Bgreen november 2013 by BGreen

Issue 39 | november 2013

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INSIDE >> BGreen Awards 2013 Preview | Oman’s plan to meet water demands | Can ‘clean coal’ really work? SUPPORTED BY:

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EDITOR’S PAGE

Publisher Dominic De Sousa COO Nadeem Hood Founder Liam Williams Editorial Senior Editor Gary Wright gary.wright@cpimediagroup.com Contributing Editor Anoop K Menon anoop.menon@cpimediagroup.com Reporter Lorraine Bangera lorraine.bangera@cpimediagroup.com Advertising Director Harry Norman harry.norman@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9131 Manager Junaid Rafique junaid.rafique@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9134 Senior Director Jude Slann jude.slann@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9136 Marketing Manager Jasmine Kyriakou jasmine.kyriakou@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5676 Cesar Ypil cesar.ypil@cpimediagroup.com Design & Photography Senior Designer Marlou Delaben marlou.delaben@cpimediagroup.com Designer Cris Malapitan cris.malapitan@cpimediagroup.com Web Development Troy Maagma, Maher Waseem Shahzad Production and Circulation James P. Tharian, Rochelle Almeida Printed by Printwell Printing Press LLC Published by

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What does sustainability mean to you? S

ustainability actually means different things to different people and it’s no wonder some people get confused. As I write I’ve just returned from the Green Middle East Show in Sharjah and I have to say I rather enjoyed it. It’s not a big bustling show but I was impressed with the exhibitors, admiring of the speakers for the conference and ultimately agreed that while there were probably fewer visitors than such a show would attract in say Dubai, as one of the exhibitors pointed out, attendees were of a ‘higher quality’. A word too for show sponsor Bee’ah, which has made a Gary Wright successful business from from collecting and processing waste Senior Editor and at the same time has set a commendable standard in Sharjah Sustainability Division promising ‘zero waste to landfill by 2015’. So, that was a positive but my visit coincided a piece for The Guardian in the UK by Christopher Barnatt, an associate professor in Nottingham University Business School, and author of nine books, including Seven Ways to Fix the World. He’s an intelligent guy, with commendable environmental credentials, who deserves a hearing and argues quite simply that recycling does not equal sustainability. He said: “Certainly putting things into reuse rather than landfill is a good idea. But sadly no technology exists that can efficiently turn discarded products into pristine raw materials.” He goes onto say: “All current recycling is at best downcycling, as high-quality metals and plastics are reclaimed in low-quality guises with a limited range of applications.” Barnatt message is a simple one: consume less. But I must say I was disappointed to see the ease with which he dismissed recycling and seemed to ignore some brilliant work. If you are wondering whether it is possible to square the circle and live our lives with minimal damage to our planet, take a look at an organisation like TerraCycle. I really like these guys. Ten-year-old TerraCycle works with more than 100 major brands in the USA and 22 countries around the world to collect used packaging and products that would otherwise be destined for landfills. And here’s the clever part, it repurposes that waste into new, innovative materials and products that are available online and through major retailers. Surely Mr. Barnatt rather than dismissing recycling, another way would be to reconsider the way in which we view waste. Why should we have to turn it into the manufacturing materials we already know and understand? Why not turn it into new raw materials and then invent ways to use them? That’s what TerraCycle does and its most recent success is the reuse of “nonrecyclable” cigarette butts into a useful new raw material, which has earned the company worldwide attention. As individuals we know we must consume less, throw away less and look after what we have. But it’s not necessarily easy, especially when we expect our shiny new product to be properly packaged, complete with instructions for use or foodstuff to be hermetically sealed. So that is why we should congratulate those companies that are taking responsibility for their product from ‘cradle to the grave’. They are making it easier for us all to engage in sustainable living and ultimately ensuring a better future.

November 2013

CONTENTS

CONTENTS November 2013

News

10 MENA 12 WORLD 14 Really? Why the panda may help us to drive

Comment 16 UAE’s solar opportunity Dr Michael Krämer, Senior Associate and Energy Specialist at Taylor Wessing, Dubai, looks at the opportunities

ENERGY AND WATER 21 Lighting exhibition legacy This year’s Lighting Middle East Exhibition focussed on establishing a platform to showcase innovations in the industry 24 Sharjah green show The third Green Middle East environment management and technology exhibition at Sharjah Expo Centre attracted hundreds of visitors. BGreen was there 28 Oman’s waterways Dr Aisha Mufti Al-Qurashi, surface water expert at the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources outlines the plan to balance demand

CONSTRUCTION 32 Big 5 Show Preview A look at the GCC’s biggest construction show on November 25 to 28. Two days are dedicated to to Sustainable Design and Sustainable Construction including guidance on Dubai’s new Green Building Code

November 2013

12 34 Elevating excellence Hanna Uusitalo is responsible for ensuring that KONE’s meets its long-term sustainable objectives. She explains the end-to-end approach to sustainability

CONTENTS

34 BUsiness

22 SPECIAL FEATURE 38 Emit less... save more Ben Churchill is MD of leading UAE facilities mangement company, Emrill. It has pioneered an energy saving plan for building owners which can pay their FM costs

TECHNOLOGY 45 Making ‘clean coal’ a reality How coal will help meet future energy needs across the MENA region

LEISURE 46 Waving the Blue Flag The international eco-friendly beach award is increasingly spreading in the UAE 48 Recycling made easy BGreen takes a look at Bee’ah, which is not only the UAE’s finest waste collection and recycling company, but also sets an international standard

52 BGreen Awards 2013. Join Us. This is the biggest awards night in the GCC’s sustainability sector and this year it will be held on November 28 at Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai 55 Green Hotels How an increasingly environment-conscious consumer is helping to persuade hotel brands to adopt sustainable practices 60 DEWA reveals its success The CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) reviews its 2013 sustainability initiatives

SOCIETY 62 Green Personality Prince Albert II of Monaco has gone to the North and South Poles to raise awareness about climate change 65 Diary dates Events, conferences and roundtables 66 Sustainable past Before electric fridges mankind found all sorts of ways to keep their food fresh. In Persia people utilised a sustainable, natural building

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Expert Panel

Saeed Alabbar

Thomas Bohlen

LEED AP, Estidama PQP Vice Chairman Emirates Green Building Council Director Alabaar Energy and Sustainability Group

NCARB,LEED AP, BD +C, ESTIDAMA PQP Chief Technical Officer Middle East Centre for Sustainable Development

Dr Michael Kr채mer

DR Mutasim Nour

IVANO IANNELLI

Senior Associate Taylor Wessing (Middle East) LLP Legal Counsel Emirates Solar Industry Association

Director of MSc Energy Heriot Watt University, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence

William Whistler

Abdulrahman Jawahery President Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company Chairman GPCA Responsible Care Initiative

His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Ali Al Nuaimi

Environmental Advisor Ajman Government Chief Executive Officer Al Ihsan Charity Centre Chairman International Steering Committee Global Initiative Towards a Sustainable Iraq, UAE

The BGreen Expert Panel provides a platform for those across a wide sector of industries who are active in encouraging sustainable practices. 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.

Roderick Wiles

TANZEED ALAM

Managing Director Green Building Solutions International

Director - Africa, Middle East, India and Oceania American Hardwood Export Council

POLICY DIRECTOR EWS-WWF

Alan Millin

JosE Alberich

PAOLO CERVINI

The Panel is growing as we seek to form the ultimate taskforce of decision makers, academics, consultants and engineers that contribute and encourage a sustainable watershed across industries. If you would like to nominate an expert to join our panel, please email Gary.wright@cpimediagroup.com

STRATEGIC ICT PARTNER

November 2013

LEED AP, Chartered Engineer consultant/trainer Middle East Facility Management Association

PARTNER AT Kearney

innovation partner

Vice president & General manager Philips Lighting Middle East & Turkey Philips

NEWS | MENA

Dubai launches State of Energy Report 2014

The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence (DCCE) has unveiled the first State of the Energy Report.

The report aims to build a collaborative platform to enable a knowledge economy to spur growth of both green and sustainable development. It was released on October 22 to coincide with World Energy Day at the Expo 2020 Theme Symposium in Dubai by HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy (pictured left). He said: “First and foremost, this report is a reference for all the necessary knowledge and best practices for the energy sector. It provides the basis for a knowledge economy, which will be one of the main factors for the successful achievement of the vision of our wise leadership to transform Dubai into a Smart City.”

DSCE honours winners at the Emirates Energy AwardS Dubai Supreme Council of Energy revealed the winners of the Emirates Energy Awards on October 27 at the Grand Hyatt hotel in Dubai. The ceremony is held every two years and HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy told guests: “The Award highlights best global experiences and practices that enhance the rational use of energy, promote the sustainable use of alternative clean resources, reduce dependence on traditional resources to mitigate environmental pollution, strengthen the role of institutions and individuals, and raise awareness on the importance of rationalised use of energy and environmental protection.” Winners: Large Energy Project: Gold: Morocco-based NAREVA Holding Silver: the Shams Power Company (UAE) Bronze: Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) Small Energy Project: Gold: Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company ‘du’ (UAE) Silver: Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry Bronze: Empower Company (UAE)

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Energy Efficiency for Public Sector: Gold: Masdar (UAE) Silver: RTA (UAE) Bronze: RasGas (Qatar) Energy Efficiency for Private Sector: Gold: Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate (UAE) Silver: Arab Contractors Company (Egypt) Bronze: ABB/ Al-Khaleej Sugar Company (UAE) Education Energy Award: Gold: Friends of Environment Society (Jordan) Silver: Dr. Hanan Talib (UAE) Bronze: HSBC Bank (UAE) Research & Development Award: Gold: Ayman Adnan Almaitah (Jordan) Silver: University of Bahrain Bronze: Nitrate Production System (Jordan) Young Professional Energy Award: Gold: Abdul Aziz Al Obaidli (UAE) Silver: Mahmoud Shatel (Jordan) Bronze:Aisha Ali, Aya Abu Hani & Noora Rashed Al Kaizi (UAE) The Special Recognition Award was given to organisations that succeeded in reducing their energy consumption and included: Saudi Aramco (KSA) and Emirates Transport for use of cleaner fuels.

World Energy Day opening for DUBAI solar park His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the VicePresident and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai chose World Energy Day (Oct 22) to commission the first phase of Dubai’s mega solar park named after him. It started feeding 13MW of energy to the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA) network through photovoltaic technology, generating 24 million KWh of electricity per year. The next phase of the plant was also launched, which will produce 100MW through publicprivate partnership within three years and by 2030, the solar plant will have a power production capacity of 1,000MW.

MAF’s five-year sustainable plan Majid Al Futtaim Properties (MAF) has launched its fiveyear sustainability strategy, which aims to strengthen the company’s position as a global leader. It was announced at the company’s third annual Sustainability Summit in Sheraton Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Dubai. George Kostas, MAF CEO, said: “Today MAF is ranked as the leading property company in the Middle East, and according to the 2013 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) survey, we rank second in the AsiaPacific region and in the top 133 property businesses worldwide.” Ibrahim Al Zu’bi, Head of Sustainability, said: “It is our vision to enhance people’s lives through sustainable real estate. This is an evolving commitment and we are proud that our commitment thus far has included achievements such as a 17% reduction in water consumption in our malls and a 15% reduction in our hotels.”

NEWS | world

Palm oil Biolfuel rule increases rainforest DANGER New regulations requiring a higher concentration of palm oil in Malaysian biodiesel fuel blend has increased fears that the country’s rainforests will be wiped out faster. The new B7 biofuel blend would increase the palm oil component of biodiesel to 7%, up from the current 5%. Critics say adding more palm oil to the blend means more rainforest land will be leared to make oil palm plantations, putting indigenous communities and wildlife at risk, including the critically endangered orangutan. “So far the direction from the ministry is quite clear - we’re really moving to B7,” an official from the Malaysian Biodiesel Association told the online news service Malaysian Insider. Malaysia is the world’s second-largest palm oil producer behind Indonesia and production

is one of the primary drivers of deforestation in Southeast Asia earning Indonesia its place as the world’s third largest global warming polluter behind China and the United States. Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas said the government is in the final stages of drawing up the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification to improve standards and the image of locally-produced palm oil products. Douglas said certification takes into account 60 local laws, including environment and wildlife legislation along with other state laws. Although many foreign organisations buy only palm oil which meets standards set out by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, the criteria is too expensive for Malaysian smallholders, said Douglas. The MSPO will address the impact of the palm oil industry on the Orang Asli indigenous

minority peoples of Peninsular Malaysia, deforestation, lost of biodiversity and the impact on wildlife including the orangutan. Friends of the Earth Europe released a report in September saying Europe’s use of palm oil for automotive fuel stands at 20% of the biodiesel mix. The EU consumes 40% more palm oil – for fuel, food and cosmetics – today compared to six years ago, despite continual warnings about the unsustainability of palm oil expansion.

Agricultural engineer says tobacco could be used to produce biofuels Good news last month for tobacco growers, especially in emerging nations, worried that the health risks from smoking might one day affect their business, as their plants could help power the next generation of motor cars. Research from the Public University of Navarre in Spain has reported that genetically modified tobacco plants are viable as raw material for producing biofuels. Ruth Sanz-Barrio, an agricultural engineer at the university and a researcher at the Institute of Biotechnology, says that specific tobacco proteins – known as thioredoxins –can be used to produce biofuels. “We believe these genetically modified plants could be a good alternative for producing biofuels,”Sanz-Barrio told European journalists. “With these sugars, according to the theoretical calculation provided by the National Centre for Renewable Energies, one could obtain up to 40 litres of bioethanol per tonnes of fresh leaves.”

November 2013

China is the world’s largest tobacco grower producing four times more than the second biggest India with Brazil and the USA in third and fourth place. Thirteen countries in Europe grow tobacco including Spain, home to the university, Italy, EU’s largest producer, and neighboring

France, which has made its unique dark tobacco cigarettes for more than a century. Tobacco production in the EU has fallen dramatically in the past two decades as farming subsidies were withdrawn and fewer people took up smoking and now accounts for just 4% of world production.

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NEWS | Really?

Panda poo mAY be A key to mankind’s future fuel needs? China’s giant panda might just offer a bacterial solution to cheaper biofuels. Scientists are investigating how one of the world’s most endangered species might help make A less ENVIRONMENTALLY damaging fuel

he giant panda has been the symbol of endangered animals since WWF chose Chi Chi, Britain’s most loved zoo animal, to be its mascot in 1961. Now researchers have discovered that the bacteria found in giant panda intestines and faeces is ideal for converting grass or bamboo into biofuels. The estimated population of giant pandas in the wild is around 2,000 and another 200 others still living in captivity. Its deterioration is blamed on a fall in habitat to

November 2013

support its specialised diet, and a low rate of reproduction. Bamboo makes up 99% of the giant panda’s diet in the wild and an adult spends up to 16 hours a day eating, consuming up to 40lbs (18kg) of bamboo. And that produces a lot of waste. Pandas’ intestinal flora break down lignocellulose (biomass) and convert them into nutrients. If pursued and developed, the nutrients could be used to harvest switchgrass or wood chips, as the feedstock for biofuel. The study was conducted by

American Chemical Society, researcher Ashli Brown said: “We hope our research will help expand the use of biofuels in the future and help cut dependency on foreign oil. We also hope it will reinforce the importance of wildlife conservation.” Brown estimated that under certain conditions these panda can produce bacteria which can convert about 95% of plant biomass into simple sugars, the building blocks of biofuel. The bacteria contains enzymes which can accelerate chemical reactions and eliminate the need for high heat, harsh acids and high pressures commonly used in regular biofuel production processes. The process tend to be time consuming, energy-intensive, and expensive, whereas the species’ bacteria could provide a simpler, cleaner and economical way to make biofuels. Brown said: “The discovery also teaches a lesson about the importance of biodiversity and preserving endangered animals. Animals and plants are a major source of medicines and other products that people depend on. When we lose them to extinction, we may lose potential sources of these products.” The US Department of Energy, The Memphis Zoological Society, the Mississippi Corn Promotion Board, and the Southeastern Research Center at Mississippi State provided funding for this study.

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Comment | Krämer

Sustainability on the rise in the UAE Dr Michael Krämer, Senior Associate and Energy Specialist at international law firm Taylor Wessing, Dubai, outlines where he sees opportunities for the solar sector in the UAE

I Dr Michael Krämer

November 2013

t is no secret that Dubai has put is still more expensive than the (highly forward a bid to host the Expo subsidised) power supply from the 2020 and this is good news in public grid. Hence, both DEWA and any case. ADWEA are looking into offering The vote takes place on November 27 schemes that will aim to bridge the gap and if Dubai wins it will have a dramatic between conventional energy supply effect on the country and once again and self-generated solar energy. It is not focus attention on the emirate. yet clear how these incentive schemes It’s interesting how Dubai has will look like in the end, but it seems sought to differentiate itself from its safe to assume that private investments competitors Yekaterinburg in Russia, into solar energy generation will Izmir in Turkey and Sao Paulo in become an interesting proposition. Brazil. A key focus of the Dubai 2020 The beauty of the utilities creating bid has been sustainability. Fifty percent of all energy needs for the Expo site (south There is no need to transform of the city around Jebel Ali) will be generated on-site from the UAE population into renewable sources. treehuggers, which would be In addition, a substantial difficult anyway… there are amount of recycled materials will be used for the construction, more people than trees.” while waste water will be recycled and reused as well. Dubai’s Expo related efforts are just incentives for private solar investments one element of a general trend towards is manifold. Not only will it be possible a more sustainable lifestyle in the UAE, for those who are interested in living a however. Let us not forget, the UAE is more sustainable lifestyle to supplement still one of the biggest carbon emitters their energy requirements with clean globally, so this new trend is very energy. It will also have an overall welcome indeed. learning effect since energy generation Both, the Dubai Electricity and will become more visible. Water Authority (DEWA) and the Abu At present, electricity is just Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority something that is a) produced (ADWEA) are currently looking more somewhere far away with nobody really closely into encouraging commercial having an interest where electricity enterprises and residents to install solar is coming from and b) cheap, so c) plants on the roofs of their facilities and electricity is not really on anybody’s homes. At present, energy generated mind. An unwanted side effect of this is from comparatively small solar plants that we tend to waste anything we do

not have any relationship with which, in turn, is a major reason for the fact that carbon emissions in the UAE are so high. This will change if electricity becomes more tangible. A positive side effect of people generating their own energy is that these people tend to become much more conscious of what it takes to produce the energy we tend to take for granted. In the medium term, this will encourage people to take a more responsible approach towards energy usage. There is a large gap between using energy irresponsibly and being a treehugger. Yet, there is no need to transform the UAE population into treehuggers (which would be difficult anyway, given that there are probably more people than trees in this country), but people using their minds when using energy would be a fair start indeed. We are, no doubt, just at the beginning of a process of transformation of the UAE into a country that supports a more sustainable approach to its environment. The wheels are in motion, however, and are slowly picking up speed. As with so many other things before, the UAE is spearheading this move in the region and we have the chance to be part of it. History unfolding. Good news for the region. Dr. Michael Krämer Senior Associate Taylor Wessing (Middle East) LLP m.kraemer@taylorwessing.com

ADVertorial | RAWLPLUG

Past Prior to John Joseph Rawlings’ invention of the Rawlplug, the method used to attach a fixture to brick or stone was rather unrefined; It involved chiselling out a large hole in the base material and hammering in a wedge of wood. A screw was then driven into the wood to make the connection. J.J. Rawlings’ invention, patented by 1913, ultimately led to the formation of The Rawlplug Company and demonstrated that there was an easier and safer way. 100 years on, concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world and our understanding of anchoring into concrete has grown accordingly. Rawlplug has been a leading brand in the manufacture and promotion of fixing products around the world since its foundation in 1919, and not surprisingly the company, is second to none in the industry, when it comes to development of mechanical and bonded anchors.

First ever hammer drill (Rawlplug, 1928)

Box of Rawlplugs (1943)

Present One of the Rawlplug’ s Fasteners and Fixings Factories located in Lancut (Poland), which exists since 1957, is currently the biggest manufacturer of fasteners in Central-Eastern Europe. It is producing around 30 thousand tones of fasteners yearly with

November 2013

Rawplug design in J.J. Rawlings original patent

quality guarantee according to DIN, ISO, ANSI, EN, BS. A large range of heat-treated products is offered in many different anticorrosion coatings according to client’s requirements. For many years, Rawlplug Factory has been producing fasteners for heavy machineries, architecture and mining industry and mainly for the automotive industry (BMW, VW). The factory delivers a first sample certificate, which confirms the product quality – according to PPAP LEVEL 3. Today, the Lancut factory is a main production facility for Rawlplug mechanical heavy duty fixings. The high position of the Lancut fasteners factory in the market is a direct result of the best quality products, production flexibility, hi-tech facilities, own R&D department and the best qualified people. Rawlplug have concern for the environment to make a cleaner, more efficient organization. Being green means more than vague aspirations, it means efficient use of power and resources, which cut costs and improve competitiveness. By Certifying its heavy duty anchors manufacturing plant in Lancut to ISO 14001 global standard for environmental management, they offer proof of that commitment.

ADVertorial | RAWLPLUG

Rawlplug goes green To further maintain sustainability, Rawlplug has implemented a project called “Sustainable Rawlplug”, which is based on four pillars: Sustainable Management Environment, the needs of present and future generations, and the economy are three major aspects of sustainability that synthetize with the concepts of all company operations. Energy & Water Resources Strategy for reducing natural resources consumption throughout Rawlplug: This approach is both environmental and economic – by reducing expenditures on energy and water,

company is also reducing the impact of its activities on the environment. Corporate Social Responsibility Rawlplug is always actively involved in the life of the regions, in which it operates and from which it derives. It supports people in need of assistance, offers the supplies of materials to localities affected by natural disasters, subsidizes various initiatives, sponsors events, offers support for sick children. The company brings aid to charities, local authorities, schools, and cultural associations. It also supports initiatives aimed at promoting health, culture, art and road safety. Rawlplug likes to help. By doing so it has a beneficial effect on the environment in which it operates and sets a good example for other

companies.Furthermore, it creates a positive image, strengthens the loyalty of the existing and prospective customers, gaining the favor of local communities. Through these actions the company is seen as an integral part of the region, while the cooperation with schools, foundations and hospitals is becoming part of the Rawlplug Group’s corporate culture. Sustainable Supply Chain Rawlplug collaborates with both suppliers and clients to cut the cost and environmental impact. Company set the goals for raw materials suppliers and transportation partners for years ahead and monitor their performance. The goal is to always look to reduce the carbon footprint of our products.

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ADVertorial | RAWLPLUG

Eco Friendly Design packaging system In general all Rawlplug packaging is recyclable. The recycling symbol and Green Dot symbol are applicable to all types of packaging. The Green Dot scheme falls under the European “Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive - 94/62/EC” which is binding for all companies if their products use packaging and requires manufacturers to recover their own packaging. Rawlplug wish to demonstrate that the reuse and recycling of used packaging is an important step on the path towards the sustainable development that is necessary to safeguard our planet for future generations. Rawlplug has a transparent disposal policy and intends to have the appropriate disposal symbols on every type of packaging. Rawlplug uses sustainable water-based Flexo inks for printing on packaging, these consist of pigments that contain no heavy metals. This means no lead, cadmium, chromium, antimony, arsenic, mercury or nickel. Inks also have no volatile organic compounds.

November 2013

A volatile organic compound (VOC) as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is “any compound of carbon which when emitted or volatilized into the air participates in atmospheric photo-chemical reactions that result in the formation of toxic ozone.” Inks contain alternative, nonpetroleum-based materials instead of petroleum-based products in the varnish portion of the ink. This alternative is produced from renewable resources such as vegetable oils such as soy, and paper rosins. Think about the environmental and cost impact of replacing just half a liter of petroleum in each bucket of ink every day for a year. Research & Development Rawlplug currently have four research and development centres for different product groups: Plastic Anchors and Resin Bonded Anchors in Wroclaw, Poland; Fasteners in Ła cut, Poland and Mechanical Anchors in Glasgow, UK – the home of Rawlplug for the past 44 years. Achieving European Technical Approvals is a key pillar in the group strategy, with product development tailored for

functioning and performance in challenging environments including cracked concrete. The company is committed to maintaining this drive towards innovation in highperformance anchor technology

Koelner-Rawlplug ME FZE Tel: +971 4 347 57 18 Fax: +971 4 347 57 19 e-mail: info@rawl.ae www.rawlplug.com

ENERGY & WATER

LED leads the way at Lighting Middle East

Lighting accounts for

19%

of electricity consumption worldwide

One of the region’s leading conference and exhibitions for lighting design and technology, was held last month. The event focussed on establishing a platform to showcase innovations in the lighting industry, where key industry decision makers could meet major international manufacturers and solution providers. Lorraine Bangera reports

Michael Dehn, Group Exhibition Director, Epoc Messe Frankfurt GmbH

e are not through the technological revolution yet, we are still in it,” said Micheal Dehn, the Group Exhibitions Director of Epoc Messe Frankfurt, Germany’s leading trade fair organiser, responsible for he sixth Lighting Middle East. He was speaking about the impact of innovation in the region. This year’s exhibition had 253 exhibitiors from 25 countries, which marks a 15% increase since 2012. Dehn said: “After the recession, Lighting Middle East saw a glimmer of hope in the 2012’s

showcase. The show has always been a reflection of the economy, which is doing pretty well looking at how successful this year’s show has been.” He explained how what is

displayed at the showcase usually has a knock-on effect later, as investors consider their options for the near future. Sustainability has been the crux of this year’s show with almost every

November 2013

ENERGY & WATER

LED consumption estimated to reach around

$390m 15%

in 2015 and

to account for total consumption

A switch to new light technology could save up to

70%

innovation pushing energy-efficient in lighting. Dehn said: energy costs for “LED and energy offices saving is the future. HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer made it clear in his opening speech at the event, he began with asking ‘how much are you saving?’ The mentality is now all about sustainability.” The transition in the market can affect many sectors including established lighting companies. Dehn said: “The big companies today, are known for products that have been in the market for 100 years, there is no guarantee that they will still be on the top in the next five years. To keep their position, they have to consider energy saving and adapt to the transition. Vice versa there are small companies who have

November 2013

concentrated on innovations, and if they play it smart they could be at the top in five years. “The exciting part of it is to see how the market changes, and help investor make essential decisions – that is where an exhibition plays a major role.” As an exhibition director, Dehn has found it interesting to watch exhibitors compete with one another. He said: “Yesterday, a CEO of a major brand was walking around the exhibition with his technology chief. Both were critically examining the competitors’ products and stalls. Everyone is watching everyone, which is a sign of a healthy and competitive market.” Future Zone The exhibition had an area dedicated to showcasing product innovations, trends and concepts called the Future Zone. Exhibitors in Future Zone included GE Lighting, LG Electronics, iGuzzini Middle East, ACDC, ERCO Lighting, Linea Light Group, Osram, and Trilux. iGuzzini presented the compact and bright Laser Blade which is the first indoor linear LED recessed fitting with a circular light emission. Richard Holmes, iGuzzini Middle East regional director, said: “It has long been the desire of many architects and designers to have light without seeing light fittings. With the development of Laser blade, iGuzzini has achieved this.”

Also at the Future Zone, GE Lighting presented its latest LuminationTM LED Linear. Suspended from the ceiling, this luminaire combines aesthetics and space-filling lighting, all contained within a premium-quality aluminium frame. GE Lighting also presented the ERS LED Scalable Street Lighting range of luminaires that provide energy efficient roadway lighting. George Bou Mitri, GE Lighting’s general manager of Middle East, Africa and Turkey, said: “We are bringing in cutting-edge solutions that enhance visibility, reduce environmental pollution and contribute to significant long-term savings in energy consumption of up to 75%.” Speaking to BGreen about Lighting Middle East, Bou Mitri said: “Lighting Middle East is the most important platform for us. It highlights the latest technologies in the Middle East, which is one of the most important markets for us.” What we took away from the exhibition was the major role lighting industry played in energy consumption. Bou Mitri agreed and said: “Over 12% of the world’s energy is consumed by electricity. To change that figure, lighting is your best choice.” Taking over almost 60 countries, Bou Mitru highlighted some of the similar trends in various countries in the GCC. He said: “When we are talking about the GCC, the main trend is the discussion about the standards and regulations. As the new technologies are now in the market, the governments of the region are now looking at what makes a good standard to measure a product. And when it comes to regulations, the question posing as a barrier might be: how to set new regulations, that you have never set before, to use lighting as an enabler to a better economy?”

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ENERGY & WATER

‘Quality not quantity’ makes Sharjah green show special The third Green Middle East environment management and technology exhibition at Expo Centre Sharjah attracted hundreds of visitors. BGreen went along to speak with exhibitors and discover the attraction of this successful show

Sponsor Bee’ah’s stand at Green Middle East, Sharjah’s Expo Centre

November 2013

reen Middle East 2013 was billed as “bringing together key global players and regional majors keen to explore the industry”, the three-day event was held under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan and hosted by waste management experts Bee’ah. His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, opened the show, which was attended by Princess Basma Bint Ali, Royal Family of Jordan and Founder of the Royal Botanic Garden of Jordan; Dr Rashid Ahmed Bin

Fahad, UAE Minister of Environment and Water; Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah; Khalid Al Huraimel, Group CEO of Bee’ah, — The Sharjah Environment Co., Ragheb Alama, Arab celebrity and UNEP goodwill ambassador, and government officials and industry representatives. The three-day exhibition and conference at the Expo Centre Sharjah ran from October 28 to 30 with a full conference programme with a key focus on waste management and energy conservation. Alongside the conferences, which attracted hundreds of visitors, one exhibition hall had stands from some of the most influential players in the GCC recycling market. Zaki Siddiqui is the managing partner of the General Machinery Agency who has been selling waste collection machinery for more than 40 years and he was full of praise for the Sharjah show. “What you get here is quality, everyone who visits has an interest in the industry and there is a lot of expertise,” said Siddiqui, who is the main agent for the UAE, as well as Afghanistan and Iraq. Standing alongside one of the Johnson Sweeper conversions, based on a Volvo chassis, Siddiqui points out that rubbish, cleaning and waste collection in Al Ain are all carried out by CMA-supplied equipment. “This is a good show and as customers become more specific

in their clean-up requirements, I go to them and ask first: ‘What do you want your equipment to do?’ from there once I understand their needs I can provide the right machine.” Palletco the UAE’s only manufacturer of industrial plastic packaging was at Green Middle East keen to explain the benefits of plastic over wood, which is often considered ‘sustainable’. Sales manager Malik Akhtar said the show offered an ideal platform to explain the company’s philosophy and meet buyers. He told BGreen: “We are the only manufacturer in the UAE and distribute across the GCC. “For things like pallets many people consider wood, especially if they are told that it is sustainable. But the fact is that a lot of this wood comes from Asian countries and it is easier to get a certificate saying the product comes from sustainable sources, when in fact that’s true for as little as 20%.” He explained that all of the polypropylene and polystyrene used by Palletco is sustainable. The company recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and employs 150 people in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. “We produce more than 100 products, from pallets and crates to pallet boxes and waste bins,” said Akhtar. “We use plastic pellets which we buy mainly in the region and our success means we are building a new facility between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.”

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ENERGY & WATER Akhtar said that the plastic products it produces really are sustainable. “Firstly, they are made from recycled plastic, secondly they will last for two years, while wood is often discarded after one use, and thirdly, our products can be recycled again. In fact we offer to take and recycle any broken or damaged proucts from our customers.” Green initiatives Emirates Transport (ET) had a lot to demonstrate at the show and the organisation responsible for all the school transport across the UAE. It operates more than 12,000 vehicles across the country and each year 15,000 tyres were being dumped into landfill and ET has turned that around in year with its retreading scheme. Now ET has reduced the tyres to landfill by almost half and at the Sharjah show it demonstrated how it worked. Pramod Karuthedath is the factory manager who said: ”Tyres are worn

Emirates Transport CNG bus, Gas coniainers stored in luggage area.

out by 25,000km but the tyre carcass is good for 50,000km and that means they can receive a new tread.” He explained the process of removal of the old rubber, ensuring the wire reinforcement is not rusted or weakened and then turning it into a new tyre in the Malaysian curing chamber that can turn out 24 ‘new’ tyres every two-and-a-half hours. But Karuthedath said inspections was vital to ensure there was no damage to the orginal carcass, if there is, it is thrown away. He said: “Safety is a priority and while we can repair some damage, there are strict guidelines on what can be reused.” And there is a huge saving as well both in terms of money and carbon emissions: a new tyre costs AED1,300, the cost of a re-treaded tyre is AED450, that’s 70% plus carbon emissions are 30% lower. Visitors to the show were genuinely appreciative of the scheme by ET, which is the biggest producer

conversion centres, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). And ET was showing off its waterless vehicle washing. Utilising a liquid which lifts dirt, wipes off and leaves a polished surface, saves around 250 litres of water on each wash and the compound (produced in the USA by Freedom) is environmentally friendly. “We use it on our own vehicles, Emirates University vehicles and those vehicles at Emirates Palace, including the VIP cars and limousines,” said Ata Said Ali Mohammad, ET’s head of sales.

Pros and cons of compressed natural gas Advantages:

Pramod Karuthedath, Emirates Transport’s tyre factory manager

Malik Akhtar, sales manager at Palletco

November 2013

of scrap tyres in the emirates thanks to its huge fleet. But it was not just tyres that ET brought to the show: It displayed its conversions for vehicles to run on compressed natural gas (CNG). ET has converted 3,000 of its vehicles to run on CNG instead of petrol as well as 500 taxis and 500 police vehicles. It also provides technical maintenance services for CNG converted vehicles in addition to all related support services through a cadre of qualified professionals working in the corporation’s CNG

•

CNG is cheaper than petrol.

•

CNG is more eco-friendly than gasoline with far fewer harmful emissions and hydrocarbons than petrol – carbon monoxide down 93%, hydrocarbons by 50% and nitrogen oxides by 33%.

•

Using CNG makes the engine cleaner and more efficient. There are no harmful carbon deposits when combusted, so lubricating oil is cleaner for longer. Spark plugs and catalytic converters last longer.

•

Natural gas is abundant in the US and Middle East.

•

CNG has higher octane levels and engines run quieter.

Disadvantages: •

CNG tanks require storage space – a problem for cars but not for school buses.

•

There are not enough filling stations in the UAE (or the world yet) to encourage widespread use.

To learn more about the full range of services call us on 04-88 500 33 | Fax 04-88 549 09 | P.O.Box 91812 or email sales@grakonet.com | Dubai, UAE | www.grakonet.com

ENERGY & WATER

OMAN’S PLAN TO MEET WATER DEMAND The Sultanate of Oman has developed a National Water Resources Master Plan to manage the country’s water resources. Anoop K Menon asks Dr Aisha Mufti Al-Qurashi, surface water expert, Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources, Sultanate of Oman to outline the plan, which seeks to balance demand and availability of water resources What is the growth rate of water demand in Oman, and which sectors are the major water consumers? Average water demand is about 1,872 million m3 with an increase of 35% compared to 2000. Agricultural demand has increased by 36% compared to that of 2000 (1,546 Mm3 compared to 1,131 Mm3). Urban demand has increased 35% more compared to that of 2000 (88 Mm3/year compared to 25 Mm3). Agricultural demand is the highest with about 95% of the total abstractions, as the latest study shows, compared to only 5% for other sectors. Available data indicate that the quantities of consumed water exceeds available resources by about 316 Mm3. The highest deficits are also linked with the highest demand that originate from agriculture.

Dr Aisha Mufti Al-Qurashi,

November 2013

Could you give us a break-up of Oman’s water resources? What are the main challenges for Oman in terms of managing these resources? The available water resources in Oman are of two types: conventional and nonconventional. Surface water resources

represent 6% while groundwater, which is the main water source, represents 94% of conventional water resources. In order to achieve a balance between renewable resources and increasing water demand, an effort was made to augment non-conventional water resources through the construction of seawater desalination plants, storage dams, recharge dams and wastewater collection and treatment facilities. The latest water balance study results show that 51 mm/year, rainfall provides a volume of 15,841 million m3. With 79% (12,553 Mm3/year) lost due to evaporation and initial absorption. However, this figure is highly variable, ranging from 167 mm/ year in Musandam to 15 mm/year in Haymah with a bias towards the large areas in central Oman with little or no rainfall (for example, Haymah and Najd). The total annual runoff through Wadis is 330 Mm3/year, whereas the direct recharge from rainfall is 2,397 Mm3/year. Total average annual water demand is 1,872 Mm3/year, where the net agricultural demand (1,546 Mm3/year) is mainly met by water supplied from Falaj flow and abstractions from groundwater

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ENERGY & WATER

using wells with a minor contribution from capillary flux, making up 95% of the total groundwater abstraction of the Sultanate of Oman with urban requirements (88 Mm3/year) comprising the other 5%. Gross urban demand (105 Mm3/year) is met by desalination water and groundwater abstractions. Desalination plants provide 10% of the total demand and wastewater treatment plants provide about 2%. The study shows that the total deficit is 316 Mm3/year. The high agricultural demands are the main reason for the deficit in some areas as in the Al Batinah coast, which has led to saline intrusion in some cases. Saline intrusion is calculated to occur along the Al Batinah coast with an average annual inflow of 59 Mm3/year. It is clear that the main challenge is the keeping the balance between available resources and increasing demand through the adoption of an approach that seeks to harmonise the requirements of development with available water resources.

•

• •

•

• What are the steps taken by the Ministry to encourage rational use of water? The National Water Resources Master Plan has three broad-based principles - Supply actions, Demand management actions and Quality control actions. The key issues being addressed by the government through the plan are as follows: • Balancing water use to availability • Adopting improved irrigation techniques and selecting appropriate crops to reduce agricultural water use • Managing water resources effectively and efficiently • Increasing the use of treated wastewater and desalinated water • Minimising water pollution, flood damages and drought consequences

November 2013

Provision of sufficient water to spur and sustain economic development Provision of access to safe, adequate and affordable water supply, hygiene and sanitation Protecting the groundwater resources in qualitative and quantitative terms Creating and cultivating conservation awareness Establishing an integrated programme for the conservation and management of the resources at basin level Controlling saline intrusion by reducing abstraction below the long-term recharge Controlling urban water losses

EXplain Oman’s surface water management strategy? Facing rapid increase in demand with very limited natural water resources and decrease in rainfall, which is the main source of water resources (as the records show) is our greatest challenge. Oman depends mainly on groundwater, the renewal of which depends on direct recharge from rainfall, which is decreasing. There is also the danger of using up all the non-renewable resources and aquifers, which should be treated as strategic future resource and emergency reserve. Being an arid country, Oman does not have perennial rivers but Wadis that flow only after intense rainfall events and for short periods, sometimes as short as a few hours. Constant flow can only be seen in

few Wadis like Dayqah. Other sources of surface water are the Ghaili aflaj which is based on the perennial flow in a Wadi. These types of aflaj represent 48% of the total number of aflaj in the Sultanate. Springs also constitute a surface water resource, with the majority being located in mountainous areas, discharging their water from two major geological formation - Al Hajar limestones and the ophiolites. Great efforts are being made by the government to ensure sustainable use of these limited resources through continuous maintenance of Ghaili aflaj. The government is continuing with its programme to construct recharge and storage dams to capture and store the Wadi flows instead of letting them end up in the desert or the sea. Protection dams are also being constructed to protect downstream villages and towns from severe floods and cyclones. These dams aid in groundwater recharge too. Fog collection, cloud seeding and rain water harvesting are some of the other solutions being studied by the government, with few already being implemented. From a wastewater recycling/re-use standpoint, what has been the progress in Oman? Oman’s production of treated water is around 25,000 m3 daily and about 42 Mm3 annually. In the Governorate of Muscat, the first phase of the expansion of both wastewater collection network and the treatment stations have been completed, enabling the production of an additional 70,000 m3/day. It is expected that production of treated water will increase gradually to 100 Mm3 by the year 2030. However, treated wastewater is being used on a large scale for beautification, and in some cases, for groundwater recharge. In Salalah, a 20,000 m3/day wastewater treatment re-injection project was initiated in 2003 to reduce seawater intrusion along the coastal area of the Salalah plain. The subject of treated wastewater re-use has been accorded top priority as it will help conserve fresh water resources while relieving the stress on ground and surface waters, especially if the current studies are implemented and the treated water could be used in agriculture to minimise the stress on depleted groundwater aquifers.

construction

Big 5 focuses on future New Dubai green build code at BIG 5 Dubai Municipality will be presenting the latest Dubai Green Building Code at the show due. The legislation, which comes into force next year, will be mandatory for all new buildings across residential, commercial and industrial sectors. The code covers a range of construction features, including building vitality, ecology, as well as energy, water and waste efficiency and effectiveness.

ig 5 is the Middle East’s largest construction exhibition and this year it will be the biggest show Dubai has hosted. There will be a raft of new features promising an even better experience. Educational events will include seminars presented by the Dubai Municipality and Society of Engineers, LEED training and the two-day Sustainable Design and Construction Conference. The show runs from November 25 to 28 at The Dubai World Trade Centre. The Big 5 Party will be the construction industry’s networking event of the year. The two-day conference will be opened at 10am on Tuesday November 26 by Saeed Alabbar, Director, AESG; ViceChairman, Emirates Green Building Council. The first day will have then theme Sustainable Design and the second day focuses on Sustainable

You can see a full seminar programme on our website

www.bgreen.ae

November 2013

Construction with a range of presentations and panel discussions including: • Balancing iconic local architecture with sustainable design • Achieving higher LEED scores through developing a more energy efficient built environment • Smart buildings, BIM and intelligent design to maximise the performance and reduce the energy consumption of your building • New methods and strategies to drive sustainable building practices across the region • New technologies and opportunities in waste and wastewater treatment, recycling and reuse

Seminars will include a comprehensive overview of the testing procedures of products within the new regulations and the certification process. Engineer Abdulla Rafia, Assistant Director General of Engineering at the Dubai Municipality, said: “We are ready, our testing and certification centres are ready - we want to ensure that the industry is also ready and has access to the training and information they require in advance of the launch. The free-to-attend seminars will also provide key insight into the progress of Dubai’s construction market, and the key successes and challenges, including that of meeting the increased demand for power and water that comes with the on-going growth and development. “New legislation from Dubai Municipality is an important step towards realising sustainable construction processes.”

construction

Elevating excellence Hanna Uusitalo joined KONE in 2008 when the company set Environmental Excellence as one of its strategic imperatives. As Environmental Director, Uusitalo is responsible for ensuring that KONE’s meets its long-term objectives. Hanna is also KONE’s Liaison Delegate in World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), represents the company in European Roundtable for Industrialists (Energy and Climate) and the Finnish Green Building Council. She spoke to Anoop K Menon on KONE’s end-to-end approach to sustainability

Hanna Uusitalo, environmental director, KONE

November 2013

The Green Building movement in the Middle East is relatively new and developing very quickly. The spotlight of energy efficiency tends to focus lighting and airconditioning but less so on elevators and escalators despite the fact they are the biggest energy consuming equipment in a building. How is KONE making elevators and escalators more energy efficient? We have a lot to do in terms of disseminating knowledge and understanding of the energy efficiency possibilities. We need to speak out more and inform builders about the various options on their table. KONE is over 100 years old, and we have innovation and

technology development integrated into our DNA. Tracing our environmental path, being based in Northern Europe where energy has always been expensive and supply of electricity hadn’t been good either, we adopted a cautious approach towards energy usage. While we started focussing on energy efficient solutions in the early 1980s, in 1996 we revolutionised the global elevator market through a major technology breakthrough – the Machine-Room-Less elevator. Prior to that, elevators used to have a machine room on the top floor. Now everybody in the elevator industry uses this technology but we started our ‘green’ journey on this exciting note.

Pi ta l l a rs of Sus

ility

Sustainability is also about social responsibility and the global community Operations

Creating a cleaner, healthier future for all the world begins at our own doorstep. At Diversey, we have made a public commitment to challenging, measurable reductions in our environmental impact. We know that the kind of innovative thinking that drives success is what will also drive continuous improvement in our operational profile, for profits, for people and for the environment.

OPERATIONS

Customers

We help our customers examine and reduce the environmental and operational impact of their businesses. With our expertise in cleaning and hygiene and our superior products, we help customers save water and energy and reduce labor costs while making their facilities safer, cleaner and more hygienic. Our innovations in product packaging, dispensing and dosing reduce waste, protect workers and improve the efficiency of product transport. We’ve reformulated products to remove chemicals that harm aquatic life or damage the environment and to provide solutions that contribute to better indoor air quality than conventional products.

CUSTOMERS

Partners

We collaborate with other industry and thought leaders around the globe to promote a sustainability mindset within our industry and to advocate for a cleaner, healthier future. Around the globe, we’ve established vital partnerships with government agencies, non governmental organizations and industry groups. We share our expertise and draw on the value that results when creative, passionate people unite their talents toward common goals.

PARTNERS

Workforce

It is through our employees’ talent, creativity and passion that Diversey is creating a cleaner, healthier future. We invest in our employees’ safety, well-being, training and career development. And we engage them actively in continuously improving our operational effectiveness and reducing our environmental impact. They are our company’s greatest asset.

WORKFORCE

Communities

We believe every place in the world that we do business should be better because we are there. Our emphasis on volunteerism and our employees’ generosity with their time and talent are helping Diversey create a cleaner, healthier future for the people whom we are privileged to serve as our customers’ customers. We encourage volunteerism through our Global Children’s Initiative to help children who live in poverty and through a host of regional and local efforts organized and implemented by employees who want to improve lives in their communities.

COMMUNITIES

Governance

At Diversey, we hold ourselves to the highest standard of ethical and legal behavior in everything we do - because we believe the right way is the only way to do business. We follow our detailed Code of Ethics and Business Conduct. The governing principle and theme of all our ethics training and compliance programs, "Ethics is Good Business," expresses our view of the fundamental role those high standards play in everything we do. We audit all our business practices regularly and rigorously, and engage a practice of continuous improvement.

GOVERNANCE

For more information please contact: Diversey Gulf FZE • P. O. Box: 61485, Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai, United Arab Emirates • Tel: +971 4 8819470 • Fax: +971 4 8819488 customerservice.uae@sealedair.com • www.sealedair.com

construction

different compared to the European platform which is different from North America. We look at the lifecycle from all the way from raw material to component manufacturing, installation and use phases to maintenance/ modernisation to end-of-life treatment. The studies we conducted according to ISO 14025 standard showed that the biggest environmental impact of our solutions is associated with energy consumption during the use phase, constituting 70-80% of the impact. This meant we had to set clear targets on energy efficiency. The second biggest impact is in terms of materials. We asked ourselves how do we develop durable, long lasting solutions and do it first-time-right so that we minimise the losses in terms of the materials consumption. We have a companywide goal of ‘no waste to landfill.’ In fact, we have achieved zero waste to landfill in our European manufacturing units. All waste is re-used or re-cycled or recovered as energy. In China, less than half a percent of material, by weight, is going to the landfill. In fact, we are working on the remaining half, so that we achieve 100% zero waste to landfill.

In 2008, we set a target to further reduce energy consumption of existing elevator and escalator technologies. So far we have achieved over 75% reduction in energy consumption compared to the 2008 product range, which puts us in same frame as the lighting industry. How did KONE address the energy efficiency challenge it set for itself in 2008? Elevators need to be smart; they need to be optimised for the traffic for the particular building’s use (residential, office, retail, hotel as the case may be). We have strong expertise in people flow – how they are moving, how to get them efficiently from one place to another. We combined highly energy-efficient motor technology with regenerative drives to capture the brake energy or any unbalance which is generated when the elevator

November 2013

is moving. The motor acts as a generator feeding electricity back into the building’s network. Many companies are adopting the life cycle or cradle to grave approach to assess and minimise the adverse impacts of their products from a sustainability standpoint. How have you incorporated sustainability into your product line? We have studied the environmental lifecycle impact of our products at different platform levels – for example, the Asian platform is

How do you ensure sustainability permeates your entire value chain? How do you work with your suppliers and customers? I think cooperation is very important in today’s world. We have to communicate with our partners and customers, talk about the future and looking at smart solutions together. The Green Building trend is a great thing but at KONE, we talk about green, smart and safety together. Our customers are making buildings more energy-efficient, which means they are sealing them. So we need to understand the requirements for good Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), which leads to understanding the materials we have in our products, the chemicals associated with them and then reducing systematically, all the materials that are potentially harmful for human health and environment. Recycled content is also a focus area for KONE. Today, our solutions are mainly made out of metals that are highly recyclable. Our new elevators typically have 25% recycled content, which is quite remarkable if you compare it to other industries. At the end of their lifetime, approximately 25 years, elevators and escalators are over 90% recyclable.

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cover story

Emission controller Ben Churchill is managing director of Emrill, the award-winning facilities management company that counts Masdar City among its clients. He tells BGreen how his company is helping hundreds of building owners reduce carbon emissions… and save millions of dollars. Interview by Gary Wright

Emrill MD Ben Churchill offers a green alternative to building owners - that promises to save them cash as well

November 2013

e’re at the Westin Hotel in Dubai and Ben Churchill takes to the stage and confesses to the assembled conference “I’m addicted to carbon”. With a wry smile the Englishman reveals more of his addiction: his love of plastic bags… and all things great about 21st century living. Then he admits to the audience that the birth of his son made him reflect on the way we devour the planet’s resources. But he’s not preaching and he is certainly no green militant: he is very clear that practicing sustainability, with its enormous cost savings, simply brings green benefits. He said: “This is not about saving the planet or polar bears – well it is – but people are driven by saving money.” And with that Churchill takes the assembly at the Sustainability Cooling Conference, held last month, through the huge strides with his leadership company Emrill is making in the facilities management, saving millions of dirhams for owners and slashing carbon emissions too. He explains that buildings are responsible for more greenhouse gas emissions than any other sector. I had met Churchill for the first time just two hours before his presentation to the conference.

i sincerely believe that everybody wants to do a good job.”

cover story

This is not about saving the planet or polar bears – well it is, but people are driven by savings.”

He is managing director of Emrill, which last year saw its revenues grow by 47% and this year saw it named FM green company of the year – as well as overall winner. “Sustainability at Emrill is wide ranging,” he explains. “It’s about the culture of the company and it starts with our staff. “Emrill has over 5,000 employees across the UAE where it looks after more than 1,000 buildings – with around 30,000 customers.” He said: “In our business many of the staff involved in face-to-face meetings with customers are the concierges and the security guards. Emrill seeks to set up an environment which allows them to do the very best that they can do. “We try to give them autonomy and the opportunity to grow and develop. We invest in our staff, we allow people to flourish. “Everybody wants to do a good job and staff perform better if it’s a nice place to work.” He refers to the international accreditation standards to which Emrill subscribes and its H&S policies like the UK. Global carbon “It’s not philanthropic – emissions: it’s good business and yields results.” Churchill is no aircraft textbook manager either and notes business is far more cars and transport complex than many management gurus would have you believe (“more like a living organism”). buildings He quotes Peter Drucker, often considered the inventor and father of modern management: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast”. Emrill Energy, launched two years ago, has pioneered energy saving in building management and there

11%

34%

are some impressive figures that I suggest should make securing new business straightforward. For example 34% of the world’s carbon emissions can be directly related to the buildings in which live and work, says Churchill, who adds “it’s probably closer to 40%”. With the addition intelligent system controls such as variable speed drives on pumps, movement sensors in rooms to control lighting and air-conditioning and to sense the

numbers of people in a room along with LED lighting, a building is well on the way to slashing energy bills between 35 and 40% per year. He then talks about BMS – the building management systems – that runs everything from lighting to airconditioning temperature and hot and cold water supplies. “Did you know that only 8% of BMS systems are commissioned correctly?” asks Churchill, “that is a bit like saying that 92% of the world’s buildings have their brains turned off. “If we as an industry can save 35% of the 34% that buildings contribute to global carbon

November 2013

cover story

emissions, then we can make a large difference.” Then he reveals the big benefit to clients: “Energy consumption of a building is around double the cost of facility management.” He lets you think about that and then explains that Emrill will assess the consumption, show where savings can be made – from the LED lighting to smart air-conditioning systems – then offset that against the cost of the FM. “A client might chose to pay for all the changes. Then move forward with a far more economic building, or we can arrange the finance for them – again paid for by the savings and we will tell them how long it will take – or any combination.” When Churchill presents this simple explanation I genuinely

November 2013

believe that this is a perfect business model but he assures me that not everyone believes it can be that simple and some still take more convincing. It becomes clear that Emrill’s strategy has no real pitfalls and is, as he says, “not about save the planet, but to save money”. The huge reduction in carbon emissions is simply a useful side effect. Dubai and Abu Dhabi divide Emrill’s business. Around one-third is in Abu Dhabi where Etihad is among its FM customers and, at the time of interview, Emrill further enforced its green credentials after landing the FM contract for Masdar City – the world’s biggest sustainable city project. Emrill’s PR chief initially asked BGreen not to reveal it had landed the contract but within an hour Churchill was on stage at the cooling conference revealing it to delegates as part of his presentation: Energy in FM, optimising building efficiency. Emrill’s specialist knowledge and experience with solar panels placed it in an extremely strong position when tendering for Masdar City’s contract. Churchill explains that Emrill set out at the beginning of last year to find a partner with whom it could work on its energy strategy, which would think holistically about the problem of emissions from buildings. It found Crowley Carbon, an Irish company with a broad spectrum energy knowledge and in November 2012 Emrill Energy was launched by explaining “Our industry is the biggest contributor

I am addicted to carbon – but there is a better way.” to climate change”. At the launch of the new wing to Emrill, Churchill said the that UAE ranked third in the world when it comes to energy consumption per capita per head in 2011, following Qatar and Trinidad & Tobago, and stated that it was time to be “slightly concerned” about the figure. At the time Crowley Carbon chairman Norman Crowley said: “The goal of this joint venture is to make Dubai buildings the most efficient in the world.” And that is what Emrill has aimed to achieve since. The interview is drawing to a close and Churchill is due on stage at the Westin for the presentation. As we leave the almost deserted restaurant he asks me whether I feel cold and I admit I do. “That should never happen in Dubai,” he says. “And yet you find it in many places. The air conditioning is set for a roomful of people. A simple sensor would solve it – and save energy costs.”

Advertorial | Delta

DELTA FAUCET COMPANY LAUNCHES REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS IN DUBAI

elta Faucet Company, one of the largest manufacturers of residential and commercial faucets, celebrated the opening of its new regional headquarters in the Middle East last month. The regional headquarters is strategically located

November 2013

at the heart of the JLT Free Zone in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The office was officially launched by Mr. Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, (DMCC), other dignitaries included Mrs. Raja Al

Gurg, Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group and Mr. John Simmons, Commercial Counselor at the Embassy of the United States, Abu Dhabi. The new multi-purpose operation will support the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continued

Advertorial | Delta

growth in the region, serving as the sales and marketing hub, providing training facilities for design and construction professionals and operating as a corporate showroom showcasing innovative products from the Delta and Brizo brands. Mr. Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of DMCC, commented at the opening: “Our infrastructure, products and services attracts international brands such as Delta Faucet Company and bears witness to our wide appeal for companies looking to setup their regional headquarters in the DMCC Free Zone.” He added, “Delta Faucet Company is already a market leader in the US and to see the company choose to open their regional headquarters at the DMCC Free Zone, as it prepares for further expansion, is testament to DMCC and Dubai’s strength as a global business hub. We welcome our new partners to the Free Zone, now home to over 7,300 start-ups and multi-nationals, where its employees will benefit from a world-class regulatory environment, physical and financial infrastructure and a thriving marketplace where people can trade with confidence”. A worldwide leader in faucets and related accessories, Delta Faucet

Company sells products in more than 53 countries, including nine markets in the Middle East. Within the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Jordan and Lebanon, the company’s faucets are sold through retail stores and wholesale showrooms. Commenting on the opening, Mr. Ross Jackson, General Manager, Delta Faucet Company, Middle East, said: “Delta Faucet Company’s international growth strategy is based around emerging markets, and we see enormous potential in the Middle East in particular. When it came to selecting a headquarters, Dubai was a natural choice due to its impressive infrastructure, large-scale construction projects and connectivity to the rest of the region.” To support its expansion efforts, Delta Faucet Company has appointed a Regional Sales Manager, Regional Business Development Manager and a Regional Marketing and Communications Manager. The company, which has been operating in the region for the past three years, has forged strong alliances with resellers and distributors. Mr. Jackson added, “With our newly established base here in the UAE, we want to be seen as the partner of choice to developers and designers who want to use water in a more practical way.“ Delta Faucet Company is committed to providing smarter ways for people to experience water and continues to develop new and innovative solutions that are more environmentally responsible while

also enhancing the end user’s experience. Showerheads with Delta® H2Okinetic® Technology use an internal system that sculpts the water into a unique wave pattern, creating the feeling of more water without using more water than a standard showerhead. Faucets with Delta Touch2O® Technology afford consumers the ability to precisely control the activation of water with just a touch exactly when and where it’s needed – even when hands are full or messy. Delta Faucet Company recently held a student competition to promote future sustainability of water resources in the region. The competition was organized in line with the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) and in partnership with the American University in Dubai (AUD) and Alabbar Energy & Sustainability Group (AESG). “The Sustainable Bathroom in the UAE Competition” coincided with the United Nations World Water Day, which took place on the 22nd of March, 2013, and the United Nations International Year of Water Cooperation. Interior design and architecture students at the American University in Dubai submitted original bathroom designs satisfying specific design criteria, including water conservation, energy efficiency, water quality, alignment with government regulations and durability of design.

November 2013

Advertorial | Delta

Delta Faucet Company introduces new collection of International Shower Products Global shower expansion brings new styles, functionality to hospitality and residential markets in the Middle East

elta Faucet Company is pleased to introduce a new selection of shower products designed to meet the needs of the international hospitality and residential markets. This new, modern assortment of shower heads, hand showers, wall bars and shower pipes was created to coordinate with existing Delta® product collections to offer customers more design options. “Expanding the Delta brand shower product offering demonstrates our commitment to continually bringing smart, versatile solutions to our international customers,” said Hans-Juergen Kalmbach, vice president, international for Delta Faucet Company. “Our new shower products align with the latest design trends while providing the high quality performance our customers expect from Delta products.” The new Delta product offerings include: • Tetra – This modern, squareshaped collection includes

November 2013

•

two oversized raincan shower heads, 450 and 220 mm in size, to give users a luxury shower experience. The shower heads are available in Chrome finish. Centra – The sleek, circular Centra collection includes two oversized raincan shower heads, 450 and 300 mm in size, one multi-function shower head and an assortment of five new hand showers available in Chrome finish. Wall Bars – The new wall selection of wall bars, which move water from the shower head to the bathtub, boast a modern architecture, come in two sizes, 600 and 900 mm, and are available in Chrome finish. Shower Pipes – Two new shower pipes, square and round, are available in a contemporary Chrome finish. Their 90-degree swivel function allows the user to move the tub spout closer to the wall to deliver stronger water pressure than a 90 degree spout, which divides the pressure between the tub and shower, for a more enjoyable experience.

The new Delta shower products is now available with all our partners within the region. For further information visit: worldwide.deltafaucet.com/ international/shower/shower or worldwide.deltafaucet.com/ international/where-to-buy/index.html

About Delta® Products There is a philosophy at the heart of every Delta® product: there is a better way to live with water. It goes beyond excellent design to incorporate smart thinking that anticipates people’s needs. From proprietary Touch2O® Technology that turns faucets on and off with just a touch to H2Okinetic® shower technology that sculpts water into a unique wave pattern, giving you the feeling of more water without using more water, Delta products incorporate thoughtful features that delight. Paired with beautiful and inspirational design, the Delta® brand is more than just a faucet. A 2013 WaterSense® partner of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Delta Faucet Company is a global organization that offers bath faucets, kitchen faucets, shower heads, shower systems, and related accessories, selling products in more than 53 countries. For more information, visit worldwide. deltafaucet.com

technology

Establishing cleaner coal New technology is transforming the way coal is used to generate clean energy, making it a possible solution to help meet the future energy needs in the MENA region. Lorraine Bangera reports

oal is one of the world’s most abundant fossil fuels, but its use for power generation produces an estimated 14 billion tonnes of poisonous carbon dioxide a year. Despite the pollution, coal is the most common fuel used for power generation around the world and the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts a 43% increase in its use from 2000 to 2020. The carbons and hydrocarbons in coal mean it is also used in the production of plastic, tar and fertilisers. In recent years coal has been recognised as a vital part of the world’s future energy mix and attention has focussed on ways to use the fuel more safely. Zero emissions coal technology is seen as a core element for future energy supply in a carbon-constrained world. The greatest challenge for clean coal technology is bringing the cost down sufficiently to compete with nuclear power which releases zero emissions. The world’s first clean coal power plant opened in 2009 in Germany by Swedish utility Vattenfall and it has become a model for other power plants under construction. It involves burning coal to produce heat to generate energy and then storing the smoke and and then using a method called ‘carbon capture and storage’ (CCS), which captures carbon dioxide storing it

underground in natural geological formation or in man-made space, for example where oil has been extracted. The processes separates CO2 from combustion exhaust gases and CO2 is absorbed by a liquid solvent and then released when it is heated to form a high purity CO2 stream. Desulphurisation of the gas stream is required to prevent impurities in the flue gas from contaminating the CO 2 capture solvent. Clean coal making its way in the UAE In July, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) issued a request for tenders to set up a new clean coal power plant, as part of its efforts to diversify Dubai’s energy mix. This move aims to reduce the use of natural gas and create new sources to generate electricity. The plant is said to produce 12% of Dubai’s total power output, according to the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, formulated by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy.

23%

39%

of electricity generated comes from coal

of primary energy needs are met by coal

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, stated that this will be the first plant of its kind in the region to use clean coal technology and that the project will contribute significantly to alternate sources of energy. He also explained that the plant’s total production capacity will reach 1,200MW, which will be carried out in two 600MW phases, with the first phase to be completed by 2020, and the second by 2021. The Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 intends to expand Dubai’s energy sources, with 12% energy derived from clean coal, 12% from nuclear energy, 5% from solar power, and 71% from natural gas. DEWA said it had selected McKinsey & Company, engineering specialist Black & Veatch, and law firm Allen & Overy as consultants to produce a technical and economic study for the proposed clean coal power plant. Consultants would conduct a preliminary analysis on the type of technology, the type of coal and sourcing strategy which best suit DEWA’s requirements in the first phase of introducing clean coal technology in the UAE. While the second phase would involve setting technical and business specifications to implement and establish a coal-based power plant in Dubai.

CCS - the cost CCS applied to a modern conventional power plant could reduce CO2 emissions to the atmosphere by approximately 80–90% compared to a plant without CCS. Capturing and compressing CO2 can increase the fuel needs of a coal-fired CCS plant by up to 40% and increases the building cost of the plants by up to 90%. Applying the technology to existing plants would be more expensive especially if they are far from a site where the CO2 is to be stored. Storage of the CO2 is either in deep geological formations, or in the form of mineral carbonates. Deep ocean storage is no longer considered feasible because it greatly increases the threat of acidification of the sea. Geological formations are currently considered the most promising sequestration sites – the USA . has enough storage capacity for more than 900 years worth of CO2 at current production rates.

November 2013

Leisure The newly awarded sites in Abu Dhabi include: •

Al Bateen Marina

•

The Club beach

•

Saadiyat Island beach

•

Lagoon beach

•

Phase 2 beach

•

Hilton beach

•

Le Meridien

•

Desert Islands on Sir Bani Yas

The newly awarded sites in Dubai include: Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Eco-friendly coasts make a mark Set up by Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to protect and develop beaches and marinas around the world, the Blue Flag programme is a widely accredited initiative that is increasingly spreading in the UAE since 2009. Lorraine Bangera reports

E Saadiyat Island Beach

November 2013

mirates Wildlife Society in association with WWF (EWSWWF), the programme’s national coordinator, awarded to 12 new beaches and marinas the Blue Flag in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Moaz Sawaf, Blue Flag project manager, said: “With UAE as an example of increasing numbers of beaches and marinas being awarded, we encourage even more beach and marina operators in the country to apply for and work towards the Blue Flag.” Recognised world-wide as a symbol for coastal excellence, the UAE can now boast of a total of 24 Blue Flags across the emirates. To be awarded a Blue Flag, there are 32 criteria for beaches and 24 criteria for marinas to be met covering four major areas including: environmental education and information, water

quality, environmental management, safety and services. Moaz Sawaf, Blue Flag project manager said: “Blue Flags are awarded every season. They are reassessed and reviewed (annually) to ensure standards are adhered to and maintained. The first 12 Blue Flag beaches have consistently met the standards by fulfilling the strict criteria. One of the major benefits of attaining a Blue Flag accreditation includes attracting tourists. Sawaf said: “International tourists are more likely to be visiting a Blue Flag hotel because they can be confident that the beach is clean and environmentally-friendly.” While residents visiting the coast also benefit by learning more about coastal sustainability. “One of the Blue Flag criteria is for the Blue Flag beach to hold five environmental education activities each year that help in raising the awareness level among the public community,” he added. The UAE is one of the only countries in the region that has an established Blue Flag programme. According to Sawaf, even though there is an interest in GCC countries, so far there have been no Blue Flag National operators in those countries to run and monitor the programme.

•

Jumeirah Beach Hotel Marina

•

Jumeirah Beach Hotel beach

•

Le Royal Meridien beach

•

Sheraton Dubai Jumeirah Beach Resort beach

Blue Flag has been awarded to over 4,000 beaches and marinas across 46 different countries around the world

Saadiyat Island Beach “Blue Flag is a testament to the stringent environmental protection measures TDIC has put in place since the early master planning of Saadiyat Island, which include beach development guidelines, a beach management plan and operational environmental management plans for the individual properties located along the beach.” Dr Nathalie Staelens, Head of Environmental Services at Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC)

Bateen Marina “Sustainability and ecological awareness are key elements of our business philosophy and guide our actions, and we are very pleased to have our efforts acknowledged and validated by Blue Flag.” Belevari Marina, Bateen Marina

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.

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Leisure UAE makes

8 billion kilograms of waste each year

60% is

recyclable

Sharjah tackles waste

The people of Sharjah have their waste collected and recycled by Bee’ah. Chief commercial officer, Najib Faris, explains how the company is set to be the biggest in the Middle East. Lorraine Bangera reports

he population of the UAE is grows by 3.1% every year, and waste grows with that,” Najib Faris, chief commercial officer of Bee’ah, told the Future Cities Conference in Dubai last month. Established in 2009, Bee’ah aims to achieve zero waste going to landfill by 2015. It has won best waste management company in the FM Awards in Dubai for three years in a row. Bee’ah is unique among waste management companies because it carries out all waste management tasks from collecting waste, transporting, and cleaning it, through to recycling it. Its practices include the material recovery facility, which is the largest in the Middle East and third largest in the world, its tyre recycling facility, which is the only

November 2013

facility utilising a cryogenic system, a construction and demolition waste recycling facility (CDW) as well as its landfill, which it claims is the most efficiently managed landfill in the region.

Bee’ah street cleaner in action

Recycling Last month, Bee’ah launched its monthlong residential engagement campaign

‘Recycle for a Greener Sharjah’. And people responded well, says the company: following its 2012 awareness campaign residential recycling levels rose from 40 to over 52%. This year, Bee’ah placed 25 new Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) across the city for plastic bottles, aluminium cans and used light bulbs at various outlets including the Sharjah Cooperative Society. The machines are linked to ‘My Bee’ah Loyalty Programme’, which gives residents points in exchange for recycled material. Points collected can be redeemed for gifts, special offers and discounts. Faris said: “My Bee’ah incentivises people to be sustainable. It is like an environmental loyalty programme. All you have to do is drop recyclable material in the machines, swipe your card, and earn your points.” Educating the young Bee’ah also has a programme to educate Sharjah’s youngsters. Faris said: “The Bee’ah School of Environment is an online and offline awareness programme that targets students in Sharjah. Students from kindergarten to grade 12 receive curriculum-based education every week for one hour. Some of us can get a degree in that time. “As the programme is available online, students can access material and learn about the environment conveniently. It also educates teachers and provides curriculum material to help teach their classes.” The programme is supported by the Ministry of Education and the Sharjah Education Zone. It has already reached and educated 164,000 students in over 200 schools across Sharjah.

Advertorial | Dubai Chamber

stimates say that buildings consume 76 per cent of electricity generated and that they create 48 per cent of our greenhouse gases. Building green is no longer a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a fundamental design element that makes the building sustainable. Green buildings reduce costs, enhance efficiency and productivity, reduce pollution and improve the world we live in. Green building is often perceived as an expensive venture, as its longterm benefits are not immediately recognised. Ron Jones, one of the fathers of the green building

November 2013

Advertorial | Dubai Chamber

movement, said: “Affordability goes beyond first cost. Considerations for greater durability, lower operating costs and superior performance must be included when it comes to calculating affordability.” Investing two per cent of a building’s cost in green design equals a 20 per cent lifecycle savings, and the UAE government’s goal is to reduce its carbon footprint by 20% by 2015, according to a recent report by Jones Lang LaSalle. The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry was the first LEED certified existing building in the Arab World in 2009 and the

fourth outside of North America. In the last 15 years, the Dubai Chamber’s green building initiatives have resulted in energy savings of over 57 per cent with a cost savings of almost AED15 million. The organisation has managed to reduce its consumption of energy and water per building occupant by 59% and 83% respectively. In fact, according to Energy Star, a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency voluntary programme that helps businesses and individuals save money and protect the climate through superior energy efficiency, the Dubai Chamber head office building is

more energy efficient than 91 per cent of all buildings in the USA. The Dubai Chamber encourages all businesses by example to enhance their energy efficiency and develop renewable energy options wherever possible. The Dubai Chamber, a non-profit organisation and representative of the private sector helps drive awareness of the advantages of green building by regularly organising building tours for students, professionals and delegations and never missing an opportunity to speak at green building events locally and globally.

Dubai Chamber’s Green Building Legacy

Dubai Chamber’s green building achievements represent the standards the city seeks

Dubai has played a leadership role in this region when it comes to green building and sustainability. In 2007, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE VicePresident and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, launched the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015 with a directive that all buildings constructed in the city should meet green building standards. This was with the vision to keep Dubai a healthy city that follows the highest standards of sustainable development. In this respect, the Dubai Chamber’s green building achievements represent this vision and continue to be celebrated across the region as exemplary. As Dubai Chamber achieved LEED accreditation for pre-building renovation, it has made sure to use the LEED framework to enhance its working conditions. For example, workstations are ergonomically designed; there are easy facilities for waste separation, and recycling is encouraged as staff have no dustbins at their desks. Printing and photocopying have been segregated to reduce indoor air pollution that can cause sickness, and employees

have the ability to adjust lighting and temperature conditions for their comfort if required. Other improvements during the building renovation include increasing the use of colour to enhance mood, and installing a CO2 monitoring system to ensure adequate oxygen. All these initiatives significantly improved satisfaction in the working environment as staff wholeheartedly responded to the green initiatives and cooperated to play a part in saving resources. In the process, staff satisfaction with the organisation’s green workplace has risen from 59 to 89 per cent. Today, Dubai Chamber is headquartered in one of the Middle East’s greenest buildings but when its head office opened in 1995 the building was much like any other modern structure in our region - a spectacular glass façade high rise building which consumed vast amounts of water and energy while producing significant waste. Then in 1997 Dubai Chamber started working on making simple changes to improve the sustainability performance of its building.

In the following 15 years the Chamber made giant strides in the area of reducing water and energy consumption. The Chamber’s LEED green building framework also concentrates on sustainable transport, indoor air quality and purchasing. For example, taps have aerated water flow fixtures and toilets are flushed with treated sewage effluent instead of drinking water using 4.5 litre flush valves, saving thousands of litres of water an hour. Efficient lighting with daylight and motion sensors as well as open day-lit workspaces reduce lighting loads, while a centralised waste area has lifted recycling rates to over 80 per cent. Outside the building, the water fountain, which runs on condensate captured from the air conditioning system is used to cool the server room so the chillers can be switched off after hours. To continuously monitor and improve on such efforts, Dubai Chamber maintains an environmental management system in-line with ISO14001 and plans many more innovative green building initiatives in the near future.

November 2013

BUSINESS

November 2013

BUSINESS

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November 2013

BUSINESS

STAY GREEN An increasingly environmentconscious consumer base is helping to persuade hotel brands to adopt sustainable practices. Here is a whistle stop guide for the greenest activities in the region, by Melanie Mingas

Kempinski Hotel Ajman KREEN solar panel project

nveiled in November 2012, the solar panel system at Ajman’s first five star hotel produces enough power to heat 30,000 litres of water every day and will reduce up to 140 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. Pioneered through a JV called KREEN, the project is the result of a partnership between Kempinski Hotels, Stadtwerke Mainz (public corporation, AAA rating) based in Germany, and Marshfield Energy based in Switzerland. Mr. Ulrich Eckhardt, Kempinski regional president, MEAI, said, “Kempinski was the first company to bring a luxury hotel to Ajman. Now we are the first company to bring sustainability to the forefront of our hotel operations here in Ajman through this new solar project, the recycling of wastewater for landscaping, as well as several other sustainability initiatives underway in the hotel.”

TDIC Saadiyat Dune Protection Zone

ore than 60 volunteers from The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort helped to transplant 2000 plants to enhance the vegetated dune areas on the seaward side of the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club pathway, restoring the dunes and helping to cultivate local wildlife. Forming a Dune Protection Zone, the newly vegetated areas will enhance the beach, and in turn further increase the nesting habitat for the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtles, which return here to nest every year between April and July. This activity forms part of TDIC’s ongoing commitment towards sustainability and environmental best practice. St Regis Saadiyat GM, John Pelling, said: “Last year we had one turtle nesting site immediately in front of the hotel. It was very exciting to learn that about 100 new hatchlings made their way towards the sea. “We take some key precautions to ensure the stretch in front of our resort is conducive to these endangered species during the nesting season as we believe the islands beauty lies in the fact that it is natural, and we are keen to play our part in maintaining its pristine beach.”

November 2013

BUSINESS

Bin Majid Beach Hotel Go Green Hyatt Hotels Choose Wisely The overall number of commercial fish in the country has declined by 80% in the last 30 years. In the UAE, 60% of the total catch is made up of species that are fished beyond sustainable levels, and eight of the most valuable commercial fish are being overexploited including Shaari, Farsh and Kanaad. Hamour, otherwise known as Orange-spotted Grouper, is fished at over seven times the sustainable level and is the most overfished species in the country. Hyatt Hotels’ five star properties across Dubai and Abu Dhabi collaborate with the EWS-WWF to pioneer adoption of the Choose Wisely campaign, integrated throughout F&B outlets in the UAE to ensure that fish is sustainably sourced. The hotels’ restaurants will create special sustainable fish dishes using sustainablelisted local fish as defined by the Choose Wisely consumer guide.

“The programme is focussed on sourcing and providing F&B options that are good for Hyatt guests and associates, good for the planet, and good for local communities,” said John Beveridge, Area Director for Hyatt Hotels & Resorts in Dubai and GM of Grand Hyatt Dubai. “The Choose Wisely initiative fits well within our food philosophy and highlights our commitment to healthy people, a healthy planet and healthy communities.” The overall number of commercial fish in the country has declined by 80% in the last 30 years. In the UAE, 60% of the total catch is made up of species that are fished beyond sustainable levels, and eight of the most valuable commercial fish are being overexploited including Shaari, Farsh and Kanaad. Hamour, otherwise known as Orange-spotted Grouper, is fished at over seven times the sustainable level and is the most overfished species in the country.

The Westin Food to Fertiliser

November 2013

Guests at the Bin Majid’s four UAE properties who do not require daily replacement of in-room amenities and linens are presented with a vouchers to use against purchases in the hotel. The group hopes to spur neighbouring properties to initiate similar campaigns. Bin Majid Group GM Dr Ali Kasapbashi, said: “We are pleased to announce that we have initiated a Go Green concept in support of a sustainable hospitality industry. Hotels can play a major role in changing the culture of waste in the UAE so we are doing our best to help protect the environment and sustain its natural resources for the present and future generations.” The “Go Green” campaign is aimed at creating awareness on the importance of protecting the environment and sustaining its natural resources for the present and future generations.

Within 10 hours, Westin Abu Dhabi can transform the 225kg of food waste produced daily into 93% organic fertiliser, in the form of a dry, high grade product that is approximately one third of the waste’s original weight. Using the waste from six restaurants and the staff cafeteria,this fertiliser is then used across the resort to feed bedding plants, grass areas, trees, herbs and vegetable gardens, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation of waste materials off site. The Korean-built machine facilitating this process

does not use any chemicals or degrading agents during the cycle, only heat. It is currently the only fertiliser machine of this scale and quality in operation in Abu Dhabi, and the only machine in any Starwood EAME property. By 2020, Starwood Hotels & Resorts aims to reduce energy consumption by 30% and water consumption by 20% across more than 1,100 hotels worldwide. There are plans to roll this fertiliser from waste food project out to the six Starwood properties in Abu Dhabi turning this into an area initiative.

BUSINESS

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Globally Green As part of its commitment to sustainable development, Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts release its first public sustainability report Q4 2012, revealing that since 2009 the group has achieved: 11 % reduction in water consumption per guest night; 13 % reduction in CO 2 per guest night; and 13 % reduction in energy consumption per guest night. On a monthly and annual basis, Swissôtel reports the performance of more than 100 environmental KPIs, which are consolidated and analysed by the corporate office. Sustainability teams at all hotels ensure the corporate strategy is implemented, with consideration given to local regulations, cultures and practices. “For us, being sustainable isn’t about the things you say, but the things you do”, says Meinhard Huck (pictured below), president Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. “It is our goal to be clear and honest in the communication of our objectives, goals and performance and we welcome dialogue with all our partners, guests and team members. With the release of this sustainability report we have achieved another important milestone.”

November 2013

L-R; Liisa Thomas, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility; Peter Henley, President & CEO; Bryan Hugill, Cofounder & Hacknologist from Raitong Organics Farm; and resident Beekeeper at Oriental Residence Bangkok

Onyx Hotels Plan Bee Bee populations globally are in a worrying state of decline, but in Bangkok, Onyx Hotels has launched Plan Bee, to save the Asian honeybee (Apis cerana) from extinction. Honeybees are key pollinators in the environment today. It is estimated that one-third of all the food plants we eat depend specifically on bees for pollination. In spite of the important role bees play in the global food chain and ecosystem, honeybees, as with many pollinators around the world, have come under threat due to a number of factors,

including the use of pesticides and planting of genetically-engineered crops, loss of habitat and biodiversity, increases in various pests and diseases due to changing weather conditions, pollution and poor husbandry techniques. The pledge will make Oriental Residence Bangkok the first serviced residence or hotel with an urban beekeeping initiative in Bangkok. Onyx hope to introduce urban beekeeping to Thailand and beyond, partnering with Raitong Organics Farm to ensure the successful delivery

Ritz-Carlton People and Planet While many hotel chains call their sustainable initiatives CSR, RitzCarlton has made a pledge to both nonbusiness commitments, by using the money saved by the implementation of sustainable initiatives, to fund CSR work in local communities. The work is pioneered by former HR director, Sue Stephenson (pictured right) who relocated from the UK to US work for Ritz-Carlton in 1991. In 2006, Stephenson assumed the leadership of The Ritz-Carlton social responsibility programme, Community Footprints®. Reporting to the president and COO, Hervé Humler, she is charged with expanding the company’s global efforts through a series of multi-faceted initiatives focussed on child wellbeing, hunger and poverty relief, and environmental responsibility.

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BUSINESS

DEWA chooses JAFZA to showcase projects The CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has offered a review of its 2013 sustainability initiatives in its quest to become a “sustainable world-class utility”

November 2013

EWA has set itself clear power targets for the next two decades in accordance with the government demands. “We are working to secure Dubai’s power requirements by 2030 by using four sources: Gas, 71%, clean coal and nuclear energy another 24% and solar energy, which is 5%,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer.

achieving 98 points on a scale of 110 according the US Green Building Council LEED.” He explains that the building saves 66% of energy consumption by using solar power production station with a capacity of 660 Kw, and it reduces water consumption by 48%. It was built on a 340,000 square feet (31,587 m2) plot at a total cost of AED75 million.

He said: “This will contribute to developing the technology used in generating electricity by solar energy with a planned capacity of 13 megawatt by the use of photovoltaics, then connecting it to the main DEWA grid in the second phase. The total production capacity for this project is expected to reach 1,000 MW, with a total cost of AED12 billion.”

Sustainable building “At the beginning of this year, we inaugurated DEWA’s sustainable building which is considered as the first UAE sustainable government building and the first government building in the world to obtain the platinum rating of green buildings,

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park Solar energy has seen huge strides this year said Al Tayer with the first phase of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park being commissioned in October (see story om page 8).

Clean coal technology Many people were surprised when the UAE revealed it was seeking to build coal-fired power station. But this will be a state-of-the-art facility said Al Tayer. “In a leading and pioneering step to use a mix of the new sources to

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BUSINESS

drinking water in naturally-occurring underground spaces.”

generate power, we have invited for a consultancy services tender to establish Hassyan Independent Station to generate power by using clean coal technologies. “Production capacity of the first phase of the project will be around 1,200 Megawatt, commissioned by 2020 with a production capacity of 600MW. The second phase will be completed by the summer of 2021, with the same capacity. M Station Water production is another focus for DEWA and Al Tayer said the organisation would be spending billions to increase capacity while almost doubling thermal efficiency. He said: “We are also working on increasing the production capacity of the water and electricity generation plant (M Station), which already has a current capacity of 140 million IGPD (imperial gallons per day) of desalinated water on a daily basis, and 2,060 MW at the cost of around AED1.2 billion in order to increase the production capacity of the station by 400MW, while enhancing the thermal efficiency to 90%.” DEWA is also looking at new ways to store drinking water for the emirate, including using natural underground caves.

Rooftop of DEWA’s sustainable building in Al Quoz

Top right: HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer Below: HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum releases the State Energy Report 2014

IN a leading and pioneering step to use a mix of the new sources to generate power, we have invited for a consultancy services tender to establish Hassyan Independent Station to generate power by using clean coal technologies.”

“The first phase of DEWA’s hydrogeology report is in progress, where an international consultancy firm was hired to determine existing ground water aquifers through an integrated scientific study that examines the possibility of storing

Generation costs. Al Tayer said DEWA was also making huge strides in efficiency of its existing operations in both power generation and water production claiming it is 26% more efficient than it was just six years ago. Production capacity is up by 450MW without using any extra fuel or expanding into a new production plant and costs are down by AED1.4 billion, as a result of enhancing mutual cooperation with Dubai Aluminium (Dubal). “We have also achieved a reduction in cost in the period 2010 – 2012 by AED131 million,” said Al Tayer. Demand reduction, including customer education and inspections, saved DEWA another AED411 million. It saved another AED6.6 million by reducing its own consumption including turning off lights outside working hours, increasing AC temperature to 24°C and replacing light bulbs with ecofriendly LED lights. Smart government In line with the initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ‘Smart Government’ aiming to provide government services on mobile phones and smart phones, DEWA has embraced the culture as it transforms from e-Government to Smart Government, by adopting the latest technologies. Al Tayer said: “DEWA has been providing its e-services through its website and smart phones applications since 2010 to make it easy for its customers to reach the smart services.” Infrastructure Looking to the future Al Tayer said DEWA is very focussed on smart cities: ”We are also working on improving infrastructure of smart grids and communication that will form the first and basic pillar in building smart cities, on which services of electricity, water, communication and other services are based. I can say that we have made great strides; however we still have a lot of opportunities to explore.”

November 2013

Personality

Princeof the ice Helicopter, skis, and dog sled, Prince Albert II of Monaco has tried them all to reach both the North and South Poles to raise awareness about climate change

on of Prince Rainier III and Hollywood legend Grace Kelly, Prince Albert II was born on March 14, 1958, and belongs to the royal family of Monaco. Upon assuming the throne in 2005, Prince Albert II began his sustainable works by signing the Kyoto Protocol. A year later, he visited the North Pole by dog sled travelling 120 kilometres from the Russian ice camp, Barneo. The trip helped bring climate change and the dangers of industrial pollution into the limelight. Through this journey, he also paid a tribute to his great-great grandfather, Prince Albert I of Monaco, an

Prince Albert II

November 2013

oceanography who had four successful exploration campaigns in the Arctic. Following his trip, the Prince set up the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation dedicated to protecting the environment. The foundation focuses on climate change, water and biodiversity by implementing sustainable and efficient management of natural resource, and supporting innovative and ethical solutions. In 2009, Prince Albert II undertook a three-week project in the Antarctic, where he visited

numerous scientific stations. The trip was turned into a documentary, Antarctique 2009, Terre en Alerte, which means ‘Antarctic 2009, Earth on Alert’ after joining explorer Mike Horn. UNEP named him “Champion of the Earth” for his work on climate change, biodiversity, water as well as environmental journalism. Prince Albert II is dedicated to carrying out an exemplary policy in his country in terms of the

environment, by developing of public transport, ecological vehicles, renewable energies and green buildings. Some of his other notable works include supporting Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai’s campaign to plant a billion trees, hosting a global conference on the health of the world’s oceans, and establishing a partnership with the World Wildlife Foundation to protect the bluefin tuna from ecological extinction.

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DIARY Dates

Save the date BGreen’s guide to events and conferences taking place in the coming months

Waste to Wealth Conference 11 - 13 November, KL Hilton, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia CIDB Malaysia collaborates with marcus evans to present the Waste to Wealth Conference to create a platform for waste management specialists and professionals to network and share ideas and best practices. This conference will focus on monetising waste through revolutionary wasteto-wealth frameworks that seeks to achieve the goal of zero waste. Saudi Green Building Forum November 17-20, Four Seasons Hotel - Riyadh, Saudi Arabia The forum will highlight optimising energy efficiency and reducing operational and lifecycle costs in green buildings and sustainable infrastructure through critical design, build and sustainable management strategies. It will also showcase an in depth technical analysis on sustainable infrastructure and how green buildings support environmental and economic benefit.

The Big 5 November 25-28, Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE The Big 5 2012 was the largest construction exhibition held in the Middle East, featuring numerous seminars, conferences and training sessions. To increase product categorisation, this year the show displays six distinct product zones, as well as Middle East Concrete, PMV Live and FM EXPO. BGreen Awards 2013 28 November, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai The BGreen Awards 2013 recognises the sustainability achievements of companies across the region in association with the leading business magazine dedicated to the issue. Every business, from the largest multi-national to the smallest start-ups, has the opportunity to showcase their sustainability work within a number of categories.

8th Annual Abu Dhabi Conference Dec 8-10, Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, UAE This annual gathering of public and private sector leaders enables discussion and updates on upcoming projects and investment opportunities in Abu Dhabi’s diverse economy. Delegates get exclusive access to some of Abu Dhabi’s most powerful players and discover how to get involved in some of the world’s most significant projects. 2nd Annual EGBC Congress December 11-12, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort-Dubai, UAE The Emirates Green Building Council will host a congress under the theme “Building a Green Future”. It is an initiative dedicated to foster industry dialogue and engage multiple stakeholders to further influence sustainable practices in the built environment. The latest insights and innovations will be shared from local and international industry experts and the field’s foremost thinkers.

November 2013

sustainable past

Ice capture Refrigeration is one of man’s greatest inventions though damage to the ozone layer from chlorofluorocarbons used to make fridges until two decades ago is well documented. Before electric fridges though mankind found all sorts of ways to keep their food fresh. In Persia people utilised a sustainable, natural building

November 2013

akhchãl which means ice pit, is an ancient type of evaporative cooler. Sixty feet tall and shaped like a dome, the structure was often used to store ice, and sometimes food as well and ice pits built in Persia centuries ago can still be found standing. Many of these structures were built one and a half kilometres away from the centre of Kerman, present-day Iran’s largest city. Persian engineers had mastered the technique and were well adjusted to their natural environment. Used up until about 50 years ago, these ancient refrigerators were typically constructed with earth bricks. The concept was to store ice, accumulated during winter, in a specially designed space insulated with thick heat-resistant construction material. The impenetrable walls were composed of sand, clay, egg whites, lime, goat hair, and ash, which made it resist heat transfer. As it was built in desert areas where it is almost impossible to get ice, the Yakhchãl ice houses were built in front of channels. During winter these channels flooded with water, derived from the qanat irrigation system, through runoffs from mountains areas. Overnight as the water would freeze in the channel, the keepers of the ice houses would break up blocks of ice and relocate them to the ice houses. Continuing this process every winter night to ensure a sufficient supply of ice for the summer. Out of Kerman’s 129 ice houses, there are 104 still standing today, though most are in a state of neglect and some have become rubbish dumps.

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