon Centre of exCellenCe
apartment-based residents might not be able to make their contribution to a greener society. Since buildings have less surface area, and it is divided among all the flat owners, it will not be easy to determine and devise a method by which residents enjoy the benefits equally. In this scenario, the onus will then be on the realty development companies to include photovoltaic panels on rooftops in new projects. Retrofitting existing buildings is also an option. Last month, DEWA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with power and automation technology company ABB to develop a pilot solar power project at ABB’s premises, with a grid-connected rooftop photovoltaic system of 277kW installed capacity. According to the MoU, the pilot project will be connected to DEWA’s grid through a low-voltage distribution board at ABB, and will be used as a learning tool for deployment of solar PV rooftop installations in Dubai. Dubai is planning to generate about 5% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. The emirate has already witnessed a first-of-its-kind, 13MW capacity photovoltaic power plant; and it more recently tendered the second phase, amounting to 100MW at Seih Al Dahal, 30km southeast of the city of Dubai. The emirate is also on the verge of verifying its carbon emission reductions under the United Nations Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). The project, which marks the first phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, was registered under the CDM on 10 August 2012 and was launched in October 2013.
032
The group that brought Africa’s Greenest Hotel to Cape Town Airport, now offers project management of design, construction, operation and implementation of world-class sustainable hotel developments globally. Hotel Verde, Africa’s Greenest Hotel & first hotel in Africa to offer carbon neutral accommodation to guests, currently runs at 70% higher energy efficiency than an average hotel. It is also the first hotel in Africa to receive Platinum LEED for New Construction by the United States Green Building Council. Verde Invest provides a one stop solution for investors, hotel owners and developers to capitalise on the rapidly growing industry of green building and sustainable tourism.
Visit verdeinvest.net to learn more & to view our flagship project : Hotel Verde, Cape Town Airport, Africa’s Greenest Hotel (www.hotelverde.co.za)
EvEnt PrEviEW World Future Energy Summit
Setting the agenda This year’s World Future Energy Summit takes place at a time when the need to balance the global energy mix is more critical than ever With the global population forecast to increase to more than 9bn people by 2050, placing huge strains on energy and natural resource supplies, the world must find new, innovative ways to drive social and economic development, while reducing environmental impact. That is the challenge the annual World Future Energy Summit (WFES), the Middle East’s largest gathering on future energy, is designed to tackle. WFES leads the UAE’s response to these urgent issues, challenging policy makers, thought leaders, academia and corporations from around the world to find solutions that advance the use of renewable energy and clean technology, in the pursuit of sustainable development. Now in its eighth year, the event, hosted by Masdar, has put energy diversification at the top of the region’s sustainability agenda. The summit addresses the importance of uniting public policy, R&D and the business community to stimulate
034
private-public partnerships, encourage entrepreneurship and accelerate action on sustainable energy deployment. Recognised as one of the world’s most influential energy gatherings, last year WFES attracted more than 30,000 people from 160 countries. The event has been attended by heads of state from China, South Korea, Argentina, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. The resource challenges faced by MENA countries, as populations rise and economies grow, will top the agenda at the 2015 edition. From reductions in fuel dependency to ensuring long-term economic prosperity, the case for clean energy within the MENA region is solid. Industry analysis suggests more than $100bn has been allocated to its development by 2020, according Frost and Sullivan. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) alone plans to invest US $109bn to develop 54GW of renewable energy by 2032.
EvEnt PrEviEW World Future Energy Summit
“From the Middle East to Africa, WFES has become central to driving the future of energy, regionally and internationally” Naji El Haddad, WFES SHoW dirEctor
Taking place from January 19-22 in Abu Dhabi, WFES will provide a window into MENA’s thriving clean tech market, whilst showcasing clean energy hotspots further afield such as in Sub-Saharan Africa, home to six of the 10 fastest growing economies in the world. Its energy infrastructure lags behind economic development, and 500 million people still lack access to electricity, yet SubSaharan Africa has the potential to generate more than 170GW of renewable energy. From the Middle East to Africa, WFES has become central to driving the future of energy, regionally and internationally, says Naji El Haddad, WFES show director. “The World Future Energy Summit has built a reputation as an event that drives action. From showcasing the latest market opportunities to commercialising technologies and applying critical thinking, the event shapes the region’s future energy landscape,” he says. “Further afield, the contribution WFES makes to the global acceleration of renewable energy is becoming evident. Its strength is in its ability to unite technology, policy, academia and investment from across the globe, to cross-pollinate ideas, share learnings and move the industry forward. “This year’s event takes place at a time when the need to
balance the global energy mix, address energy security and tackle the energy-water nexus, is more critical than ever,” El Haddad adds. “Once again, we are looking forward to welcoming the industry’s key regional and global players, including Masdar, ADNOC, BP, Shell, Total, Saudi Aramco, Dolphin Energy and others, to WFES.” The WFES conference will feature a ministerial panel on Africa’s energy opportunities and a panel discussion on Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision for renewable energy. There will also be sessions on Egypt’s energy needs and Morocco’s transition from an energy importer to a net energy exporter, with the implementation of a robust regulatory framework and a target of 42% of energy generated from renewable sources by 2020. The rise of shale and its impact on the adoption of renewable energy will be debated, as well as the role of cities in combating climate change and the building of a clean energy future in the UAE. Delegates will also hear case studies from South Africa, where incentives have created one of the fastest growing clean energy markets in the world. In addition, they will benefit from workshops on ways to operate and optimise solar photovoltaic (PV) and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) facilities.
Addressing water-energy nexus For four days in january, thought leaders, policy-makers and technologists from the global water industry will once again convene in abu dhabi for the third international Water Summit (iWS). at a time of rising global populations and diminishing water resources, the need to unlock the water-energy nexus and ensure global water security has never been greater. Hosted by Masdar in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA), the 2015 IWS will again form a key element of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, the largest gathering of its kind in the MENA region. IWS comes at a time when there is a need to increase desalination capacity to more than 5bn gallons a day to meet projected regional demand, primarily from the energy and food industries. Last year, GCC nations committed US $32bn to water and renewable energy projects. Further afield, more than $12.5bn of investment is earmarked for water projects across the MENA region in 2015 alone.
In fact, the current rapid rate of water depletion across MENA may see the region categorised as one with ‘physical water scarcity’ by 2030. With IWS taking place in parallel to World Future Energy Summit and EcoWaste, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the co-innovation taking place across the full sustainability value chain and capitalise on the vast commercial opportunities available across the region.
035
Waste ManageMent Dubai Municipality
Zeroing in on waste By 2030, Dubai will have in place an integrated and sustainable waste management system that will divert 98% of its generated waste from landfills
036
Waste ManageMent Dubai Municipality
“The master plan is designed to ensure that waste is classified, managed, recorded, processed, treated and disposed of using the best available technologies and practices” since the establishment of Dubai Municipality in the 1950s, Dubai has flourished, becoming a modern cosmopolitan city and a gateway to business, tourism and trade in the Middle east. Responding to the impact and pressure of the rapid growth in industry, trade and urbanisation, the need to ensure general cleanliness of the city and the protection of public health and the environment has resulted in Dubai Municipality’s waste management service evolving from a simple street cleaning operation to a modern, sophisticated public service. Faced with challenges such as transient visitors during tourist festivals and a multinational population, the waste management service has progressed through the implementation and enforcement of legislation, policies and strategies. In order to meet the demands of a modern society looking for high quality, efficient and effective service, the development of strategies has always been a dynamic process involving periodic reviews, evaluation and planning. Dubai Waste Management Master Plan 2030 is the latest strategic planning document developed by Dubai Municipality to address waste management requirements in coming years. New iNitiatives The master plan is a strategic, integrated and sustainable approach that caters to Dubai’s present and future needs. New legislation, waste management systems, programmes and infrastructure will be put in place to encourage and promote waste minimisation and recycling. Fifteen communities have already converted from a conventional communal waste collection system to a more recycling-efficient door-to-door collection system called My City My Environment. Mandatory waste segregation in shopping centres has already been initiated, with the hospitality sector to follow soon. The master plan is designed to ensure that Dubai manages its waste in an environmentally friendly manner, and that the waste is classified, managed, recorded, processed, treated and disposed of using the best available technologies and practices. awareNess Knowledge is power, and this applies to waste management as well. In order to have a successful and sustainable programme,
everyone in Dubai – workers, residents and tourists – will be informed of waste rules, programmes and facilities. This will increase compliance at the community level. Existing waste campaigns like Clean Up the World, Desert Clean Up and No Plastics Bags have proven to be effective means to get community support. iNfrastructure Dubai has one of the biggest materials recovery facilities in the Middle East, and the city operates a state-of-the-art medical waste treatment facility. With the implementation of the master plan, modern facilities to complement the existing ones and address future waste generation will be put in place. Bulk waste transportation facilities, sorting plants, energy recovery facilities and residual waste treatment facilities are all planned to be constructed. By 2030, Dubai will have in place an integrated and sustainable waste management system that will divert 98% of its generated waste from landfills. The author, Abdulmajeed Abdulaziz Saifaie is the Director of Waste Management, Dubai Municipality.
037
COunTry FOCus Qatar
Emerging Qatar Opportunities for sustainable development are rich as Qatar prepares for life after oil One of the most urgent issues at the forefront of the international agenda, amid rapid global population growth, social development and economic expansion, is climate change. This is not an abstract issue; it is apparent and has real consequences on our lives, for some more than others. It is also, in some cases, disrupting national economies. However, there is increasing recognition that affordable, viable solutions exist to enable the global community to develop sustainable economies. Since the social, economic and environmental realms are interlinked on the issue of global sustainability, Qatar
038
has made this issue a top priority on its national agenda. Environmental development is one of the four main pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030, which itself aims to manage rapid domestic expansion to ensure harmony between economic growth, social development and environmental protection. Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development plays an instrumental role in Qatar’s sustainability efforts as it helps transform the country into a knowledge-based economy. It endeavours to realise this vision by making sustainability an integral part of the day-
COunTry FOCus Qatar
to-day lives of local residents, and by doing so, it is working towards achieving its own strategic mission of releasing human potential and promoting creativity and innovation. Accordingly, Qatar Foundation has adopted a number of programmes designed to encourage the public to integrate sustainability into their daily lives. “Qatar Foundation’s main objective is to educate the community about the importance of sustainability while creating a green urban environment,” says Eng Jassim Telefat, group executive director of Qatar Foundation Capital Projects and Facilities Management. “For this reason, Education City’s highly functional buildings, with their low consumption of environmental resources such as water and energy, have been created to help reduce the environmental impact of construction. Therefore, the campus’ unique design provides the highest possible living standards for students and employees, while conserving the environment.” Eng Telefat adds: “Qatar Foundation has always given
priority to human development by introducing young people to sustainable development practices, engaging the student community in environmental care standards, and encouraging individuals to adopt sustainable lifestyles.” One way in which Qatar Foundation weaves sustainable awareness into the lives of the younger generation is by making it part of their living environment through various means – from healthy living awareness activities and providing basic recycling facilities around the Education City campus in Doha, to its grander plans of making the 14sqkm area a car-free zone. Green buildinGs Qatar’s social, economic and environmental sustainability efforts are also exemplified in the Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC). As a Qatar Foundation member, QGBC is a non-profit, membership-driven organisation that provides leadership to encourage collaboration in sustainable best practice, for green building design and development
039
COunTry FOCus Qatar
“Incorporating environmental awareness into the mindsets of the new generation is crucial to any effort” EnginEEr MEshal al shaMari, dirEctor of QgBc
across Qatar. “We support Qatar Foundation’s sustainability efforts by communicating and collaborating with experts at other Qatar Foundation member organisations,” says Eng Meshal Al Shamari, director of QGBC. “Currently, we have ongoing research projects underway with Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Texas A&M University at Qatar, all based at Education City. We also provide technical support to the Health, Safety, Security and Environment [HSSE] Directorate at Qatar Foundation.” QGBC also supports the government and private sectors in Qatar by studying the market’s sustainability needs and providing training to relevant parties, as it works to raise the levels of environmental awareness in both the corporate realm and the wider community. QGBC uses a variety of initiatives and public campaigns to achieve its goal; the most recent is the launch of an e-survey that encourages residents to share basic but valuable information about their household energy and water consumption. This recent drive is a data collection exercise that will help QGBC gauge current national levels of environmental awareness in order to develop best practice guidelines for both the professional and residential sectors. In addition, QGBC has developed a virtual reality education programme for high school students that features interesting facts and information about the environment and underlying sustainability woes in Qatar. QGBC will soon launch the Qatar Green Directory, aiming for it to be a platform for all the green products and services available in Qatar and the region. “Generally, sustainability is a relatively new concept
for everybody worldwide, which makes incorporating environmental awareness into the mindsets and the lifestyles of the new generation crucial to any effort, especially in a place with abundant energy like Qatar,” says Al Shamari. Qatar Foundation is also dedicated to upholding the rights of migrant workers in the country. The Karama initiative, launched in 2013, was specifically created to prevent unjust employment practices. The drive is set to significantly raise the standards of living for migrant workers contracted on the Foundation’s projects. Furthermore, the organisation also promotes social sustainability through its Community Development Pillar, by encouraging healthy living among Qatar’s residents. The Qatar Foundation Support Services Directorate organises programmes for its internal community throughout the year, including swimming, gymnastics, football and basketball classes, in addition to health circuit training and self-defence classes for women. For Qatar’s wider community, Qatar Foundation facilitates healthy living through various events, including its popular National Sport Day celebration. “The Support Services Directorate contributes to Qatar Foundation’s social efforts, which fall under its sustainable development initiatives cutting across research, education and community development,” says Mohammad Al Naimi, community affairs director at Qatar Foundation’s Support Services Directorate. “Therefore, throughout the year, we organise activities and programmes that benefit communal well-being. We understand how crucial sustainability is for the development of Qatar, which is why we encourage the community to take an active role in
01
040
01 Qatar national Convention Centre
COunTry FOCus Qatar
“Qatar Foundation’s main objective is to educate the community about the importance of sustainability while creating a green urban environment” EnginEEr JassiM tElEfat, Qatar foundation
driving a healthy and harmonious social environment.” Qatar Foundation is equally dedicated to sustainable infrastructural development. For instance, the student housing complex at Education City is currently one of the few platinum LEED-certified student housing complexes in the world. Having earned 12 Platinum LEED certifications in the New Construction category from the US Green Building Council, it is the largest collection of platinum LEED-certified buildings in one area in the world. In addition, the complex uses state-of-the-art sustainable technology and energy-efficient systems throughout. It allows students to track their green footprint by monitoring their individual water and energy consumption, and is also equipped with a solar-panelled roof and wind turbines that generate clean energy at gusts of 10km or more. These turbines have become icons of the sustainability practices that define Qatar Foundation. Another feature of the student complex is the special key card system that helps to save energy. When the card is removed, the lights turn off automatically and the air conditioning reverts to an average temperature in order to reduce energy consumption. Meanwhile, just two years ago, Qatar hosted the UN Climate Change Conference at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). The QNCC is designed to operate efficiently, with innovations such as water conservation and energy-efficient fixtures. It is also approximately 32% more efficient than similarly designed buildings. The QNCC’s most prominent feature is the 3,500sqm of solar panels on its roof that provide 12.5% of the Centre’s energy
needs. Additionally, the exhibition halls are equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting and various other integrated design elements, currently being adapted to maintain the highest sustainable standards. sOlar enerGy Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec), also a member of Qatar Foundation, is tasked with developing Qatar’s solar industry, which brings tremendous opportunities. As demand for solar applications and technologies continues to expand worldwide, employment, research, investment and entrepreneurship opportunities abound. QSTec continues to deliver education seminars and workshops in schools, aimed at providing a hands-on learning experience of renewable energy and environmental sustainability practices. QSTec also provides a new industry for Qataris to participate through employment, research or entrepreneurship, by providing a vigilant working environment where safety is a top priority. Environmental protection, the conservation of natural resources and the elimination of health and safety risks are at the core of QSTec’s operations. Additionally, the plant’s progressive equipment allows the recycling and re-use of vent gases used in the production of polysilicon. QSTec’s use of advanced technological systems enables it to achieve greater production, energy and workplace efficiency while protecting the environment, contributing to the realisation of Qatar Foundation’s overarching mission.
041
www.cdp.net
INNOVATION Product Update
Innovation
iSolarWorkx DIY kits iSolarWorkx www.isolarworkx.com
KONE EcoDisc Kone www.kone.ae
Enevo One sensors Enevo One www.enevo.com
iSolarWorkx provides solar energy education to educational institutions, using a DIY (do-it-yourself ) kit. Their first kit, a solar toy car, has been designed and developed, and a functioning prototype is available. The company aims to introduce a new solar DIY kit each year to local and international markets. The combination of solar educational material and practical models is intended to help school pupils understand solar energy.
KONE EcoDisc is a hoisting machine that uses a synchronous, rare earth permanent magnet motor (PMSM) of axial design. This gearless system is adaptable to the lowest and highest speeds and loads, and in general is supplied with a mix of hydraulic, geared and gearless elevators. The system can be applied to either a without machine room or a with machine room system. The synchronous permanent magnet motor of the KONE EcoDisc prevents electrical losses caused by motor slip and magnetising losses in the rotor.
Enevo One is a comprehensive logistics system that uses wireless sensors to measure and forecast the fill-level of waste containers, and generates smart collection plans. The solution provides up to 50% savings in waste collection costs, due to less operating time, less fuel, fewer staff and a smaller fleet. In addition, roads stay cleaner, since containers are emptied before there is overflow. Fewer trucks and less driving means lesser carbon emissions and noise, smell and disturbing traffic on streets.
Key features: A solar panel that can tilt 360 degrees, to teach pupils about sun direction, solar rays and their relationship to the speed of the car. A specially designed solar case capable of hosting various solar panels with different power settings (0.5W, 0.75W and 1W), to present the relationship between energy, power and speed. A multi-gear function (simulating gears in bicycles), to teach pupils about solar power, DC motors and mechanical motion. A choice between straight line movement for racing and circular movement.
Key features: Energy consumption is only 50% of geared arrangement and 40% of hydraulic system. This innovative copper winding system reduces the amount of energy lost as heat by up to 30%. Requires no gear box thus no gear oil is needed, means the reduction in fire and safety hazards. The frequency converter unit supplying the motor is designed exclusively for elevator application.
Key features: Built-in battery provides required energy for 10 years. Sensor is fitted to the lid of a container. Up to 50% of total waste collection cost can be saved. Users can check the status of containers at any time through web-based user interface. Power consumption is equivalent to a light bulb. Alerts for abnormal events (such as high temperature and movement). Real time fill level status. Predicted fill-up dates.
043
DIARY DATES Events & conferences
Diary dates Green Innovation Event Dubai, UAE December 14
Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC) and the French Business Council (FBC) in Dubai will jointly host a Green Innovation Event for suppliers in the green building and energy efficiency industry. The purpose of the event is to bring together companies in the green building industry on a common platform to showcase their green innovations. Local industry stakeholders, such as consultants, developers, institutions, government bodies and contractors will be invited to attend and visit the featured innovations. EGBC is an independent forum that helps in shaping policies for the built environment facilitating collaborative solutions to promote sustainable practices in the UAE.
044
Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2015 Abu Dhabi, UAE Jan 18 - 24 Between 18th and 24th January 2015, Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) will once again, bring world leaders, policy makers, thought leaders, decision makers, experts, scientists, business leaders and academics together to discuss, debate, and ultimately address the energy and sustainability challenges of the future. Anchored by the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), the 2015 programme will feature a series of complementary events, conferences and exhibitions, including: The International Water Summit; The Abu Dhabi Renewable Energy Conference; The Zayed Future Energy Prize Award Ceremony; The International Renewable Energy Agency meeting; and Ecowaste.
Saudi PPPP Jeddah, Saudi Arabia March 1 to 3, 2015
Solar Middle East Dubai, UAE March 2-4
With over 11 successful editions in Riyadh, Saudi Plast & Petrochem and Saudi Print & Pack (Saudi PPPP) has become the longest running industrial show in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The event has positioned itself to cater to the networking needs of industrialists and key stakeholders in the petrochemical, plastic, printing and packaging industries. Saudi PPPP has successfully created a favourable venue to meet and discuss current industrial trends and fresh business opportunities in the KSA and the Middle East.
Strategically co-located with Middle East Electricity and set to fully capitalize on the synergy that this presents, Solar Middle East 2015 will be a comprehensive gathering of solar technology suppliers in the region. The exhibition provides an unrivalled opportunity for technology manufacturers and system integrators to build relationships with industry influencers and key decision makers within the solar market in the GCC and wider Middle East. The Solar Middle East Conference has already cemented its place in the annual industry calendar following a second year of record-setting attendance including some of the region’s most prominent players. In the 2014 event, 450 delegates attended the conference which featured 16 visionary speakers from around the world sharing insights and best practice to help drive this key growth industry forward.
RECRUITMENT Sustainability vacancies
Sponsored by
Recruitment MEP: Growing sustainability at the core of Middle East Projects
With the construction revival experienced across the region and notably in Dubai, the demand for skilled MEP professionals is growing - and these are becoming increasingly Green! Allen & York have found that the profiles requested from a lot of consultancy & contracting clients are slightly different from those who worked during the latest expansion phase of the construction sector - focus upon a tight envelope, efficiency & material life cycles are now becoming standard rather than an exception to the rule. With a combination of new and maturing technologies along with the enforcement of new building regulations & codes, our clients are now looking for sustainable qualified MEP engineers and leaders. Simon Bangs is the Group Manager – Environment of sustainability consultancy firm Allen & York
SuStainability VacancieS from allen & york Senior commissioning manager (meP), Qatar An experienced Commissioning Manager with a proven track record in taking projects through commissioning of LEED accredited projects to lead a team working on a number of prestigious projects. Water & Waste Section Head, Saudi arabia A western educated expat is required to manage the pollution control of a large industrial complex in the Eastern Province. Sustainability manager, Qatar An Environmental Manager is required to oversee coordination of Sustainability & Material Efficiency activities of a local contracting company for a large infrastructure project. marine environmental Scientist, bahrain An experienced Marine Scientist is required to join the operations of one of the Gulf ’s marine environmental consultancies. country manager, iraq An Iraqi National is required
to lead the operations of a large European environmental service company supporting the international oil companies operating in Basra. lead Structural engineer (Chartered) – Kuwait up to 2200KD Accommodation is provided + Company car is provided + 3 flights per annum. International Consultancy looking for a Structural Engineer to lead the team on their Kuwait operations. Public Health Design – Dubai International Design Consultancy - Must have 4 years + relevant experience in Public Health Engineering design in the building services sector. electrical Design engineer – Dubai International Consultancy – must have 5 years plus experience Solar PV engineer An International Management Engineering Consultancy is seeking an additional solar PV technical professional to join their renewable’s team
bD manager - iPP renewable energy Responsible for leading the offers for energy and/ or water projects under a concession and/ or power purchase agreement PPA scheme. technical Head Solar PV Responsible for technical designs and engineering proposals On and Off grid, Hybrid and micro grid solutions. Must have electrical grid connection experience as well as extensive Off grid experience. bim Specialist – Dubai International Design Consultancy Currently looking for a BIM Specialist with a minimum of 5 years’ experience of working with BIM to join the team in Dubai. mechanical Site engineer - Qatar Must be able to demonstrate a significant track record of working as Senior Mechanical Engineer with respect to the detailed design of buildings projects.
To apply to any of these vacancies visit www.bgreen.ae/
045
EnErgy and WatEr Leak detection and prevention GREEN PERSONALITY Cate Blanchett
Healing the Earth Academy Award-winner Cate Blanchett works hard to ensure a secure environment for her children Cate Blanchett has successfully married her passion for the arts with her environmental beliefs. “I’m extremely concerned about climate change as a mother,” the mother of three says, “because I want to ensure for my children a very safe and sustainable future.” The Oscar-winning Australian actor has spent over US $1.5m making her home eco-friendly, with a 20,000-litre water tank, solar panelling, energy-efficient lights, grey water recycling and so on. Cate and her husband, Andrew Upton, won the 2010 Green Globe Award for greening the Sydney Theatre Company (STC). In mid-2009, she won an Australian government commitment of $1m through its Green Precincts Fund to assist STC in its Greening The Wharf project, which will “deliver the majority of STC’s energy and water requirements from sustainable sources.” A further $1.7m was raised from the family foundation of Dr Zhengrong and Vivienne Shi, in partnership with the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering at the University of New South Wales. Some 2000 solar panels were installed on the roof of the Wharf, the harbour-side headquarters of STC, which along with other energy-saving measures aims to reduce the power STC draws from the grid by up to 70%. Blanchett is also an ambassador for the Australian Conservation Foundation and SolarAid, and in 2006, along with her two young sons and 40,000 other people, she participated in Sydney’s Walk Against Warming.
“I think there is an opportunity in climate change. We all know the depressing facts, but there is also the opportunity to re-ignite that sense of community. We are a very big, vast country and we forget that we have individual concerns in our communities, which are made up of individuals. We are all consumers, and if we change the way we consume and think in our communities, we can have an enormously powerful effect on governments that need to be lobbied and on the big polluters who need to be shamed into action. But it is grassroots action where the real opportunity in climate change lies.” In 2011, Blanchett starred in a television campaign urging Australians to support a carbon tax. The campaign called on the public to “Say Yes” to cutting carbon pollution. Nine organisations, including Greenpeace, the World Wildlife Fund and the Climate Institute, were behind the campaign. However, Blanchett’s involvement drew criticism from some political groups, who said that while she can afford to support the tax, ordinary citizens cannot. Responding to critics, Blanchett said she was unsurprised by opposition to the campaign and would not be deterred from spreading the message that climate change must be urgently addressed. Australia is the biggest per capita carbon emitter in the world, thanks to a booming resources industry and a reliance on coal-fired power. “I can’t look my children in the face if I’m not trying to do something in a small way and to urge other people,” she was quoted as saying.
“I think there is an opportunity in climate change. We all know the depressing facts, but there is also the opportunity to re-ignite that sense of community”
046
EnErgy and WatEr Leak detection and prevention GREEN PERSONALITY Cate Blanchett
047
SPECIAL REPoRt Green Economy
Towards a low-carbon economy A low-carbon energy transition could save the global economy trillions over the next 20 years two reports released recently by Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) clearly demonstrate that, with the right policies, a low-carbon energy system consistent with avoiding the most damaging effects of climate change could free up trillions of dollars over the next 20 years to invest in better economic growth. The first report, “Moving to a Low Carbon Economy: The Financial Impact of the Low-Carbon Transition”, compares the costs of low-carbon electricity and low-carbon transportation systems with current systems. The second, “Moving to a Low Carbon Economy: The Impact of Different Policy Pathways on Fossil Fuel Asset Values”, focuses on the risk of losses in the financial value of existing fossil fuel assets (so-called “asset stranding”). A loss in asset value is critical because it constrains governments’ and businesses’ ability to borrow against them to finance growth and investment, including investment in a lowcarbon transition. The reports were commissioned by the New Climate Economy project as part of research conducted for the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate. The reports find that governments, rather than private investors and corporations, face the majority of stranding risk. Governments own 50-70% of global oil, gas and coal resources, and collect taxes and royalties on the portion they do not own. This risk is concentrated in resource-owning and producing countries, particularly major oil producers. However, governments also control much of the policy that leads to either asset stranding or financial savings. The right policies maximise the financial benefits of a low-carbon transition. Moving to a low-carbon electricity system would bring the global economy an estimated US $1.8tn in financial savings between 2015 and 2035. This is because the significantly reduced operational costs associated with extracting and transporting coal and gas outweigh the increased financing costs for renewable energy, and the losses
048
in the value of existing fossil fuel assets. Moving from oil to low-carbon transport could increase global investment capacity by trillions – or result in net costs, depending on policy choices. Regions that import more oil than they produce, including the United States, Europe, China and India, stand to benefit most from reducing their oil consumption in favour of low-carbon alternatives, regardless of whether oilproducing countries choose to act. However, if oil-importing countries act then oil producers can significantly reduce the impact on their economies by shifting to low-carbon alternatives. Coal offers the largest emissions reduction for the least loss in financial value. Making the transition away from coal could achieve 80% of the needed emissions reductions for just 12% of the asset value at risk. It is also a cost-effective path to a low-carbon economy. Policies in the US and Europe combatting air pollution have put these regions on a path that will limit the risk of future losses in coal plants’ value. To limit asset stranding, China and India need alternatives to building planned coal-fired power plants. Reducing the cost of financing renewable energy plants can significantly lower the cost of transition across the world. In the US and Europe, expanding and improving financing vehicles that can efficiently channel low-cost institutional investment into low-carbon energy infrastructure could reduce the cost of low-carbon power by 20%. In developing countries, long-term, low-cost debt could reduce the cost of low-carbon power by 30%. Innovation and demand-focused policies are the best combination to limit loss of asset value. For example, a combination of taxes and innovation is the most promising policy approach to achieve net financial savings from the transition away from oil. Gas can be a bridge fuel for some regions until 2030. This is particularly true for China and India – but to limit loss in asset value, global usage of gas would need to decrease after this time.
We create chemistry that makes compost love plastic.
Most plastics don’t biodegrade, but ecovio® plastics from BASF disappear completely when composted in a controlled environment. Using compostable bags for collection of organic waste makes disposal more hygienic and convenient. Rather than ending up in landfills, the waste is turned into valuable compost. When the plastic bag you use today can mean a cleaner future for the environment, it’s because at BASF, we create chemistry.
www.wecreatechemistry.com