BGreen September 2014

Inside

Hospitality trendsetters smart logistics Women on the frontline environmental courses

THE BUSINESS OF SUSTAINABILITY Issue 49 | sePTeMBeR 2014

Fuelling Change Yousif Saeed Lootah advocates the use of cleaner fuels in the region

EDITOR’S PAGE

GROUP GROUP CHAIRMAN AND FOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA GROUP CEO NADEEM HOOD GROUP COO GINA O’HARA

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5471 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5713 EDITORIAL EDITOR ASHISH SARAF ashish.saraf@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5495 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR ANOOP K MENON anoop.menon@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5714 ASSISTANT EDITOR SHRUTHI SARAF shruthi.saraf@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5715 ADVERTISING COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR JUDE SLANN jude.slann@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 433 2857 SENIOR SALES MANAGER JUNAID RAFIqUE junaid.rafique@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5716 MARKETING MARKETING MANAGER LISA JUSTICE lisa.justice@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5498 MARKETING ASSISTANT BARBARA PANKASZ barbara.pankasz@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5499 DESIGN ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON DESIGNER LUCY MCMURRAY CIRCULATION AND PRODUCTION CIRCULATION AND DISTRIBUTION MANAGER ROCHELLE ALMEIDA rochelle.almeida@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 368 1670 DATABASE AND CIRCULATION MANAGER RAJEESH M rajeesh.nair@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9147 PRODUCTION MANAGER JAMES P THARIAN james.tharian@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9146 PRODUCTION MANAGER VIPIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5713 DIGITAL DIGITAL SERVICE MANAGER TRISTAN TROY MAAGMA

Alternative fuel With the growing demand for energy across the globe, the biofuels market is witnessing large amounts of investments to ensure a permanent source of clean energy. There has been a huge increase in the demand for biofuels since they are naturally derived and can replace non-renewable resources.

In the US, for instance, the size of the venture capital investment in clean technologies, of which biofuels is a large component – was US$6bn or 23.1% of all venture capital investment during 2001-2012. According to a report by Clean Edge, the global biofuels market alone is projected to grow to $139bn by 2021.

The Middle East is slowly but surely catching up.

Earlier this year, aircraft maker Boeing partnered with the UAE-based renewable energy company Masdar to develop sustainable aviation biofuels, finding that desert plants fed by seawater will produce biofuels more efficiently than other well-known feedstocks.

In the biofuels-from-algae market, the UAE is uniquely positioned to make a strong impact. The native algae have evolved to grow under a wide range of temperatures and salinities and the production of biofuels using these strains of algae are not expected to compete with the fresh water supply or with food production in the UAE. In addition, the development of the algae-for-biofuels industry can be used to supplement the growth of the aquaculture industry in the UAE. Dubai-based Lootah Biofuels is a pioneer in biofuels in the GCC. The company has partnered with the Singapore-based AlgaOil to jointly undertake research that looks into the mass scale production of algae.

Theoretically, biodiesel produced from algae appears to be the only feasible solution today for replacing petro-diesel completely. No other feedstock has the oil yield high enough for it to be in a position to produce such large volumes of oil.

In practice however, biodiesel has not yet been produced on a wide scale from algae, though large scale algae cultivation and biodiesel production appear likely in the near future.

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CONTENTS September 2014

Contents 08 Update Regional news Saudi Arabia, China sign nuclear deal Empower starts first green district cooling facility 13 Update woRld news Ford commits $100,000 for conservation in ME US to build world’s largest renewable diesel plant 16 Update offbeat news Turn toxic trash into solar panels Boeing to make jet fuel from tobacco 52 constRUction saa’fat: dUbai’s gReen vision Dubai Municipality’s Eng Abdullah Rafia writes exclusively for BGreen

20 coveR stoRY fUeling change Yousif Saeed Lootah is committed to the cause of cleaner fuels

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CONTENTS September 2014

Contents

25 eco leisURe hospitalitY tRendsetteRs

38 sUpplY chain cRitical competence

World over, large number of travellers are turning eco-conscious and the hotel industry has risen to serve this demand, leaving no stone unturned

The need for a transparent and traceable supply chain in the Middle East is now a non-negotiable imperative

61 enviRonment on the fRontline BGreen profiles nine women who are set to play a vital role in the UN Climate Change Conference 66 colUmn gReen bUildings Concrete jungles of the past are set to transform into green buildings of the future 74 gReen peRsonalitY gisele bĂźndchen The eco-friendly supermodel is no stranger to spreading her love for the earth and its environment

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44 gReen bUsiness bigfoot on tRial

48 gReen edUcation ReadYing eco-waRRioRs

76 commentaRY naji el haddad

Developments like Al Hamra Village have asserted the UAE’s position as one of the top 10 countries for LEED outside of the US

Courses addressing environmental change and social adaptability are slowly appearing in university curriculum around the region

Across the region, the evidence is that a post-carbon era points to growth, jobs and prosperity

www.hempeldecorative.me

EXPERT PANEL

Expert Panel His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Ali Al Nuaimi Environmental Advisor Ajman Government Chief Executive Officer Al Ihsan Charity Centre Chairman International Steering Committee for the Global Initiative Towards a Sustainable Iraq (GITSI), based in the UAE

The BGreen Expert Panel provides a platform for those who are active in encouraging sustainable practices across a wide sector of industries. real experts who can share their views, analyses, and research with our informed readers.

Our panellists meet every few months to discuss news, strategies and solutions on focussed topics related to sustainability.

Our panellists write for the magazine - opinions and analyses - as well as on our website in a portfolio format documenting their contributions.

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

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

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

Dr Michael Kr채mer Senior Associate Taylor Wessing (Middle East) LLP Legal Counsel Middle East Solar Industry Association

Dr Mutasim Nour Director of MSc Energy Heriot Watt University School of Engineering and Physical Sciences

Ivano Iannelli Chief Executive Officer Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence

William Whistler Managing Director Green Building Solutions International

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

Tanzeed Alam Policy Director EWS-WWF

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

Stephen Smith Sustainability Manager Brookfield Multiplex

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

If you would like to nominate an expert to join our panel, please email: ashish.saraf@cpimediagroup.com Supported by:

Official Sustainable Contractor:

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UPDATE Regional news

Saudi Arabia, China sign nuclear deal The Kingdom will spend up to $8bn on nuclear power plants by 2032 Saudi Arabia and China have signed an agreement to boost cooperation in the production and peaceful use of nuclear and renewable energy, as the Kingdom seeks to reduce its dependence on hydrocarbons and bolster ties with the world’s second biggest economy.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed in the Chinese capital Beijing between King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (K.A.CARE) and the Chinese National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), the country’s state-owned nuclear energy company.

K.A.CARE is the Kingdom’s renewable energy research hub, mandated to seek alternatives to non-renewable sources of energy such as hydrocarbons.

Saudi Arabia may spend up to US$80bn on nuclear power plants and $100bn on solar power projects between now and 2032, making the country’s energy sector one of the biggest investment opportunities in the world.

The Kingdom is China’s biggest supplier of crude oil, covering 19% of all Chinese oil imports in 2013, and has

Empower starts region’s first green district cooling facility Empower, the world’s largest district cooling service provider, has begun commissioning the region’s first district cooling plant built in line with green building principles. The facility will provide 45,000 Refrigeration Tonnes (RT) of cooling services to developments in Dubai’s Business Bay. “Commissioning of this plant is a demonstration of how seriously Empower takes sustainability. The facility has been planned as per international and regional benchmarks— in line with LEED principles, and Dubai’s directives on environmental sustainability,” said Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO, Empower.

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been its biggest trading partner in Western Asia and Africa for the last 12 years.

China became Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner in 2013. Their bilateral trade rose 14% the year before to reach $73bn, comfortably exceeding the target of $60bn set by both countries for 2015.

DEWA improves network efficiency In the next five years, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) will spend US$15bn to enhance network efficiency and capacity in preparations for Dubai Expo 2020, it was announced recently.

The authority is planning to invest $8.6bn in production and about $2.5bn each in transmission and power distribution.

Additionally, $1.5bn will be invested in the water sector.

Jordan cancels plans to build five wind power plants The Jordanian Energy Minister Mohammad Hamed recently announced that his government has scrapped plans to accept proposals to build five wind-run power plants with a total capacity of 400MW. The project is said to have been delayed due to several grid constraints including its inability to absorb more loads, local media reported. The grid’s capacity stands at 3,200MW at present and it can accept another 500MW. “Once we secure funds to expand the grid’s capacity, we will consider establishing several renewable energy power plants again,” Hamed was quoted as saying.

UPDATE Regional news

Solar power costs drop in Saudi Arabia Solar power costs have fallen over the last five years, due to lower module prices, lower balance of system costs, and increased competition at the development and EPC level.

Thus, for Saudi Arabia which has the right economies of scale, solar power can now be generated at between US$70 and $100/MWh, a price four times lower than in 2009, said Thierry Lepercq, founder, Solairedirect.

First Solar to build 52.5MW PV power plant in Jordan First Solar has signed an agreement to provide engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for the 52.5MW Shams Ma’an photovoltaic (PV) power plant, in Jordan. The company has also finalised a longterm operations and maintenance contract for the project.

First Solar contributed to the development of the project, which successfully secured a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement with the National Electric Power Company, the country’s power generation and distribution authority.

First Solar co-developed the project with Jordan’s Kawar Group, as part of its commitment to supporting foreign investment in the country.

Qatar Rail explores solar energy opportunities Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec), has entered into a strategic MOU with Qatar Railways Company to explore opportunities that may lead to the installation of up to 80MW of solar technology within Qatar’s multi-billion dollar railway development.

The first stage of the MOU will look at installing ground and rooftop mounted PV installations on the proposed rail depot that will be located near the new Sheikh Hamad International Airport. Qatar Rail is aiming to build one of the world’s most energy efficient rail networks through the use of sustainable and energy efficient technologies with a goal to achieve a 4 star GSAS rating.

Tenders for Dubai solar park released Deadline for submitting the bids for 100MW-Phase II is October 23, 2014 Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has released a tender for the 100MW-Phase II of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park to qualified Independent Power Producer (IPP) developers.

DEWA received 49 qualification documents through an open request that was released last May. DEWA has shortlisted 24 developers for the second phase of the tender. Deadline for submitting the bids is October 23, 2014.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai inaugurated the first phase of the photovoltaic power plant with a capacity of 13MW. “It has been connected to DEWA’s grid which covers the whole of the Emirate,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer,

Managing Director & CEO of DEWA. The project supports the Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative that promotes green economy in the UAE. It also supports the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 outlined by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy to diversify the energy mix by 2030.

Al Tayer expressed his satisfaction with the number of bids received for the project from international developers. He noted that wide international participation in this vital field reflects the trust and interest of international investors to invest in large projects supported by the government of Dubai.

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UPDATE Regional news

Oman reduces power losses in networks Distribution losses within the Main Interconnected System declined to 10.3% Electricity distribution companies in Oman have made significant gains in paring down technical losses, in trend with the power sector’s broader goal of bringing such losses roughly into line with internationally accepted levels.

The country’s Electricity Holding Company (EHC) said that distribution losses within the Main Interconnected System (MIS) declined to 10.3% last year, down from 13.9% in 2012, resulting in 25% reduction in losses. The MIS covers much of the northern half of Oman and accounts for the dominant share of the country’s total electricity output, a local news report said.

It is said to be the power sector’s best ever performance in curbing distribution losses which, along with other technical and non-technical losses, typically

account for a small, but notable, proportion of the nation’s total electricity output, that is lost due to a number of physical factors.

Distribution losses have been on a downward trend in recent years, slumping from 17.2% in 2009 to 14.4% a year later. It declined further to 12.8% in

Movenpick Hotel Doha awarded Green Globe

Environmental awareness increases in Abu Dhabi The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi’s (EAD) latest findings of their Environmental Awareness and Behaviour Survey show a promising increase, with 68% of those surveyed reporting pro-environment practices, compared to 55% in 2012.

Within the construction industry alone, the overall level of awareness on environmental issues improved from 24% in 2012 to 81% in 2013, while 88% of respondents expressed concern about waste management. On air quality issues, an astonishing 90% of those surveyed in 2013 reported that they understood that enhancing air quality was a priority.

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In recognition of its sustainable operations, Movenpick Hotel Doha in Qatar was recently awarded the Green Globe Certification.

With this, the hotel has become the most Green Globe certified hotel and resort chain in the world.

Green Globe is an internationally accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses.

2011 before unexpectedly spiking a bit to 13.9% in 2012.

However, distribution losses within the areas served by the Rural Areas Electricity Company and Dhofar Power Company were curtailed only marginally.

Losses were pegged at 14.8% last year, down only 3% since 2012.

New wastewater pipeline to be constructed in Jordan Jordan’s Ministry of Water and Irrigation will construct a new wastewater pipeline in the first quarter of 2015, to transport sewage from Zarqa Governorate and parts of Amman to Al Samra Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The new pipeline will be established next to an existent conveyor that was built 30 years ago, local media reported recently.

The ministry has completed studies for replacing the pipeline and the tender documents are being prepared. Construction on the project is scheduled for April next year, the official said.

Al Samra Wastewater Treatment Plant is also being expanded at a cost of US$223m.

ADVERTORIAL Hempel

Hempel’s Green Profile Hempel’s PureEarth range incorporates the latest coatings technology in a bid to create a healthier, more hygienic environment Whenever we build something, whether it’s renovating an existing building or constructing a new one, we make choices. These choices not only make a significant impact upon the construction cost but can also influence the health and comfort of the people who use the building, as well as the wider community and the environment.

A ‘green’ building is the result of numerous sustainable choices, notably the way in which the building uses energy and the materials that are used to build it. Hempel’s Purearth is a five-point strategy aimed at developing sustainable and ecofriendly paint products, because these small changes add up – and every choice we make helps to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for our planet.

1. Reducing VOC emissions Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present major health risks within paint applications. By employing advanced technologies and maintaining a stringent control over the formulations, Hempel has developed products such as Topaz Zero, which has zero VOC content, yet it provides top-quality finishes with excellent texture. By using zero VOC products, Hempel aims to provide our customers with a cleaner, healthier indoors environment within the confines of homes and offices.

2. Reducing hazardous materials Hempel’s desire for a greener tomorrow, backed up by extensive R&D, has inspired us to develop paints which are free from harmful raw materials. Hazardous substances such as lead, alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs) and formaldehydes have long formed a major constituent of

more greenhouse gases. Contex Thermoguard® helps to conserve energy through its efficient heat insulating properties, and this in turn will lead to a decreased carbon footprint and a greener tomorrow.

4. Reducing waste Hempel is committed to minimizing waste at each step of the business processes and through the products we offer. Using superior quality raw materials and refined production techniques we have been able to develop paints with excellent durability to maximise the recoating interval, ensuring surfaces are safer for a longer period of time.

At Hempel, chemical waste is disposed of in a hygienic way and all packaging materials are 100% recyclable. We also utilise the recyclable portion of production waste in all our factories, thereby minimizing the amount of disposable waste. All production waste is disposed of in a socially responsible manner and within the guidelines laid down by local government authorities.

the paints used within homes. The refined formulation of Hempel’s Topaz Zero, however, is produced using the latest techniques and contains zero levels of lead, APEOs and formaldehydes. It is also free from any ozone-depleting contaminants, thereby helping to keep the environment healthy and green.

3. Reducing energy consumption Hempel is contributing to worldwide efforts to reduce levels of energy consumption. Hempel’s Contex Thermogaurd® is an exterior paint

which can significantly help to lower the inside temperature, which in turn reduces the energy requirements for cooling the building.

Underpinning Hempel’s ideology is the belief that we should strive for a pure and flawless environment for the generations to come, and this can be achieved by minimising our carbon footprint i.e. the effect which we have on the environment through our activities, and the levels of energy which we consume.

Higher energy consumption increases the amount of fossil fuel burnt, which in turn produces

5. Reducing health hazards Hempel has developed a certified range of paints with prominent antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Topaz Zero is free from any kind of toxins and resists bacterial and fungal growth, at the same time it has excellent washable and weathering properties. Such paints are perfect for areas in which strict hygiene control is required such as hospitals, nurseries, kitchens etc.

Consumers’ health is a primary concern at Hempel, and constant efforts are underway to develop and manufacture paints which stay true to their promise of being ‘green’.

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UPDATE Regional news

GE’s Eco centre wins design award The 840sqm centre promotes energy, water use efficiency GE’s ecomagination centre in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, has won the Middle East Interior Design Award 2014 for best outstanding design in the ‘Corporate Space Small’ category.

Designed by AK Design, the ecomagination Centre is part of a strategic co-operation agreement signed between GE and Mubadala Development Company.

Featuring a range of sustainable features, the centre serves as a model in integrating intelligent design of space and green lifestyle features to promote energy and water use efficiency.

Randa Hakim, Senior Program Manager of GE, said, “The best design honour for our ecomagination centre, opened only in January this year, highlights the clear industry differential that we have brought to our prestigious initiative.

The centre reflects our commitment to promote sustainable development in the UAE, and serves as a model in how our ecomagination commitment is put to practice.”

Spread over an area of 840sqm, the GE

ecomagination centre highlights the UAE’s vision for a greener world, the significance of the GEMubadala partnership, and the various technologies of GE to secure a cleaner and more efficient energy infrastructure.

It highlights the global energy footprint, the regional and local initiatives to promote energy and water use efficiency with spotlights on the GE technologies that drive water, energy, lighting and transportation efficiency. It is also a hub for localised research and development.

Bahrain schools to adopt green technology

Al Ahlia Gulf Line achieves 20% in energy savings Al Ahlia Gulf Line, the licensed bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola brands in the UAE and Oman, announced that it had achieved 20% in energy savings, after upgrading its water production line with Sidel’s solutions.

With the installation of the ECO Booster, a comprehensive service based on the measurement, advice and continuous improvement of the blower, Al Ahlia Gulf Line has been able to improve the performance of the blow-moulder to significantly reduce the energy consumption.

The ISO 14001:2004 plant has also been certified by the Abu Dhabi Environment, Health and Safety Management System (ADEHSMS).

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Bahrain’s Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Works are constructing a primary school in Wadi al-Sael as per green building practices.

To be constructed in an area of 28,673sqm, the project is expected to cost US$9.9m.

Education Minister Dr Majid bin Ali Al-Nuaimi recently announced that the ministry is planning to construct more schools in the country using the green building technology.

Nearly 60% of the school’s foundation and the 50% of the electric substation has been constructed, according to the Assistant Undersecretary for Projects Construction and Maintenance at Bahrain’s Ministr y of Works (MoW).

NEWS briEfS Jumeirah corniche to use recycled materials for decks US-based manufacturers of eco-friendly wood-alternative decking, Trex Company, has been chosen to provide deck boards for Jumeirah Corniche Development Project, which is expected to be the longest constructed boardwalk in Dubai.

The Corniche project aims to convert the 14km of beachfront which spans six residential communities.

Care-Energy opens branch in beirut After successful international projects in Africa and Asia to supply hospitals, schools and private homes with clean sustainable energy, Care-Energy, producers of photovoltaic (PV) systems CareCel, opened its Beirut office.

CareCel, a PV system that has inbuilt storage facilities, is designed to provide independent energy supply, without a power grid.

UPDATE World news

Conservation

solar

Ford commits $100,000 to conservation in Middle East

Yingli continues Japanese photovoltaic surge

Over 150 environmental projects from the GCC, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq have benefitted to date

Firm to supply 32MW of PV modules to Gestamp Solar for a power plant in Japan

Ford Motor Company will award a total of US$100,000 in conservation and environmental grants to help fund existing environmental projects in the Middle East region.

For the first time, the programme is extended to environmental projects in Yemen in addition to the GCC, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq. The deadline to send applications is September 14, 2014.

Ahead of its 15th anniversary next year, the Ford Grants, which help grass-roots level projects in the Middle East, are already looking back on more than 150 successful green initiatives.

Over US$1m has been allocated since the initiative first started in 2000 and the support has helped projects to study and conserve the region’s rich biodiversity, to support recycling schemes and green building initiatives, as well as to raise conservation awareness.

In terms of monetary contributions, the Grants programme has had a significant impact in Lebanon, where a total of 37 projects received grants worth $322,500 to date.

In the Gulf, green projects from Saudi Arabia received the largest amount of support with a total of $193,000 given to organisations in the Kingdom since 2000. Environmental projects in Oman received nearly $160,000 in funding, while UAE-based projects were given $149,500.

Last year, 17 environmental projects from across Middle Eastern countries such as Lebanon, Jordan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Iraq also received various grants.

Yingli Solar’s wholly owned subsidiary Yingli Green Energy Spain has signed a 32MW supply agreement with Gestamp Solar, a Spanish developer and operator of utility-scale PV systems for a solar power plant in Daigo, Japan.

According to the agreement, Yingli Solar will deliver more than 125,000 multicyrstalline YGE 60 Cell Series PV modules to Gestamp Solar from October 2014 to February 2015.

The 31.6 MW solar PV plant will be situated on a former golf course in the town of Daigo, located in Japan’s Ibaraki Prefecture.

The PV system is expected to generate approximately 32.730 GWh per year of solar power, and utility grid interconnection is anticipated in the second quarter of 2015.

This is the first solar project developed by Gestamp Solar in Japan, and is also one of the largest utility-scale projects to be developed by a foreign company in Japan. Gestamp Solar is the sole proprietor of the project.

“This is an important milestone for Gestamp Solar. It is the largest single solar project to secure non-recourse financing in Japan and we are confident to see more projects on a similar scale in the future,” said Jorge Barredo, Chief Executive Officer of Gestamp Solar.

“This is not the first collaboration between Yingli Spain and Gestamp Solar. In 2012, a 20MW plant was built in Moquegua, Peru and Yingli was the sole PV module supplier. Gestamp Solar is a long-term strategic partner for us, and we look forward to a continuous and fruitful co-operation in the future,” said Fernando Calisalvo, Managing Director, Yingli Spain.

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UPDATE World news

renewables

tidal energy

US to build world’s largest renewable diesel plant

ABB to link Europe’s largest tidal project to UK

The project aims to produce 120m gallons of renewable diesel per year

MeyGen tidal stream project will use ABB technology to feed renewable energy into onshore grid

Bioenergy company SG Preston plans to build the world’s biggest purpose-built renewable diesel plant, which can produce fuel from feedstock waste.

The US$400m project, to be completed by 2017, aims to produce 120m gallons of renewable diesel per year and create 100 permanent jobs in Ohio, US, where it will be located.

Unlike biodiesel, renewable diesel, produced through hydrocracking vegetable oils and animal fats, has the same chemical properties as petroleum-based diesel and can thus be used as an immediate replacement of the fossil fuel.

However, its high production costs mean renewable diesel has so far not been competitive with its petroleumbased counterpart.

“For SG Preston, this is an important milestone and part of a larger vision of partnering with leading, global refining technology partners and local communities to develop a portfolio of renewable diesel and renewable jet fuel refineries targeting 1.2bn gallons per year,” said R Delbert LeTang, CEO of SG Preston.

A key component of the facility’s development is the licencing

by SG Preston of an advanced processing technology which has been successfully proven at commercial scale at other locations.

Moreover, this technology allows to customise its biofuel offering by adjusting fuel characteristics to meet various operating environments of the end user without diluting energy content in the fuel blend. Pre-engineering studies for the facility are expected to begin in September 2014.

Power and automation technology group ABB has been awarded a contract by Atlantis Resources to provide the onshore grid connection for Phase I of the MeyGen tidal stream project in Scotland’s Pentland Firth.

The MeyGen tidal stream project will harvest the tidal resources of one of the most energetic maritime sites in Europe, the strait connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea between the Orkney Islands and the Scottish mainland.

The first 6MW demonstration phase of the UK’s first largescale tidal array scheme will see four submerged turbines installed in the Inner Pentland Firth just north of Caithness, with first power expected to be delivered by 2016.

ABB is responsible for the onshore power conversion and grid connection systems to feed the electricity safely and reliably into the local distribution grid. ABB’s project scope includes design, engineering, supply and commissioning of the power conversion, switchgear and transformer solution as well as associated civil engineering and cabling works. Major product supplies include transformers, medium voltage switchgear and power converters.

“We are pleased to facilitate this innovative project and tap the potential of marine energy,” said Claudio Facchin, Head of ABB’s Power Systems division. “It reaffirms the faith our customers have in ABB’s technology and proven capability to deliver safe, reliable and efficient grid connections which play a key role in integrating renewables that are making an increasing contribution to the energy mix.”

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UPDATE Offbeat news

Turn toxic trash into solar panels Lead from old car batteries can be recycled to create renewable energy Researchers at MIT have announced a novel technology to recycle lead from discarded car batteries and fashion it into long-lasting solar panels.

After your old car battery dies, it may one day find new life, creating enough clean, renewable energy to power 30 households while also helping to reduce lead pollution.

Professors and graduate students at the university published their findings in the journal ‘Energy and Environmental Science’. They described how recent advances in solar technology allow for the use of a lead-based substance called perovskite to make solar cells.

“Amazingly, because the perovskite photovoltaic material takes the form of a thin film just half a micrometer thick, the team’s analysis shows that the lead from a single car battery could produce enough solar panels to provide power for 30 households,” MIT said in a statement about the discovery.

The lead-based cells are nearly as efficient as silicon-based cells used commercially today, the authors said, and recycled lead is just as effective as newly smelted lead.

“Cells made from perovskite have an efficiency of 19 to 20%,” said Po-Yen Chen, a graduate student of chemical engineering, who coauthored the paper.

Standard silicon-based cells have an efficiency ranging

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from 20 to 25%, Chen said.

Using car batteries as a source of lead for the panels benefits the environment in at least three ways: it recycles the neurotoxic heavy metal and keeps it out of landfills, reduces the need for mining and smelting, and creates sustainable, nonpolluting energy.

Environmental contamination from car-battery lead is a “global pollutant” that is especially acute in the developing world,” according to the Blacksmith Institute, a nonprofit group that works to clean up highly polluted sites where children are most at risk. Used car batteries are shipped to cities in the developing world.

“Recycling and smelting operations are usually conducted in the open air, in densely populated urban areas, and often with few (if any) pollution controls that release lead contaminated compounds into the local environment in critical quantities,” the Blacksmith Institute stated on its website.

In the United States, car batteries are the primary source of lead pollution.

The report found that the North American automobile industry contributes to the release or transfer of more than 136m kg of lead annually due to mining, smelting, manufacturing, recycling, and disposal, as well as normal vehicle use.

UPDATE Offbeat news

Boeing to make jet fuel from tobacco Test farming of tobacco plants, which are nicotine-free, is ongoing in South Africa US plane maker Boeing has teamed up with South African Airways to develop jet fuel from tobacco plant, as part of efforts to cut carbon emissions and promote green energy in Africa’s most advanced economy.

The jet fuel will be made from a hybrid tobacco plant known as Solaris, which will be produced by alternative jet fuel maker SkyNRG, both companies said in a joint statement.

Test farming of the plants, which are nicotine-free, is ongoing in South Africa, with biofuel output expected in the “next few years”, the companies said.

“By using hybrid tobacco, we can leverage knowledge of tobacco growers in South Africa to grow a marketable biofuel

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crop without encouraging smoking,” Ian Cruickshank, SAA’s Group Environmental Affairs Specialist, said.

This biofuel has potential in several regions where traditional tobacco is cultivated, including Africa, southern and central Europe, Asia, Oceania and Latin America.

South Africa has set the beginning of October next year as the date when fuel producers will start blending diesel and petrol with biofuel to cut its reliance on imported fuel.

The biofuels industry in South Africa, the continent’s biggest agricultural producer, has been held back by an inadequate regulatory regime and concerns that biofuels would hurt food security and impact food prices.

Cover Story Yousif Saeed Lootah

Fuelling change Yousif Saeed Lootah is committed to the cause of cleaner fuels in the region the biofuels industry has witnessed strong growth over the last decade due to concerns regarding environmental safety and a global focus on ensuring reduction in greenhouse emissions. High crude oil prices and implementation of government policies around the world have also driven the market.

Biofuel in the Middle East is fairly new, however, it is gaining traction. The UAE is at the forefront of this development as the country plans to become a world leader in biofuels from the algae industry by 2020, joining major countries which have already started practical steps in this direction.

Lootah Biofuels was founded in 2010 in Dubai to address the growing demand for alternative fuels in the region. Ashish Saraf speaks with yousif Saeed Lootah, the company’s CEO, about the potential and feasibilities of biofuel production in the GCC. According to estimates, biofuels will make up 8% of the world’s oil volumes by 2022. Do you think the GCC will have an important share in this?

I am quite certain that the GCC will have an important share in the demand and market of biofuels by 2022. Among the Gulf countries, the UAE is the pioneer in biofuels production.

Lootah Biofuels has plans for expansion in the entire GCC, Europe and US. Our initiatives have raised the demand for biofuels in the region as we see a clear rise in the number of organisations and people who join hands with us in our sustainability drive. This clearly proves that by 2022, the GCC will definitely have a considerable share in the global biofuel market.

The region has an advantage with biofuels due to hot temperatures and the fact that commercial vehicles are

already equipped with the required infrastructure to introduce biodiesel into their fleet. Will this accelerate the growth of the biofuels market further?

Biofuels have a better future in Middle East compared to the US and Europe. In northern US, Europe and other cold regions of the world, a major concerns among the users is the fuel’s unfavourable cold flow properties. In cold climates, it can be a challenge to fuel vehicles with high blends of biodiesel because it tends to freeze at higher temperatures while conventional diesel doesn’t. In the Middle East, however, temperature are relatively high which best suits the use of biodiesel. According to the standards set up by the Worldwide Fuel Charter Committee, EN 590 and ASTM D975 fuel specifications for petroleum-based automotive diesel fuel permit a biofuel extender content of up to 5% (B5) of the blend. This is up to 20% in the US because it represents a good balance of cost, emissions and cold-weather performance and does not require engine modifications.

Much like traditional, pure diesel, these blends can be used in any application. Engine manufacturers recommend B5 blending as it calls for no modification in the engine or fuel system. This is a great opportunity for governments to encourage mandatory B5 blending, given its long-term advantages.

Lootah biofuels signed a contract with Singapore-based AlgaOil to research mass production of biodiesel from algae. How is the project progressing?

The UAE has a huge potential for the cultivation of algae due to favourable climatic conditions. Algae, if harvested in UAE desert, will be unique because it can stand a wide change in temperature. Algae can be used throughout the year, offering a long harvesting season. This advantage has compelled us to consider using algae in the production of

“By 2022, the Gulf countries will definitely have a considerable share in the global biofuel market”

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Cover Story Yousif Saeed Lootah

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Cover Story Yousif Saeed Lootah

“With more and more GCC countries removing subsidies for diesel and following market prices, biodiesel has become attractive or at least become realistic� biodiesel. Our research team is working on the project relentlessly. We have the support of the government and other organisations who see this initiative as a milestone in promoting green energy.

Are you looking for more international collaborations in future?

We do have international collaborations for biodiesel research and development, but certainly we are also looking forward to joining hands with international players in the biodiesel market in order to address the demand and production on a larger scale.

We look forward to the exchange of technology, equipment, machinery, training and knowledge with companies in Europe and US. We also have plans to organise sustainability seminars and conferences within and outside the UAE. Our aim is to promote and popularise the use of biofuels both locally and internationally.

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How has your business of extracting biofuel from used cooking oil progressed in the past four years? What are the challenges that you faced?

We have managed to build up a systematic mechanism to collect used cooking oil from the restaurants, bakeries and food processing units throughout the UAE. We have a dediated team for used cooking oil collection. Presently we are collecting waste oil from more than 250 outlets and we are expecting that this number will go up.

In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, there are more than 4000 restaurants having a great potential to deliver used cooking oil for biodiesel production. The challenge is to get it consolidated and converted into biodiesel and get it dispensed through the dispensing channel. This requires great synergy between various stakeholders such as waste management companies, biodiesel producers and fuel companies as well as support and incentives from the government.

Cover Story Yousif Saeed Lootah

Another challenge is to make people and restaurants aware of the hazardous consequences of using used cooking oil intermittently because of the high acid content which can cause several diseases. We do a 100% conversion of the waste oil into biodiesel by the process of recycling, thereby converting waste into energy. Our awareness campaigns to promote a green environment has subsequently shown positive results which is evident from an increasing number of food chains that provide us used cooking oil and are partners in our sustainability drive.

What is the present capacity of your plant in Dubai?

Which industries do you cater to?

Our pilot project for biodiesel production has capacity is 300000l of B100 (100% biodiesel) in a month.

In the first stage, we are providing B5, which is a blend of 95% of petro diesel and 5% of biodiesel B100. We cater to logistic and transport companies and school buses in Dubai. The Dubai Road and Transport Authority has joined hands with us to become a part of our green initiative.

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SS Lootah International and Ardnt GmbH offer locally produced automated biodiesel plants for cooking oil conversion through-out the region. How is the demand for these plants?

We don’t have a solely commercial motive in this business as we highly consider the social cause involved in biodiesel production. We are promoting the use of biodiesel to save our environment and reduce carbon footprints.

Hence, we are encouraging and assisting people and companies who want to build a biodiesel plant by sharing our expertise with them. With our awareness initiatives, the demand for biodiesel plant has increased considerably as organizations are coming forward to join hands with us.

Considering the abundance of hydrocarbon in the Middle East, is the region serious about developing a market for biofuels?

Producing biodiesel at par with the traditional diesel prices in the GCC was once considered impossible. With more and more GCC countries removing subsidies for diesel and following market prices, biodiesel has become attractive or at least become realistic. The governments and authorities in the region have become serious in reducing the carbon emissions. Since biofuels have already entered the UAE market, the industry has full support of the government.

Working closely with universities, engineering teams and marketers, we have developed a model for biodiesel production that is complimentary to various sectors such as waste, transportation, energy, education and research, thus complimenting the sustainability strategy and the image of the UAE. Realising the importance of economic perspective, steps are taken on localising the technology and using the local synergies in ensuring that the cost of production remains below the cost of diesel.

01 Lootah Biofuels collects waste oil from more than 250 outlets in the UAE

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3 N OV E M B E R 2 014 | J U M E I R A H B E AC H H OT E L | D U B A I

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Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Hospitality trendsetters Modern hospitality includes more than just a comfortable stay. World over, large number of travellers are turning eco-conscious, counting their air miles and measuring their carbon footprint. Consequently, the hotel industry has risen to serve this demand, leaving no stone unturned. From following popular little ways to engage their guests, such as requesting them to reuse towels, to installing solar panels and wind turbines to generate energy, the hotels are going the extra mile to be sustainable. After all the hotels too stand to gain by promoting their businesses as an embodiment of green living. In the UAE, the Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has been promoting eco-tourism since 2009, when it first conceptualised the Dubai Green Tourism Awards. BGreen features some of the past winners of the awards and lists some others who could potentially win one in the future.

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Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Jebel Ali Golf Resort ‘Pioneers in green resorts’ Winners of DTcM’s Green Tourism Awards 2011 in 5 star hotel category, Jebel Ali Golf resort is possibly one of the earliest adopters of sustainable hospitality. The resort’s 128-acres of landscape and gardens including the entire 9-hole golf course are irrigated with recycled water by an onsite sewage treatment plant since 1981.

“Our beachfront property, Jebel Ali Golf Resort, is committed to environmental protection and we try our best to find various eco-friendly technologies and tools that can be implemented across the group. Similarly, for reducing the usage of electricity, we replaced incandescent bulbs with LED lights and energy saving bulbs throughout the resort five years ago,” says David Thomson, Chief Operating Officer, JA Resorts & Hotels.

After passing a certification process based on 337 compliance indicators that cover 41 criteria for sustainability, the resort was given the official Green Globe Certification in 2013. As an active member of the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), the resort also undertakes several recycling initiatives, which is said to have been set into place over the past ten years.

“We have a set garbage disposal system where we carefully divide and recycle dry waste, wet garbage, glass and other hazardous material. We have installed separate cages for these items to be disposed of into. These are located in our

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loading bay,” says Thomson.

Solar is an increasingly important alternative energy for commercial use and the resort has an integrated solar generated hot water system at JA Palm Tree Court and at the staff accommodation within its premises. Solar powered lights have also been installed around the garden and football grounds, and there is ongoing research and development taking place to further incorporate solar power across the group.

“We encourage purchase of eco-friendly sustainable alternative products and services wherever possible and it is based on certain selection criteria such as if the vendor has green globe or equivalent certification, uses eco-friendly transportation and is committed to buying eco-friendly products. We collect documentary evidence of such practices and purchasing and collate a list of suppliers who follow environmentally friendly practices,” Thomson adds.

“We believe strongly that the vendor should use ecofriendly and reusable packing material and should take back the same for reusing and recycling purposes. The hotel tries to consolidate the purchase to avoid unnecessary transportation which in turn will result in minimising carbon emission. We also give preference to the products and services manufactured/ produced within the country,” he says. The resort also purchases

Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

‘Energy Star’ rated equipment or machinery.

Further, the resort has also taken up the initiative of educating its associates, guests and the local community about sustainability, and keeping younger guests in mind, has increased the number of awareness activities for children too.

Other than the information cards that are placed in every guest room requesting them to reduce the usage of water and reuse towels and linen for an extra day, a large signage is placed by the marina that advises guests on socially responsible marina activities and about the Blue Flag beach programme.

The resort’s 1,000sqm organic bio garden grows herbs and vegetables using the Aquaponic system.

“The bio garden serves also an educational venue for guests, schools and universities where we explain how 90% less water is used here in comparison with normal gardens. Water irrigation dripping lines, bamboo poles and nets for protection of the herbs

were funded by the sale of the kitchen’s discharged cooking oil to an organisation that produces bio fuel,” says Thomson.

Efforts to save energy, increase recycling, manage resources, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance marine life are said to be just a few examples of the steps taken by the resort’s employees towards sustainability. From instilling simple habits of switching off the lights and computer when not in use to using water recycling tanks in the laundry department, all teams are active supporters of the green movement, says Thomson.

The employees meet quarterly to discuss and work on earth related projects, marine life-driven initiatives and further community involvement ranging from Earth Hour to Clean Up campaigns. The resort has also supported DTCM workshops on Tourism Environmental Training and the UAE Green Festival.

Thomson adds that the staff is the driving force behind the positive impact that these initiatives have had.

The resort has an integrated solar generated hot water system at JA Palm Tree Court and at the staff accommodation within its premises

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01 The resort’s 1,000sqm organic bio garden grows herbs and vegetables using the Aquaponic system

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The group that brought Africa’s Greenest Hotel to Cape Town Airport, now offers project management of design, construction, operation and implementation of world-class sustainable hotel developments globally. Hotel Verde, Africa’s Greenest Hotel & first hotel in Africa to offer carbon neutral accommodation to guests, currently runs at 70% higher energy efficiency than an average hotel. It is also the first hotel in Africa to receive Platinum LEED for New Construction by the United States Green Building Council. Verde Invest provides a one stop solution for investors, hotel owners and developers to capitalise on the rapidly growing industry of green building and sustainable tourism.

Visit verdeinvest.net to learn more & to view our flagship project : Hotel Verde, Cape Town Airport, Africa’s Greenest Hotel (www.hotelverde.co.za)

Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Grand Hyatt ‘Implementing all round initiatives’

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What sets Grand Hyatt Dubai apart is the fact that the hotel’s building has been constructed as an eco-friendly entity. The hotel is committed to designing and operating sustainable processes using appropriate technology and ensuring efficacy through regular measurement of key environmental performance indicators.

Grand Hyatt Dubai has also been awarded the ISO 14001 certification which is a globally recognised Environmental Management Standard. Comprehensive energy conservation initiatives were implemented by the hotel in 2013, such as, installation of efficient heat pumps, upgrading existing solar water heating systems, and switching to LED lights.

A Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant too has been installed which makes effluent water reusable in the hotel’s cooling towers and outdoor water streams.

Grand Hyatt Dubai recycles materials such as paper, cans and biodegradable waste, which are separated at the ground level, to enable proper disposal. In collaboration with Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), the hotel also takes part in various recycling campaigns.

Local sourcing is seen as an increasingly crucial aspect of purchasing especially in promoting sustainability. In fact more than 95% of all purchases engaged by the hotel is said to come from local vendors, which in turns reduces the impact of greenhouse emissions.

According to the company, it places a high level of emphasis

More than 95% of all purchases engaged by the hotel is said to come from local vendors on welcoming its guests as a partner in its sustainability initiatives. Every month, a newsletter is placed in all guestrooms which informs them about practices they can support, without compromising on their comfort and luxury. The guests are also advised to remove their keycards from the electricity slots in the room when they leave, so that the AC temperature is regulated at an optimum 24°C. In addition, they can opt for replacing towels and bed linens on alternate days instead of daily.

Further, all new associates joining the hotel are said to go through an induction programme which introduces to them the various conservation and sustainability practices undertaken by the hotel. At the departmental level, associates are further informed about specific roles and personal contributions they can make. Throughout the year the hotel is said to undertake various employee engagement activities such as tree-planting in the hotel grounds and clean-up of Wadi Wurayah in partnership with the Emirates Wildlife Society.

02 Solar water heating systems at Grand Hyatt Dubai

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Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Ibis Al Barsha ‘Saving the planet’ Three star hotel ibis, in Al Barsha, considers water, energy and waste as some of the key focus areas for sustainable development, as outlined under the Accor sustainability Programme Planet21, which is also followed by other hotels under the group. in 2012, the hotel received 1st place in the Dubai Green Tourism Award under the 3-star hotel category.

In order to regulate the use of water, the hotel has installed water flow regulators in all taps and showers of guest bathrooms while WC flush tanks have been reduced from 9l to 7l. Adiabatic cooling system are installed to reduce the load of air conditioning system, while LED lamps and motion sensors are used in all guestroom corridors to save energy. However, the hotel has no plans to utilise solar power at this point in time.

About the hotel’s recycling activities, Philippe Montaubin, Cluster General Manager Novotel, Ibis and Adagio Al Barsha, says, “Paper, PET bottles, aluminium cans, glass bottles, cooking oil, carton boxes, tube lights, batteries and cartridges are collected and sorted in the main recycling room of the hotel on a weekly basis. The teams are trained on waste segregation practices and there is a drive to constantly

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improve our recycling efforts. Even our offices segregate waste.”

The management at Ibis Al Barsha also puts emphasis on sourcing locally produced items. They have been able to reduce the carbon footprint that would otherwise be caused by transporting from overseas, not to mention depletion of natural resources. By sourcing from local vegetable and fruit vendors, the hotel also hopes to promote local agriculture and economy.

“At our main reception, we have displayed the details of our environmental programme. We have also gone to the extent of having all doors with the number 21 re-decorated to promote Accor’s Sustainable Development programme - Planet 21.

It is a journey with our guests and other stakeholders,” Montaubin says.

However, he adds that the hotel’s strength lies in the commitment of its teams, who are trained to help consolidate this commitment. The hotel trains its associates as per the tenets of the Planet21, while informing them of the steps and actions taken by the group, and their role in meeting the objectives of the programme. The group is also said to have sustainable development e-learning programmes to train other collaborators.

“We also conduct the ISO 14001 training during which the hotel’s environmental management policies are explained to all staff. These trainings are required for staff of all levels.

The system, while endorsing our sustainability efforts, drives us towards continual improvement,” Montaubin says.

Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Novotel Deira City Centre ‘Ensuring collaborative efforts’

Novotel Deira city centre works on the philosophy that sustainable development “should meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Guided by the Accor’s sustainable Development Program Planet 21, the hotel has been awarded ‘Earth check’ – silver level and iso 14001 certification.

The hotel has embraced simple initiatives such as replacing halogen bulbs with LED and using electrical calorifiers with eco-efficient heat pumps for hot water. It has also installed automatic condenser tube cleaning system to enhance the performance of chillers and is using energy efficient heat pumps to maintain the water temperature at swimming pool during winter. Additionally, energy, water and LPG consumption is monitored closely on a daily basis.

“To optimise the performance of building equipment, the Building Management System (BMS) is fine-tuned regularly,” says Ramesh Bappoo, General Manager Novotel & Ibis Deira City Centre, Delegate Hotels & ISS. “We have installed CO2 sensors and VFD to optimise the performance of HVAC system in the building. Most importantly we have initiated an internal campaign to reduce gas emission including

optimising building equipment operation.”

To promote water conservation, the hotel treats grey water which is used in the building’s air conditioning system, in addition to using low flow shower and taps. The management also closes floors starting from the highest ones when occupancy is low.

“We have a comprehensive contract with an external company to collect all sorts of waste we segregate including the hazardous ones, which have to be treated separately.

Internally we use colour coding bins, work with the suppliers to reduce plastic packaging, collect and send the used oils to a Dubai Municipality approved company, and educate the team by displaying segregation processes posters throughout the hotels,” says Bappoo.

From a purchasing perspective, this means the hotel considers not only the cost and quality of products, but also social and environmental factors associated with each purchase.

By applying its Planet 21 Sustainable Purchasing Policy, the hotel is said to give priority to local products – whenever possible - thus supporting the local economy as well as limiting pollution related to the transport of goods.

A purchasing tracking tool that monitors the volume, origin and destination of purchases is also used. Today, 26% of the hotel’s purchases are locally produced.

Bappoo feels that the guests are thrilled to participate in the hotel’s sustainable development programme. During the Environmental Awareness Week held every month, the hotel displays presentations on various topics and engages guests by asking them for feedback on the green initiatives and places tent cards about energy and water conservation in the rooms.

Novotel & Ibis Deira City Centre also organises yearly conferences on sustainability where the suppliers and representatives of Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Emirates Environmental Group, DEWA and Dubai Municipality are invited.

“Staff awareness is the key point. We will never reach our goals without the commitment of our team members. Every single one of them is trained in sustainable development and together they work towards implementing activities such as the Earth Hour. Posters too are displayed in all departments and in the staff accommodations promoting sustainability,” says Bappoo.

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Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Holiday Inn Jumeirah ‘Holidaying with nature’

Towers Rotana ‘A conscious strategy’

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Holiday inn Jumeirah won the second prize at DTcM’s Green Tourism Awards 2011 in the 2-star category. The hotel was ranked for its use of environmental tools and techniques such as energy and water conservation, building design efficiency, responsible purchasing processes, waste management, recycling, tree planting and usage of eco products.

The hotel has been taking a number of initiatives to ensure efficiency. Light sensors have been fitted at all areas where the switches were operated manually. Chiller set points are regularly adjusted, even in vacant rooms, throughout the day in order to maintain optimal temperature as per prevalent weather conditions. Further, a night technician is said to follow up on a list of energy-saving routines regularly.

Holiday Inn Jumeirah has arranged for the checking and replacing of all malfunctioning chill water controlling valves in rooms and public areas periodically. The hotel is also currently replacing all halogen lights in public areas to LED. The company uses segregation bins and recycles cartons, bottles, cans and papers for a cost. All the data is monitored and maintained in the in-house IHG Green Engage online sustainability programme. The programme tells hotels what they can do to be a ‘green’ hotel and gives them the means to conserve resources and save money – by measuring, managing and reporting their energy and waste consumption, as well as benchmarking the ability to create action plans to track progress.

All staff members are trained in the hotel’s sustainability initiatives. Each department head educates their team members about strategies to conserve water, electricity and recycling. Room attendants are advised to flush the toilets only once during cleaning and are encouraged to use natural lighting while cleaning the rooms.

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Towers rotana, as part of the company’s corporate social responsibilities, is said to have embraced a conscious strategy that does not follow the pack, but demonstrates a sense of responsibility to the present and future generations, to guests, colleagues, the environment and communities.

The hotel monitors the use of electricity and water on monthly basis and has set targets for reduction as part of its annual sustainability goals.

Towers Rotana segregates recyclable waste at source and has a partnership with EEG for collection of empty tetra pack boxes. A target has been set for increasing the recyclable waste and reducing the general waste to landfills as part of the annual sustainability targets. Further, whatever money is generated from such activities is donated to charity.

The hotel also supports sourcing from local vendors as it helps in reducing carbon foot print via reduction in transportation. Environmental collaterals are placed in the rooms and toilets, advising the guests about the importance of water consumption and reducing the use of chemicals, while digital screens across the hotel shares environmental tips.

Further, the hotel has trained all its associates in the basics of environment and its sustainability programme – a training that is followed by a refresher from time to time.

The hotel monitors the use of electricity and water on a monthly basis and has set targets for reduction

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Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Sofitel The Palm ‘Leading environmental innovation’ A combination of sustainable design and innovative technology promotes sofitel The Palm’s initiatives towards greener operations.

The resort has inculcated some unique features into its design such as cape reed thatching which is used for roofing 3,000sqm area. it allows trapped water and heat to escape making it waterproof and uV-proof, which is ideal for the local climate. The material, which comes from sustainable African forests is said to provide one of the most durable natural fibers on earth with a life expectancy of 20-50 years.

The resort also features 600sqm live green wall with 120 different species of plants.

The resort has 232 roof top solar panels set up across an area of 530sqm, and has a 2,200kw of heat output per day.

Half of the resort’s total hot water requirements is taken care by the solar heaters. While air conditioning is done through district cooling, the entire AC condensate drains are connected to the irrigation tank which is then recycled to water the resort’s 27,000sqm landscaping. Further, installation of a ‘weather station’, which measures temperature and humidity among other things, makes for efficient use of sprinklers, saving almost 40% of water consumption. All the kitchens and public areas at Sofitel The Palm have been installed with water sensors, which has saved almost 10,000 CuM of water within six months, according to the company. All its fresh air handling system units too are installed with an energy recovery units. The

resort’s HVAC system is equipped with 69 VFD’s for energy saving and has incorporated Building Management System (BMS) and Guest Rooms Management System (GRMS) in its initial design for efficient operations.

Sofitel’s staff accommodation in Jumeirah Village, which houses more than 800 staff has also been specially designed with sustainable technologies. Seventy-eight solar panels have been fitted on the roof covering 180sqm area. The grey water system has also been installed in the building which recycles the wastewater and generates 120cu m water per day, usually used in the flushing system, cooling towers, and for landscaping.

The resort has a recycling programme in place for paper, plastic, cardboard, oil, glass as well as hazardous waste. The programme has so far generated savings equivalent to 1,557 trees or 101,060l of oil, almost 641,060 gallons of water and 5,495 pounds of air pollutants. Also all the hazardous waste such as bulbs, batteries and chemical cans are disposed of through a government approved agency.

As part of the Accor group, Sofitel follows the Planet-21 programme, which has several specific criteria to comply with to achieve bronze, silver or gold level of compliance. The resort also achieved the Green Globe certification for the resort within just six months of beginning operations, with 90% rating for its compliance standards. Further, Sofitel aims to have ISO 14001 certification and Blue flag certification for its beach by October 2014.

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Eco LEisurE Green Hotels

Hotel Verde ‘Africa’s frontrunner in innovation’

Hotel Verde in cape Town, south Africa is said to be the first hotel in Africa to receive Platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for New construction by the united states Green Building council (usGBc).

The hotel believes that sustainability should be more than just window dressing and has integrated and installed green technologies in the design and construction. Water saving features include a grey water recycling system, rain water capture (40,000l tank), filtration, low flow taps, some of which have timers, dual flush toilets and waterwise landscaping and irrigation systems. Together, these are said to yield about 70% saving on potable water and in addition to this, water is saved during daily operations through onsite bottling and filtration of water, and through the re-use of water used to rinse vegetables in the kitchen.

In terms of energy, the hotel is currently said to be 70% more efficient than a regular Cape Town hotel. This is achieved through a number of technical systems such as motion and daylight controlled light fittings, energy star rated equipment and regenerative drive elevators.

However, some of the most innovative and unique energy features of the hotel is a power-generating gym equipment, three vertical-axis wind turbines, a geothermal loop system, intelligent heating and cooling system (HVAC) and 220 PV panels on the roof and northern façade.

Hotel Verde also hosts an intelligent building management system that monitors and controls efficiency of the building.

It conducts a carbon management and reduction programme through which all carbon created by the hotel is offset through responsible carbon capturing and reduction projects. This ensures that the guests’ accommodation or conference is 100% carbon neutral.

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Hotel Verde is currently said to be 70% more efficient than a regular Cape Town hotel In terms of recycling, the hotel currently diverts more than 85% of its waste from landfill, working towards a target of zero waste to landfill. The initiative is supported by stringent onsite waste separation, composting, reuse and upcycling.

The hotel has a guest incentive programme through which they can earn Verdinos (the hotel’s inhouse currency) by making their stay greener. The guests can earn by choosing not to use their air conditioning, reusing their linen or towels, ordering a vegan meal, using the stairs instead of the lift and making use of the power generating gym equipment. All guests also receive a carbon offsetting certificate after their stay so that they are aware of the savings they have made by staying at the hotel. By staying at the hotel for a night, the hotel says, it can help the guest offset 27.35kg of carbon, saving 76.03kWh of electricity, 393.02 litres of water and diverting 2.1kg of waste. And by hosting a half-day conference, it can offset nearly 71.19kg of CO2.

Further, all staff at Hotel Verde receive a green induction training upon joining. In terms of operating practices, the hotel has an inhouse staff programme called Avanti (Italian for moving forward) which consists of trainings and awareness drives. It consists of smaller departmental trainings and a monthly group session in which the concept of sustainability is propagated in a fun manner.

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supply chain Green Logistics

critical competence The need for a transparent and traceable supply chain in the Middle East is now non negotiable

Effective supply chain management involves integrating environmentally and financially viable practices into the complete lifecycle, from product design and development, to material selection, manufacturing, packaging, transportation, warehousing, distribution, consumption, return and disposal.

Environmentally sustainable supply chain management and practices can assist organisations in not only reducing their total carbon footprint, but also in optimising their endto-end operations to achieve greater cost savings and profitability. It is believed that all supply chains can be optimised using sustainable practices.

Monaem Ben Lellahom, Managing Partner at Sustainable Square, a consultancy company, says, “Through building closer relations with suppliers, developing supplier capacity, and identifying and investing in opportunities for social,

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environmental and economic improvement throughout the supply chain, companies can begin to gain benefits from a more sustainable supply chain and achieve productivity and efficiency gains.”

“The business case for sustainability in the supply chain for a particular company depends on a variety of issues including field of operation, geographic location, stakeholder expectations, business priorities and organisational culture.

There are best practices and key value drivers for sustainable procurement and economic indicators that apply across a number of elements in areas such as risk management, cost saving and realising efficiencies, producing sustainable products, for cleansing suppliers, transparency, and ethical business conduct,” he adds.

In a case study shared by Lellahom in his article titled ‘Sustainable supply chain to drive financial and economic

supply chain Green Logistics

growth: Middle East context’, he explains how NBAD worked on its supply chain towards opening its greenest branch in Masdar City.

The bank’s branch is said to be furnished with recyclable furniture constructed from recycled materials, as well as energy efficient and resource optimising IT equipment. Using its environmental criteria to engage with its suppliers, the bank screened for restricted materials such as toxic, unsustainably harvested, and environmentally harmful materials in furnishing the branch.

While the concept of sourcing environmentally is a relatively new one in the region, most of the suppliers already had environmental policies or procedures in place, but despite that it is said to have been difficult to find locally based suppliers offering certified products, Lellahom says in the case study. In particular, certified raw materials were difficult

to find and NBAD had to ultimately import them.

As a result, three suppliers provided 100% environmentally certified materials which made up 51% of the total materials bought. Six suppliers provided energy efficient equipment with the possibility of recycling most of the components through environmentally responsible sources and these items made up 28% of the supplies purchased.

The remaining items procured made up 21% of the total supplies and were not from sustainable sources, as the bank was unable to find any suitable products available at the time although these items can be recycled at the end of their life cycle.

“NBAD also selected IT equipment to minimise the number of machines required and the amount of paper and toner consumed in their function, thereby maximising IT use, energy efficiency and end-of-life recyclability,” Lellahom says.

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supply chain Green Logistics

“The business case for sustainability in the supply chain for a particular company depends on a variety of issues including field of operation, geographic location, stakeholder expectations, business priorities and organisational culture” MonaeM Ben LeLL ahoM, Managing Partner at SuStainaBLe Square

It is clear that supply chains, for most organisations, have of their operations. While most corporate and public focus has been on the sustainable profile of a product, there is a need to spotlight and understand the sustainability issues related to the transportation and distribution of those products.

TracEabiliTy Well aware and environmentally conscious consumers are voraciously tracing the origin of the goods they buy. On a corporate scale, supply chain traceability is generally identified as a process by which a product is moved from its original raw material extraction and production phase to the final customer.

It is a useful tool that provides important information on the components of products, parts and materials as well as information on transformations throughout the value chain, according to UN Global Compact.

In the context of corporate sustainability, traceability can verify certain sustainability claims associated with commodities and products, and can help ensure good practice, while respect for people and the environment are integrated throughout the supply chains.

The use of a traceability system can address a variety of environmental and social issues related to a certain commodity 01

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– for instance, climate change and deforestation, when related to sustainable farming practices; or human rights, when ensuring that certain commodities – such as minerals and diamonds —are not sourced from conditions of armed conflict.

For example, in 2010, the US Congress passed the DoddFrank Act, which directs its Securities and Exchange Commission to issue rules requiring certain companies to disclose their use of conflict minerals and that if those minerals are “necessary to the functionality or production of a product” manufactured by those companies. It was passed because of concerns that the exploitation and trade of conflict minerals by armed groups is helping to finance conflict in the DRC region and is contributing to an emergency humanitarian crisis. Under the Act, these minerals include tantalum, tin, gold or tungsten, popularly dubbed as 3TG. Today, as a two-year grace period soon expires, thousands of US corporations are still scrambling to overcome severe obstacles to gather and authenticate a complex web of supply chain information to meet conflict minerals reporting requirements.

Source Intelligence, a supply chain management recently announced, and added that first-year reporting for conflict minerals and ongoing monitoring reveal just how complex 02

01 Muhammad akber (r) with Habiba al Marashi of the arabia cSr Network and Eugene Mayne, Tristar Group cEO 02 Edwin lammers, Executive commercial Manager, Sohar Port

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supply chain Green Logistics

the processes and systems can be in order to ensure compliance with SEC rules.

Omani Port of Sohar’s commercial chief Edwin Lammers says, traceability is vitally important to safeguarding consumers, the local community, and the integrity of the supply chains the port serves. He adds that it is also a common responsibility that Sohar port shares with members of those chains.

“As we continue to grow, there is no doubt that we will have to work hard to maintain pace with the growing number of customers, countries, and industries we interact with. It already involves monitoring backward traceability to producers and suppliers, and forward traceability to markets and customers.

Then there is manufacturing traceability, which adds a whole other dimension to the process,” he says.

As one of the largest port development sites in the world, the sheer scale of the task in hand is perhaps the most daunting challenge, Lammers says.

“But, our credentials speak for themselves; our environmental record was one of the main reasons we were awarded the title of 2013 Port Authority by Seatrade Middle East,” he adds.

The concept of traceability in supply chain management is like a cradle-to-grave approach, according to Muhammad Akber, Chief Sustainability Officer, Tristar. The company is a fully integrated liquid logistics company, headquartered in Dubai, serving international and local petroleum and chemical companies.

“Traceability is the ability to keep track of goods or service as they pass from first to the last step of their supply chain.

The mechanism helps to ensure that the three fundamental elements of sustainability i.e. people, environment and economy are complied. The traceability in supply chain can also improve safety, efficiency, cost, wastage reduction and customer satisfaction. It is also believed to impose social and environmental responsibilities which can create long term economic success for firms in supply chain,” he says.

However, he agrees that there are certain challenges to

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“The traceability in supply chain can improve safety, efficiency, cost, wastage reduction and customer satisfaction” MuhaMMad akBer, Chief SuStainaBiLit y offiCer, triStar

implement it in the current scenario. Wide diversity of supply chain stakeholders from big multinationals to single truck owners, lack of knowledge or guidance on the subject, unavailability of technology, absence of common platform or network, little or no effective coordination mechanism between supply chain members, cost implications, business priorities and similar factors present challenge to implement traceability in the true sense, Akber says.

While traceability can be a very effective tool to address certain sustainability issues, it may only uncover one set of risks and not all potential adverse impacts, depending on the specific nature of the traceability scheme and the issues that it covers. Traceability is not a substitute for broader due diligence in furtherance of the corporate responsibility to respect human rights. Whenever sustainability issues are not covered by traceability, they should still be addressed separately using the appropriate policies and procedures.

Global collaboration, driven by multi-stakeholder collaborative schemes, is the key to success in traceability.

According to the UN Global Compact report, the most effective way forward for traceability is through the global support of independent, multi-stakeholder collaborative schemes to govern traceability by commodity.

Green Business Al Hamra Village

Bigfoot on trial Developments like Al Hamra Village and around 850 other projects have asserted the UAE’s position as one of the top 10 countries for LEED outside of the US To the rest of the world, the united Arab emirates is seen as the opposite of sustainability, but a wave of environmental consciousness among property developers and consumers is making the oil-rich nation an unlikely frontrunner in pursuit of zero-energy living, according to a leading real estate developer.

“Families are fond of the luxury lifestyle on offer in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al-Khaimah, but they are also becoming increasingly conscientious about the environmental impact of their lifestyles,” says Benoy Kurien, General Manager of a pioneering US$550m gated community called Al Hamra Village.

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Green Business Al Hamra Village

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Green Business Al Hamra Village

“Families are fond of the luxury lifestyle on offer in cities like Dubai, but they are also becoming increasingly conscientious about the environmental impact of their lifestyles” Benoy Kurien, Al HAmrA reAl estAte Developments’ GenerAl mAnAGer

The United Arab Emirates has the third largest ecological footprint in the world, with each of its 9m residents requiring 8.4 global hectares – hectares that a 2012 Living Planet Report says represent demand on worldwide production and CO2 sequestration. Combine this with carbon emissions totalling 20 metric tonnes (five times the global average), 2,214 air traffic movements per day, and 70 million taxi journeys, and it’s not hard to see why the Gulf state is criticised for its global resource consumption.

However, amid all of this uproar, a green revolution is quietly taking place within the UAE’s tireless construction industry. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s headquarters is perhaps the most prominent example of this shift, having been awarded the much-coveted LEED Platinum certification and a Five-Star rating for a third consecutive year by the US Green Building Council and British Safety Council, respectively.

This impressive architectural feat, together with developments like Al Hamra Village and around 850 other projects, has asserted the United Arab Emirates’ position as one of the top 10 countries for LEED (or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) outside of the US. With the total registered and certified leasable LEED space in the country quickly reaching 47m gross square meters, Al Hamra Real Estate Developments’ General Manager Benoy Kurien is keen to outline his own ambitious plans to join the ranks.

“Al Hamra Village is one of the most sought after real estate developments in the northern emirates, and we have recently entered an exciting new era with a leading green architect in Europe, with the aim of creating the first LEED certified residential area in the Middle East,” says Kurien.

“These luxury residences will be built to the highest architectural and environmental standards, and surrounded by the finest in hospitality and leisure amenities the region has to offer,” he adds.

The partnership, between Al Hamra Real Estate Development and Swiss-based sustainable architecture firm A++, plans to invest US$190m in the new development, which will be known as Falcon Island. In line with LEED criteria, Falcon Island will incorporate environmental impact assessments within the building site itself, and extend to the

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shape of the structures and choice of renewable resources and systems.

One of the sites most impressive features will be its near zero-energy consumption facilities, with energy for cooling homes, powering street lights, to be sourced from innovative photovoltaic panels positioned strategically and solar cooling plant that will be constructed as part of the development.

Kurien’s commitment to setting a new benchmark for high-end living is also a bold and somewhat courageous step given the widespread feeling that ‘green’ and ‘luxury’ are not compatible. But, this too is something he believes to be extremely misleading.

“When people think of the UAE, they think of big cities and, from the comfort of their air conditioned surroundings, quite rightly question the ecological impact of these cities,” he says.

“What is sometimes easy to overlook, however, is that until earlier this year one of these emirates was home to the world’s most sustainable building, and that is something we aim to emulate,” he continues.

High demand for properties capable of tapping into the region’s abundant renewable energy resources can certainly drive growth in this fledgling sector.

The fact that green properties attract a 9% premium when compared with other offerings on the market is also likely to entice further investment, providing projects like Falcon Island can show the long-term sustainability they are designed to achieve.

These sentiments are echoed by A++’s Partners, Paolo and Carlo Colombo who speak of their intention to set an important precedent, and start a chain reaction that will see the UAE become a ‘green’ capital.

“There are few places in the world that can send a stronger message of the possibilities for the future of green living than those in a desert. That is why Falcon Island is so important to us,” says Paolo Colombo.

We do not have all the answers to climate change, if only it was that simple. But Rome wasn’t built in a day either; it was built by aspiring men who encouraged others to follow in their footsteps,” he concludes.

01 Benoy Kurien, General Manager, Al Hamra Real Estate Developments

Green education Sustainability Courses

readying eco-warriors Courses addressing environmental change and social adaptability are slowly appearing in university prospectuses around the region

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Green education Sustainability Courses

Sustainable development refers to the challenges of improving wellbeing, while reducing threats to the earth’s systems from industrialised production and consumption.

Effective environmental care in relation to climate stability, biodiversity and renewal of natural resources requires the examination of how societies organise social, economic and political activity, how they relate to their surroundings and how they ensure the renewal of natural resources for future generations.

Courses addressing environmental change and social adaptability are slowly appearing in university prospectuses around the region. For the most part, these topics come in the form of new post-graduate courses.

For example, the British University in Dubai offers programmes such as Sustainable Design of the Built Environment and Architecture Sustainable Built Environment (PhD).

“These programmes cover different aspect of sustainability from the passive architectural design, healthy indoor environment, energy conservation and management (construction materials, high efficiency equipment and usage strategies), urban level design including transportation, renewable energy, rehabilitation of existing structures, maintenance and reliability of a wide range of systems, modelling and optimization of control systems,” says Prof Bassam Abu-Hijleh, Atkins Chair & Dean of faculty of engineering and IT at The British University in Dubai.

Combining different subjeCts Sustainability as a subject can only be taught by drawing from several academic disciplines. The answers to the big global questions cannot be found within single traditional disciplines such as biology or politics.

The modern courses tend to combine elements of environmental science, economics and politics. They often include modules covering new topics such as global environmental politics or the sustainability of food production. Enabling students to learn from multiple disciplines is a crucial step towards helping them address the big problems facing society. This is particularly important since one cannot predict what the future problems might be.

“The universities need to cover all areas of sustainability, starting from the proper definition to implementation and

measuring results with some regional background,” says Ibrahim Al Zubi, Head of Sustainability, Majid Al Futtaim Properties. flexibility and online learning Broad interdisciplinary degrees are unfortunately not yet widely available in the region. However, more international universities are now offering flexible combined honours degrees. This approach is similar to the US major/minor model of higher education.

Many university students also now routinely use Massive Open Online Courses to extend their learning beyond their degrees. Supplementing learning with online courses provides broader training than is available through standard degrees.

Such approaches are well placed to provide the diversity of knowledge students need to address the global environmental and social problems that don’t stay within the realms of a single subject. But diversifying education is only part of the change needed. The methods used to teach and assess students also play critical roles in making them adaptable.

Problem-based learning is already at the heart of many medical and law degrees. It provides the opportunity to practice broad thinking under real-world situations. It also encourages self-directed and explorative learning. This approach could be used more broadly to encourage the ability to adapt what students need in the current climate.

For example, students could be faced with a local farmer who is experiencing crop failures, or a small business which is struggling due to the increasing cost of raw materials.

The students then research the underlying problems and potential solutions.

Both scenarios are broadly related to climate change, but the first might require pulling together subjects such as ecology, soil science, engineering, and economics. The second scenario might require research on climate forecasting, ecosystem services, and business.

Internationally, some universities now offer cross-disciplinary problem-based learning events focused around global challenges such as food security or even educational reform itself. Assessment can be directly built into these new forms of teaching, reducing the reliance on traditional exams, which have been widely criticised for being a poor test of understanding.

“A collaboration between the universities and the industry will help in creating space for innovation, research and development” IbrahIm al ZubI, head of SuStaInabIlIt y, majId al fut taIm ProPertIeS

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Green education Sustainability Courses

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field work “A collaboration between the universities and the industry will help create space for innovation, research and development,” Al Zubi says. “It will unify the industry as well.”

Universities also encourage students to use real-life topics as the basis of their assignments.

“Many students also choose actual work-related issues for their dissertation topics. Some students have used a range of equipment to make field measurements in schools and other institutions such as commercial offices. Many have performed detailed analysis and studied potential improvement of existing buildings,” says Prof Abu-Hijleh of BUiD. “Faculty of Engineering & IT has advisory groups led by expert industry practitioners. They provide guidance and feedback on the industrial relevance of any new or existing programme. They also provide suggested list of research projects that the students can take up for their dissertation work,” he add.

Career oPPortunities Academic-degree programmes in sustainability not only build on the skills generated by discipline-based study, but make it possible to address the linkages between people in their social, natural, and built environment. Graduates and post graduates of sustainability programmes find potential opportunities in areas of environmental management, green construction, environmental auditing, corporate social responsibility and risk management.

In 2013, approximately 6.5m people were already employed in the renewable energy industry worldwide, a new study by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reveals.

“With the introduction of Estidama in Abu Dhabi and

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“A channel for proper sustainability education can lead to more job opportunities in the construction industry” Prof baSSam abu-hIjleh, atkInS ChaIr & dean of faCult y of engIneerIng and It, buId

the Green Building Regulations in Dubai, consultants are looking for professionals with the right mix of knowledge, skills and tools needed to comply with the new requirements.

We had several cases of students who moved to better jobs or got promoted in their own organisations once they graduated from our sustainability related programmes,” Prof Abu-Hijleh says.

The university also has a “CV bank” that it uses to introduce prospective employers to relevant students and this service is available for employers looking for both fulltime as well as part-time employees.

“A channel for proper sustainability education can lead to more job opportunities in the construction industry. At present, most of companies in the region rely on people with marketing or communication backgrounds with some onjob sustainability training,” Al Zubi of MAF Properties says.

More and more countries are recognising the importance of the academic programmes in sustainability, as the demand for professionals is increasing across sectors. In the GCC, new environmental regulations and long term strategies continue to emphasise the need for people with knowledge in the aforementioned areas.

01 Prof bassam abu-Hijleh, buid 02 ibrahim al Zubi, maf Properties

NOVEMBER 3, 2014 JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL, DUBAI Dubai’s strong belief in sustainability is reflected thorough initiatives such as the enforcement of the new Green Building regulation that aims at improving the performance of buildings.

At Bgreen’s Green Building Codes and Beyond seminar a panel of speakers will be discussing; IMPLEMENTING GREEN BUILDING REGULATIONS

Progress since the Green Building regulations came into effect

Positive response from the industry

Opportunities for suppliers, contactors and consultants

Challenges and solutions

Collaborations with global companies

BOOSTING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Technological innovations

Developments in building automation

Initiatives and campaigns

Existing laws and scope for amendments

Role of renewables and clean energy

Changing public mindset on conservation

WASTE MANAGEMENT

Where are we in comparison to the US and Europe with waste management?

What have we learned that we can use?

What new initiatives does this region offer the world?

Key thoughts on what may be in the future

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ConstruCtion Dubai Municipality

saa’fat: Dubai’s green vision Green Buildings Regulations in Dubai are not just about buildings, but also about the lifestyle of the community and how to live healthier 052

ConstruCtion Dubai Municipality

“Dubai Municipality is currently developing a green buildings rating system, which I believe will have a huge impact on new constructions in the emirate” Abdull Ah RAfiA , AssistAnt diRectoR GeneRAl of dubAi MunicipAlit y

Dubai achievements have been undoubtedly fascinating. it has grabbed the world’s attention with the most astonishing story of transformation – starting from a barren desert to constructing the world’s tallest building - and i am sure the best is yet to come. His Highness sheikh Mohammed Bin rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the uAE and ruler of Dubai, the mind behind the masterpiece that is Dubai, has encouraged creating a healthy and sustainable development, which is all about achieving a balance between economic development and environmental protection.

His vision has led to the creation of Dubai’s Green Buildings Regulations and Specification project, which is considered to be one of the most important pieces of legislation to be adopted by the government for protecting the environment, its natural resources as well as for ensuring the health and welfare of the people. The regulations were written after extensively researching and studying several international green building rating systems and adopting only those that suit the UAE’s environment, economy and culture.

Dubai’s Green Building Regulations and Specifications, which are now available on the Dubai Municipality website: www. dm.gov.ae, encourages all developers to build toward a greener tomorrow, safeguarding future generations and at the same time not having a negative impact on the occupant’s health. It addresses different aspects of green building design, starting from ecology, planning, building vitality, resources effectiveness in energy, water and material, and waste management. Dubai has included the environment as part of its general strategic plan - which includes a number of sub-plans, initiatives and projects - that aims to improve the environmental conditions in the emirate and reduce the energy consumption by 30% by 2030.

Hence in January 2011, as a first step towards implementing the strategy, Dubai Municipality made the Green Building Regulations and specifications mandatory for governmental buildings and voluntary for private ones. As of March this year, when a total of 44 green governmental buildings had been constructed, the Dubai Municipality took the second step towards implementing the strategy, and made the regulations mandatory for all new buildings. Within five months, by July 31, 2014, a total of 413 new buildings received green permits. The key targets of Dubai’s Green Building Regulations are to reduce the consumption of water and electricity, and reduce waste and CO2 emissions. This will be accompanied by a reasonable and controlled increment in costs, however future plans aim to completely prevent any additional costs vis-à-vis traditional projects. Further, to encourage

the community to be a part of the green buildings society and to go beyond the regulations and toward a greener future, Dubai Municipality is currently developing a green buildings rating system, details of which will be announced soon. This will have a huge impact on new constructions in Dubai.

There are also several books on green buildings that have been published by the Buildings Department at Dubai Municipality, which you can find online. The Green Building and Specifications book, which covers the regulations, is one of the first books to be published along with the Green Building Regulations and Specifications: Practice guide, which explains in depth how to implement them. Our third publication is the Green House book, which presents examples of how to apply the regulations in residential building so as to reduce energy consumption and produce a healthier environment. The last publication is the Green Materials Guide, which is our approved list of green materials and their suppliers.

Green buildings are a vital part of Dubai’s strategic plan to become a green city. The challenges presented by sustainable urban development are huge. Urban planning, transportation, infrastructure, quality of life, use of renewable energy are just a few of the many strategies we are working on to steer today’s urbanisation toward sustainability. Green buildings and green cities are a part of long-term national initiative to build a green economy in the UAE under the slogan: ‘A green economy for sustainable development’.

Through this initiative, the UAE aims to become one of the world leaders in sustainability, become a centre for the export of green products and technologies and maintain a sustainable environment to support long-term economic growth. Green Buildings Regulations and Specification in Dubai are not just about buildings, it is also about the lifestyle of the community and how to live healthier. As Dubai Municipality, it is our role to educate the public about why it is important to build green, and how to live a healthier and greener lifestyle. We, at Dubai Municipality, will continue to strive and work hard to make our city a green one, thereby achieving the wise vision of our leader, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

I personally encourage BGreen readers to take a look at the regulations and specifications and send their feedback to us, so together we can improve them and achieve our goals in making Dubai a sustainable city.

The author, Abdullah Rafia, is Assistant Director General of Dubai Municipality.

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ConstruCtion Green material

Material matters Building material manufacturers have the responsibility to reflect on the impact of their products on nature and mankind during the life span of a project, Raymond George, Managing Director, Soprema Middle East, tells BGreen

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ConstruCtion Green material

“In the future, manufacturers, designers and installers must unite and work together to help protect the environment by making sustainable development a priority” Raymond GeoRGe, manaGinG diRectoR, SopRema middle eaSt

Green buildings continue to gain prominence in the region, catalysing the demand for sustainable building materials.

Soprema Middle East, which specialises in waterproofing, roofing and insulation systems, is one such company offering eco-efficient products for the fast-growing construction industry.

How has the green building materials market progressed in the last few years?

The global trend for a “greener” tomorrow has created a vacuum for eco-efficient building materials that address the immediate needs of the builders. Additionally, stakeholders in the construction industry now try to conserve the interests of the future generations while producing environmentally sustainable buildings.

As a result, material manufacturers have the responsibility to reflect on the impact of their products on nature and mankind during the entire life span of a project (from construction to operations and demolition).

Are companies warming up to the fact that eco-efficient materials can be profitable in the long run? What is the rate of adoption?

Eco-Conception is a major driving force. Soprema created the ‘Eco Struction’ logo to identify its products, which are environmentally friendly. We have worked for over 20 years to reduce the impact of industrial activities on the environment and human health through the use of renewable resources.

The company’s R&D departments work in close collaboration with international private and public research laboratories to develop innovative solutions which meet and exceed industry requirements. The rate of adoption is greatly dependant on design specifications, which must take into account the issues of energy conservation, durability, optimal utilisation of raw materials and waste reduction.

To effectively recover a product and increase energy savings, durability and longevity, the following elements must be considered from the very beginning: good design, selection of quality materials and proper installation methods.

Will green materials lose out in the competitive market due to higher costs?

There is a long-term objective in designing a sustainable product, which is to keep the system in place for as long as possible, avoid dumping materials to a landfill and avoid using new materials.

The design of waterproofing systems and its estimates are based on energy savings, durability, and usage of raw materials. Specifically, a durable design features materials and details that extend or surpass the useful life span of a roof, for example, and are consistent with a sustainable resurfacing plan. Having the option of repairing or resurfacing the roof eliminates the need for replacing it and thereby reduces costs for building owners. More importantly, it enables the re-use of insulation, waterproofing membranes as well as other components.

What needs to be done by the government and the industry to catalyse the growth of green materials?

Dedication and commitment to prevent pollution, protect the environment and preserve health and safety is required.

We should not only aim to comply with all laws and regulations but also strive to surpass them.

This policy, which we believe is fundamental to achieving our objectives as an industry, is representative of our commitment. This is ambitious but essential to demonstrate the desire in each of us to improve our quality of life.

Could you tell us more about soprema’s sustainable manufacturing processes?

Soprema Group has always lead the way in sustainable manufacturing. We received the ISO 9001 certificate in 1996 and were the first company to be ISO 14001 certified in 1997. Our eco-friendly plants significantly reduce waste through innovations such as the recycling of manufacturing waste and using rainwater for the cooling of machinery.

Where possible, we replace unsustainable raw fossil fuel resources with sustainable natural ones or recycled materials. Our PNT containers use 75% recycled plastic bottles and 70% of our fibreglass containers use recycled glass. Up to 2,500 tonnes of recycled oil is used in our bitumen membranes.

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Spotlight on LED Dubai Supreme Council of Energy will focus on a new sustainability programme at Light Middle East Conference 2014

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EvEnt PrEviEw Light ME

“Dubai Road and Transport Authority will retrofit up to 75% of the city’s existing street lights with LEDs, while at the same time implement switch-off policy across the Emirate’s residential streets” Faisal Ali Hassan Rashid, Director of Demand Side Management, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy

Dubai is on track to meet its ambitious energy conservation goals, with projects underway to achieve up to 50% reduction in energy consumption for outdoor lighting by 2030, government officials say.

The sustainability push is driven by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) under the Dubai Outdoor Lighting Programme, which is part of the overarching Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 and its Demand Side Management segment.

Faisal Ali Hassan Rashid, Director of Demand Side Management at the DSCE, will shed light on the goals set under the programme and the means by which they will be achieved, when he delivers the opening presentation at the upcoming Light Middle East Conference.

Rashid said that the DSCE envisions a saving of up to 300Gwh of energy consumption by 2030 through a comprehensive programme of replacing current lighting systems with environmentally-friendly LED lamps, and a stringent switch-off policy which will minimise energy wastage in the Emirate.

The programme will see the Dubai Road and Transport Authority (RTA) retrofit up to 75% of Dubai’s existing street lights with LEDs, while at the same time implement a switch-off policy across the Emirate’s residential streets.

Meanwhile, lights at Dubai’s parks and public promenades are being limited to a six-hour usage period and will be totally replaced by LEDs and other environmentally-friendly lighting systems by 2030.

“The Dubai Outdoor Lighting Programme will deliver tangible electricity savings and introduce modern technology, thus making an integral contribution to ensuring the city’s sustainable future,” says Rashid.

“The programme is a part of Dubai’s Demand Side Management for the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, which aims to achieve a 30% reduction in energy by 2030 comparing to business as usual. So far, the switch-off initiative is being implemented in some of Dubai’s residential areas and is delivering savings. Installations of LED lights are also being piloted to determine modalities of implementation across the city,” he adds.

Taking place from November 3-5 at the Dubai International Convention Centre, the Light Middle East Conference is a feature of Light Middle East, a trade event for lighting design and technology in the region, which will present more than 275 exhibitors from over 25 countries.

The two-day summit will spotlight key issues affecting

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the regional lighting industry, featuring a high-powered panel of international and regional lighting experts sharing key insights on the way ahead for the industry.

Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt, the organiser of Light Middle East, says, “By providing a platform for leading lighting industry leaders and experts, the Light Middle East Conference along with Light Middle East play a significant role in promoting the overall development of the industry in the region.”

“As the Middle East gains in prominence as a global lighting market, it is important that industry-spanning events such as Light Middle East reflect the growing international trends across the region,” he adds.

Many of the top lighting manufacturers and consultants from across the world have already signed up for the threeday event, including Apollo Lighting, Artemide, Atex, Halophane, Hess, LG, Linea Light, Osram, Regiolux, Rovasi, Targetti, Trilux, and Martin by Harman.

European manufacturers Rovasi and Regiolux will introduce to the Middle East their range of energy efficient LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), a move that will be welcomed by many as regional governments continue to encourage the adoption of greener technology for infrastructure and construction projects.

Ingeborg Schmidt, Export Sales Manager at Germanbased Regiolux, said: “Over the last year, the main focus for Regiolux has been directed toward the development of new energy efficient LED equipped luminaries while extending our existing LED product range.

“We have already established strong business relationships in the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait over the last 30 years, and we now see increasing opportunities in other Middle East and African markets. Light Middle East is our gateway to these untapped markets.”

With wide support from industry associations and regional authorities, the event offers a comprehensive interactive platform for manufacturers, architects, designers, consultants, engineers, construction companies, hospitality industry professionals, government officials and more.

The solutions presented at the Light Insight Arabia Conference will be sought after at the exhibition. Over the last eight years, Light Middle East has been delivering the opportunity to generate business in the Middle East. About 250 companies from all over the world took part in the 2013 edition of the event to support their current business and to create new opportunities in this promising market.

EvEnt PrEviEw Light ME

Exhibitors in focus Booming GCC construction sector fuels growing international interest in region’s lighting fixtures market The GCC’s construction boom is fuelling international interest in the region’s fast-growing lighting market, as UK companies are set to make a strong presence at Light Middle East this year. According to market research firm Ventures ME, an estimated US$128.4bn worth of construction projects are underway across the Gulf region this year, ramping up demand for the commercial lighting fixtures sector.

Supported by the UK Lighting Industry Association, the UK Pavilion is participating at the three-day event for the first time since 2006, with 14 leading manufacturers on board, including Bri-Tek Technologies, BSS-LED, Danlers, Fern Howard, Illuma, Isotera, Iviti and Kosnic, LED-Flex, Light Emissions, Luxonic, Rasmi, Soraa, and DW Windsor.

Stealing the spotlight will be Light Emissions, which will introduce a range of architectural LED video displays to thousands of trade buyers. Peter Ed, Managing Director of the company talks about the growing market for sustainable lighting in the Gulf countries.

UAE, KSA shine bright in resurgent $2.5bn GCC lighting market The UAE and Saudi Arabia are at the forefront of a resurgent GCC lighting sector, with both countries accounting for 70% of the US$2.5bn regional market value in 2013, according to global consultancy firm Frost & Sullivan.

Fuelled by increased demand from the fully revived construction sector, the Gulf lighting fixtures market is expected to grow between 8-10% annually between 2014-2018, creating major opportunities for global manufacturers and designers to capitalise on renewed investment across the region.

“Given the large number of infrastructural and developmental projects currently underway with many more in the pipeline, the GCC and the wider Middle East regions represent a market of exciting potential and huge possibilities for the future,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt.

What are you exhibiting at Light ME this year?

We will be showcasing a range of LED video graphic screen systems which are designed to be built into interior design and architectural surfaces, such as walls, floors and ceilings. In particular, we are very excited about showing, for the first time ever, our exterior AirStrips, designed to be integrated into solar louvers, on the façade of buildings. I firmly believe that this could be of huge interest for the ecological design of buildings in the Gulf - just look at the building design in Masdar City.

Is there a focus on sustainable lighting?

Our graphic systems are interesting in that we provide LED visuals that range between lighting and full speed video. We use an LED technology over very large areas such as in shopping malls and airports.

The reduction in consumed energy impacts not only the cost of running the displays, but also the cost of providing and running extra air conditioning. I am particularly interested in is seeing the usage of solar power to run our screens to provide practically a zero ecological footprint.

With prestigious installations already in Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, we know that we have the local experience, and believe that we are perfectly positioned to participate in shaping the visual future in the Middle East.

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Soprema Middle East FZE P.O.Box 371013, Tel: +971 4 609 1661 Fax: +971 4 609 1662, info@soprema.ae

EnvironmEnt Climate Summit

on the frontline Ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris next year, here are nine women who are set to play a vital role in shaping the conversation and structure around a proposed emission reduction treaty

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EnvironmEnt Climate Summit

Women are more severely affected by climate change and natural disasters, but they are also the most capable of creating change and adaptation within their communities.

Studies suggest that women suffer higher death risk during natural disasters. Climate change leads to increased illness and disease and women are the primary caregivers for the sick. Water-related diseases alone kill over 2m people every year, most of them women and children.

The influence of women in the climate sector is profound, evident across most countries and all sectors. Ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, France next year, here are nine women who are set to play a vital role in shaping the conversation and structure around a proposed emission reduction treaty.

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LAUreNCe TUbiANA Laurence Tubiana has been appointed Special Representative of the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Laurent Fabius, at the UN Climate Change Conference 2015.

Tubiana will provide extensive expertise and vision to the negotiation team in preparing for Paris Climat 2015. Her work will focus on mobilising the full range of stakeholders to promote a ‘positive agenda’, to underline how the fight against climate change is not only crucial but offers potential major benefits in terms of growth, employment and quality of life.

“I am honoured by this appointment, given the contribution that Paris Climat 2015 can make” says Tubiana. This initiative is expected to benefit from her firm commitment and extensive experience in international negotiations over many years, notably as Director of the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations (IDDRI).

Tubiana is the Director of the Sustainable Development Centre at Sciences in Paris. She is also Professor of international affairs at SIPA, the School of International and Public Affairs at the University of Columbia in New York. Since September 2012, she has co-chaired the UN Leadership Council of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN).

ANgeLA MerkeL Angela Merkel has stressed her commitment to a tough UN climate change agreement in 2015, promising German and EU leadership over the next 12 months. She also pledged US$750m for the initial capitalisation of the UN’s new Green Climate Fund, which needs $15bn by the end of 2014.

“We have to be aware of what it will cost if we don’t act… every delay will cost – the Stern review has made that clear,” she says, referring to a 2006 UK government study on the future costs of climate change.

Merkel says it was up to the world’s major economies to take a lead on cutting carbon pollution and investing in green energy, complaining that “necessary decisions have been delayed”. She says the EU would deliver an ambitious climate and energy package by October this year, promising a “clear signal” to the rest of the world.

“We want to have a 40% reduction of greenhouse gases in the EU and an increase in the share of renewables by at least 27%,” she says, adding that she backs efforts to boost energy efficiency goals.

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EnvironmEnt Climate Summit

Merkel’s support for the 40% target is likely to be critical as the EU’s 28 member states renew negotiations on energy plans, with some eastern states opposed to the 40% goal. She also backed plans to reform the EU’s beleaguered emissions trading scheme, referring to an “enormous over-supply of allowances” which offered “little incentive right now to carry out reductions.”

A former environment minister who chaired the 1995 UN climate summit in Berlin, Merkel recently revealed that climate change would be a central part of Germany’s G7 presidency next year.

CoNNie HedegAArd Connie Hedegaard leaves her post as EU European Climate Commissioner later this year, but the fiery Dane has a critical part to play in securing the 2015 treaty she has fought for.

“The process needs to provide a substantial answer to global warming in two years to remain relevant,” she says. Even if it succeeds, it’s worth reconsidering whether the international confabs need to be held every year, and whether the scope of each session should be narrower, Hedegaard adds.

On behalf of Denmark, she hosted the 2009 UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. She was Danish Minister for Climate and Energy in the Cabinet of Anders Fogh Rasmussen III and that of Lars Løkke Rasmussen and had been the Danish Minister for the Environment from August 2004 to November 2007, as a member of the Cabinet of Anders Fogh Rasmussen I and II. Since 2007, Connie Hedegaard has been behind Denmark’s energy policies.

In April, she signed an action plan with India on renewable energy. One notable achievement was her role in introducing Denmark’s Energy Policy 2008–2011. The policy made her country the first in the world to commit to an overall energy reduction, not just a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

NAwAL AL HosANy Masdar City’s Director of Sustainability is the face of clean tech in the Middle East. In this role, she leads a team responsible for developing Masdar Sustainability Standards & Policies and sustainability auditing, monitoring and reporting. This is accomplished through diligent tracking of Masdar City’s carbon footprint, greenhouse gas emissions, and renewable energy supply and demand, as well as through monitoring of its sustainable practices and governance codes.

Her team also works to ensure the incorporation of TripleBottom-Line concepts into all aspects of Masdar City’s operations, to build more capacity for its engagement with the local community and international professional bodies, and to liaise with government authorities, schools and universities to drive the sustainability agenda in the UAE. Prior to this, Nawal held senior leadership positions in the General Headquarters of the Abu Dhabi Police, where she served as the head of Design and Studies in the Engineering Department and in 2007, became its first ever female Deputy Director.

Nawal has actively participated in Continuing Professional Development courses in order to keep at the forefront of the social science and sustainable development debates, as well remain updated on the latest project management methods, leadership, planning and decision-support mechanisms.

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EnvironmEnt Climate Summit

MArLeNe Moses Nauru’s UN ambassador is the current face of small island states, the conscience of the UN climate process. The 39-strong group represent countries that may soon disappear under the waves. That may be inevitable. Moses is charged with letting the world know it’s also unacceptable.

“Our concern is urgency in tackling climate change,” says Moses. “Vague promises will no longer suffice. As the international community continues to develop the post2020 climate change regime to be signed in Paris, it is important that we do not lose sight of the work we must do here and now.”

“First, is to lower greenhouse gas emissions in line with scientific recommendations in the short-term and, the second is to set the stage for an agreement ambitious enough to protect the most vulnerable people among us for generations to come,” she stresses.

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rACHeL kyTe Rachel Kyte runs the World Bank’s clean energy division, and together with president Jim Kim, she has led its transition away from its roots as a fossil fuel funder. Kyte wrote the investment standards for the Bank’s private arm – these have now been adopted by the UN’s Green Climate Fund – making her one of the architects of the clean revolution.

The current UN climate negotiations are ‘not good enough’, she says. “The future of forests, food security and climate are so closely bound that it is vital we develop a shared agenda,” says Kyte, World Bank Vice President for Sustainable Development. “If we continue to fund crop expansion on one hand and forest protection on the other, we simply waste taxpayer money and precious time.”

“Over the next 50 years, climate change could reduce food crop yields by 16% worldwide and up to 28% in Africa.

Increasingly frequent and devastating floods and droughts, together with longer-term temperature changes, already take a heavy toll on the people who can least afford it. The tasks before us are daunting and cannot be put off,” she adds. izAbeLLA TeixeirA Minister Izabella Teixeira is a career employee of the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama), which she joined in 1984 as an Environmental Analyst.

Over her 28 years as a civil servant, she has held several highlevel management and advisory positions in the federal area.

She took office as Minister of the Environment in 2010.

As a result of her notable performance representing the Brazilian government at the UN Climate Conference in Cancun and the UN Biodiversity Conference in Nagoya, she was invited by the UN Secretary-General to join, in 2010 and 2012, the High Level Panel on Global Sustainability, composed of authorities of another 12 countries. In September 2012, Minister Teixeira was nominated again by the UN Secretary-General to join the High Level Panel on Post-2015 Development, which will propose the new agenda to the UN General Assembly.

Minister Teixeira is continuously recognised as a bold and visionary leader who played a key role in the challenging feat of reversing the deforestation in the Amazon forest, as proven 05 Marlene Moses 06 rachel kyte 07 izabella Teixeira

EnvironmEnt Climate Summit

by the achievement of an 84% reduction in deforestation over the last eight years. From an annual loss of 27,772sqkm in 2004 to 4,571sqkm in 2012, this remarkable feat is a tribute to her courage to push against the tide of destruction and is a significant initiative from Brazil on climate change mitigation. Apart from the prevention and control of deforestation, the land use planning policies implemented by her resulted in 250,000sqkm of conservation areas or the equivalent of 75% of the global forest protected areas.

Her long-standing career in the service of the environment was positively marked by the successful hosting by Brazil of the Rio+20 (UN Conference on Sustainable Development) and the 2012 World Environment Day. Helle THorning-ScHmidT Earlier this year, Denmark’s Prime Minister Helle ThorningSchmidt accompanied UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon to the Arctic to explore the effects warming temperatures are having on the region. The country has consistently pushed for tougher EU climate laws – and recently passed its own legislation to reduce its emissions by 40% within 2020 “In order to establish global sustainability goals and tackle future challenges we need a strong international governance structure,” Thorning-Schmidt says.

During the past three decades the Danish economy has grown significantly while energy consumption has remained virtually constant. Since the 1980s, the share of renewable energy in final energy consumption has been steadily rising and now amounts to approximately 22%.

“Recently, we approved a new national energy strategy which entails a 34% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 (measured in 1990-levels) and provides for the construction of major new wind farms whose combined effect will be equivalent to the energy consumption of 1.5m Danish homes. Our goal is that Denmark’s energy consumption will be 100% renewable by 2050,” she says SHeikH HaSina Climate change is a huge issue for Bangladesh and there are reports that say that by the end of this century, a quarter of the country will be under water. First elected in 2009, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ‘gets’ climate change, according to local campaigners. Evidence can be seen in the country’s Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP), and two climate change funds worth half a billion dollars.

“Bangladesh is one of the worst victims of climate change while it contributes practically nothing to the emission of the greenhouse gases. Bangladesh’s share is only 0.02% at most of the global total. The country would face the adverse consequences of climate change in a way that her development will be arrested if the global community does not come forward to help her,” Hasina says.

“It is impossible for Bangladesh alone to take action against the rising sea level, as it has been a cumulative effect of global emission in which Bangladesh does not have any role. It is the responsibility of the global community to address this issue as urgently as possible. However, Bangladesh has developed its own strategy to fight the threat,” she adds.

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How green is my building?

It is evident that concrete jungles of the past are set to transform into green buildings of the future In today’s pro-green landscape, individuals are constantly urged to spare Mother Nature the brutality of their excesses, be it in consumption of natural resources or energy wastage. At the same time, our developed countries boast of entire concrete jungles that are equally degrading to the environment. Given the scenario, it is only natural perhaps that all our resources are now diverted towards achieving a green building infrastructure.

According to the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), an organisation that promotes and certifies

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sustainable building practices, key focal points in green buildings include: water efficiency, sustainable site design, energy performance, indoor environmental quality, material and resource conservation, transportation strategies and integration and innovation. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), buildings represent 32% of all energy consumption globally. In terms of primary energy consumption, buildings account for around 40% in most IEA countries including the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand and many European nations.

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Green buildings have today become a phenomenon across the globe with key players taking the lead in the green infrastructure revolution: the US, the UK, Germany, Norway, the UAE and Brazil. According to a 2013 survey of 62 countries by the World Green Building Council (WGBC), respondents were expecting 60% of their work to be green by 2015 as compared to 28% in 2012. It is evident that concrete jungles of the past are set to transform into green buildings of the future.

Green practices, although appealing for their reduced carbon footprint, are however conventionally considered expensive pursuits. Green buildings factor in several premium costs that deter firms from implementing them. Integrating modern technologies and sustainable materials can also attract hidden costs. However, green advocates insist the lifecycle benefits achieved reward initial investments multi-fold. Energy and water conservation greatly reduces

utility and maintenance bills, while decreased pollution levels and resource conservation promote the society’s health and well-being.

Countries have found plenty to benefit from the green building movement and businesses have found personal incentives in addition to achieving greater public service.

The WGBC survey showed that firms initially embraced green buildings to have a positive impact but, today, the concept has gained currency as a business opportunity. Both client and market demand demonstrate great enthusiasm for green buildings and ‘green’ is the new universal selling point.

Before embarking on a green building project, it is important to assemble an inter-dependent team with similar goals and ideas to avoid conflicts that can negatively impact the project. If the basic rule of project management is overlooked in a green building project, there is every risk of

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“Both client and market demand demonstrate great enthusiasm for green buildings and ‘green’ is the new universal selling point” Benoit Dubarle, Country President, Schneider Electric (UAE, Oman and Pakistan)

digressing from conservation and sustainability goals. An uninitiated project supervisor could use more resources than required just so that the work is completed faster. It is equally important that architects and designers with experience in green buildings are integrated into the team, as also consultant specialists to offer advice outside the team’s expertise.

Planning is crucial because eco-friendly goals must be aligned to economic feasibility. Goals can include water conservation, optimisation of sustainable site resources, efficient monitoring of transportation, and balancing good indoor environmental quality with comfort. USGBC’s certification system, Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) enlists specifications for firms to efficiently address their green goals.

An integrated building solution should be put in place at the design stage where distinct elements including natural daylight or ventilation are evaluated for their impact on other elements ahead of optimisation. Utilising recyclable and bio materials should also be considered. The construction phase is where building resources, materials and the efficiency of processes are really put to the test.

The rise of green buildings in recent years has led to the rise of dedicated firms offering sustainable building solutions.

It is crucial to purchase from the right one. The key components of green buildings are solar energy and energyefficient insulation.

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Solar energy can be harnessed through photovoltaic solutions like power conversion and electricity distribution systems, with accompanying monitoring and technical support. For example, an effective grid-tie solar inverter or a solar power conversion substation backed by a supportive monitoring control system will help effectively maintain and control the building’s natural lighting.

Good insulation mechanisms, like automatic insulation fault detectors and locators, reduce the heating and cooling loads of buildings, and help conserve energy. For HVAC (heat, ventilation and air-conditioning) systems that also regulate temperature and humidity conditions according to the external climate, superior sensors, thermostats and HVAC damper actuators can be used to monitor and reduce energy consumption, while maintaining comfortable indoor environmental quality.

Green technologies are not necessarily the cheapest but they are not prohibitively expensive either and a well-planned mix of technologies, materials and resources that accommodate cost ceilings can work out for the greater good.

Green buildings are already the present and have limitless potential for the future, both regionally and internationally.

With the UAE spearheading the green building movement in the GCC region, it is only a matter of time before other countries adopt the initiative and convert their extensive construction sectors into energy-saving hubs.

NETWORK Appointments

Network Schneider gets new head for Saudi, Yemen Mortaja is tasked to plan and implement strategies that further drive Schneider Electric’s growth

Energy management firm Schneider Electric has appointment Ziad Mortaja as Country President for its operations in Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

The firm has three manufacturing plants employing over 1,200 staff in the Kingdom. As part of his role, Mortaja is tasked to plan and implement strategies that further drive Schneider Electric’s growth, profitable revenue streams and market expansion.

“Schneider Electric’s long-term strategy is designed to achieve the sustainability goals of our clients. We adopt an interactive approach in designing energy efficient solutions that suit a cross-section of industries and verticals. Towards this priority, we work in collaboration with our clients to understand their sustainability requirements and help them identify, plan and execute the best energy-saving solution for their business needs,” Mortaja told BGreen.

“In Saudi Arabia, we have a dedicated team to work on client requirements understanding their energy needs and recommend solutions to reduce energy consumption, carbon footprint as well as costs,” he added.

Turhan Turhangil, Middle East and Turkey Zone President, Schneider Electric, said: “We are delighted to have Mortaja on board. He brings nearly three decades experience supported by an in-depth knowledge and expertise of working in Saudi Arabia.”

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Kazakh President appoints head of new energy ministry Kazakhstan has created a new super size energy ministry as its economy suffers from the shutdown of a giant oilfield and the collapse of exports to Ukraine and sanctions-hit Russia.

President Nursultan Nazarbayev recently appointed 65-year-old close ally Vladimir Shkolnik, a two times former energy minister, to head the former oil and gas ministry combined with the industry and new technologies ministry and the environmental protection ministry.

Until recently, Shkolnik was in charge of national uranium company Kazatomprom.

Oman’s Tasneea appoints new Group CEO Dr Amer bin Awadh al Rawas comes with extensive experience in the oil and gas sector Tasneea Oil and Gas Technology, a specialised company in the design and manufacturing of products and equipment used in the extraction of oil and gas, has appointed Dr Amer bin Awadh al Rawas as the Group CEO. The company has various subsidiaries responsible for manufacturing products such as chemical materials and oil field equipment.

Tasneea is also involved in the research and development of technology for the energy sector.

Dr Al Rawas carries with him extensive experience in various sectors, mainly telecom, Oil and Gas and academic. In 2002, he moved to the largest telecom company in the Sultanate, Omantel to become the Managing Director of Oman Mobile, and later the chief executive of Omantel in 2009.

DIARY DATES Events & conferences

Diary dates Distinguished Sustainability Lecture Series Jeddah Intercontinental Hotel, Saudi Arabia September 9

United Technology Corporation has organised the 3rd Distinguished Sustainability Lecture Series that aims to promote green building opportunities in a region known for having one of the world’s highest per capita consumption rates of electricity.

The series brings together brands such as, Otis, Carrier and Kidde, in a collaborative programme with international universities and communities.

The event will witness over 350 delegates, which includes government officials and industry experts, coming together to discuss various green building advancements and solutions in the region.

MEED’s Dubai Clean Energy Forum Address Hotel, Dubai Mall, UAE September 22–24 The first MEED Dubai Clean Energy Forum organised in association with Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) will be the definitive event for all those seeking to participate in the Emirate’s drive toward reducing energy consumption through the use of solar and clean energy to meet the 2030 energy challenge.

The conference will showcase the action DEWA is taking to adopt cuttingedge technologies and managerial practices to ensure that every project delivered as part of Dubai’s Integrated Energy Strategy and the preparations for the Expo 2020 will reach the highest energy standards. It will showcase Dubai’s ambitious solar, clean coal and renewable energy programmes.

Sustainable Design & Construction Middle East Summit Dubai, UAE October 19-22 Dubai’s successful bid for Expo 2020 has pushed the bar higher for green efficiency not only in the UAE, but across the Gulf.

At the Sustainable Design & Construction Middle East Summit and during its special Façade and HVAC Focus Days, sustainable construction experts will discuss key trends and innovations taking place in the field, and how this will impact the future of construction.

EGBC Annual Congress Dubai, UAE October 20-21 The third Annual Congress of Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC), an independent forum aimed at conserving the environment by strengthening and promoting green building practices, will be held under the theme, ‘Sustainable Cities of the Future’.

It will be held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the UAE Minister of Public Works.

Stakeholders representing the entire building industry supply chain including highranking government officials as well as educationalists and sustainability experts from across the region will attend the Congress.

Several eminent international subject experts will present technical papers.

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RECRUITMENT Sustainability vacancies

Sponsored by

Recruitment Green Building experts in high demand Following the implementation of Estidama and its PRS in Abu Dhabi, Dubai Municipality announced earlier this year that a set of new Green Building Regulations will be made mandatory for all new projects in the emirate.

This confirms and amplifies the growing momentum toward greener standards in

the GCC construction sector with other notable changes being the 2014 green decree from the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment of Saudi Arabia along with the initiatives of the QGBC and the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development in Qatar. The consequences are already noticeable in the job market with a range of consultants

recognising the strategic importance of having a range of suitably skilled staff. It is also encouraging to see an increased demand for Energy Management Specialists to retrofit existing building stock. It’s just the beginning...

Jean-Maxime Long, Managing Director of sustainability recruitment consultancy firm Allen & York

SuStainability VacancieS from allen & york environmental lead Saudi Arabia Opportunity for an experienced expatriate to take the lead environmental management, compliance and review role for a portfolio of industrial sites and operations based in the Eastern province of KSA. technical risk and Safety manager UAE We are looking for an experienced consultant with good client facing skills and business acumen. The role will involve juggling business development alongside the technical delivery of existing client requirements. This is

an exciting and challenging position with a well reputed organisation. technical Service manager, Water Qatar An international marketleading manufacturer of water management products is looking to employ an experienced civil engineer to play a key role partnering with the consultant design teams and contractors for key infrastructure projects.

Senior Sustainability consultant Dubai The Dubai team of a bespoke sustainability

consulting practice is looking to appoint an experienced consultant to manage a number of flagship building projects. business Development manager, Waste GCC We are looking to hire an experienced manager to coordinate the individual activities of teams on the ground in UAE, Oman, KSA & Qatar to generate sales with both public & private sector clients.

Director of engineering - Photovoltaic UAE Allen & York are working

with a young, dynamic, and forward thinking solar EPC who are fast becoming recognised as a market leader in their field owing to their range of projects. We are looking for a young and ambitious, exceptionally gifted solar PV expert to lead their growing team and build on their current momentum and successes. operations manager fm company Qatar Allen & York are looking for an experienced Facility Manager reporting to the GM to manage the operations of a large and growing FM company in Qatar.

to apply to any of these vacancies please visit: www.allen-york.com or contact our middle east office at: +971 (0)4 446 9828 email: middle-east@allen-york.com To advertise your vacancies please contact Junaid Rafique on +971 4 375 5716 or junaid.rafique@cpimediagroup.com

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EnErgy and WatEr Leak detection and prevention GREEN PERSONALITY Gisele Bündchen

Eco ambassador The eco-friendly supermodel is no stranger to spreading her love for the Earth Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bündchen has shown concern over environmental matters in the past, and more recently she has been involved in a campaign to raise awareness about water use.

Bündchen has also dedicated a part of her website to environmental issues. She launched a “green” blog in 2008 with the aim of “reflecting on socio-environmental issues that we can do something about.” In May 2009, she co-hosted the Rainforest Alliance’s annual gala to honour leaders in sustainability.

Bündchen has supported a variety of causes, including clean water initiatives, environmental sustainability, and preservation of South American rainforests. In 2007, she took part in eBay Giving Works, a programme dedicated to charity listings and online auction for the WWF, with 100% of the proceeds going to the World Wildlife Fund’s global conservation initiatives, especially those involved in the fight against climate change.

She appeared on the cover of US magazine American Photo in 2008 to promote her Forests of the Future project for the reforestation of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The initiative, which was set up with SOS Mata Atlantica in 2004, has planted over 1m new trees in Bündchen’s name to start reforestation of the Brazilian rainforests.

Bündchen was named Harvard’s Global Environmental Citizen in recognition in 2011 of her eco-efforts.

She was awarded Greenest Celebrity at the 2011

International Green awards at the National History Museum of London. Each year the Green Awards honours a celebrity who has been the most creative and innovative in the approach of sustainability of the environment. An online public vote took place and Bündchen was the winner, beating Paul McCartney and Miguel Bose.

On September 20, 2009, she was designated Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). In January 2012, Bündchen made her first official visit to Africa as UNEP Goodwill Ambassador.

The supermodel chooses a different charity each year to which proceeds of sales from her sandals are donated. The 2011 donation went to ISA – the Socio-environmental Institute.

In January 2012, Bündchen visited Kenya on a goodwill mission to improve energy poverty. She spent a day with a family in a village in Kisumu County and helped them with tasks such as carrying firewood to their hut – while discussing the dangers of using firewood inside homes that do not have energy. She danced with the locals and visited various homes, as well as teaming up with UK NGO Practical Action during the course of her stay.

On the eve of World Environment Day Bündchen went to Rio de Janeiro to plant the first of a series of 50,000 trees in a degraded area.

Earlier this year, Bündchen joined the Rainforest Alliance board of directors.

Bündchen has supported a variety of causes, including clean water initiatives, environmental sustainability, and preservation of South American rainforests

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EnErgy and WatEr Leak detection and prevention GREEN PERSONALITY Gisele B端ndchen

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COMMENTARY Naji El Haddad

Naji El Haddad We must transform our carbon-intensive world into one that thrives on renewable energy

A new age of post carbon industrial growth Across the region, the evidence is that a post-carbon era points to growth, jobs and prosperity Later this month, leaders and political decision makers will convene for the UN Climate Summit in New York.

Tasked with making commitments to policy measures that dramatically reduce the impact of industrialisation on our environment, we enter a daunting period of hard negotiations between nations with differing vested interests. And yet away from the negotiating table, the world continues to move closer to realising the transformative opportunity a post-carbon world offers.

Dialogue can seem pedestrian at times when action is imperative. While the Climate Summit will focus on the effects of global warming on economic and social development, a parallel conversation among technologists, innovators and thought leaders is focused increasingly on the dawn of a new golden age of growth.

The Middle East and North Africa has become part of that conversation. From Morocco to Oman and everywhere in between, the evidence is that a post-carbon era points to growth, jobs and prosperity. Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar, Morocco and UAE are investing in renewable energy projects – the latter both at home and abroad – to secure future energy supplies and capitalise on the economic opportunity.

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), a six-day government-backed initiative hosted by Masdar, is playing a critical role that process. As a platform that fosters a holistic conversation about sustainability in way that promotes coinnovation and collaboration, ASDW is redefining the UAE’s role in the global sustainability conversation. It is testament to the vision of a nation that would seemingly have much to

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lose from the process, but has made a conscious decision to compete for a share of post-carbon future.

As Jeremy Rifkin – celebrated architect of post-carbon economic strategies – points out in his book The Third Industrial Revolution, the world today is faced with a chance, not simply to address the triple challenge of economic prosperity, energy security and climate change, but capitalise on it. To achieve this, we must transform our carbon-intensive world, in to one that thrives on renewable energy and is smart about the way it utilises natural resources.

This process will be facilitated by futuristic ‘Internet of Things’ era – where our domestic appliances, homes, cars, public places, schools and hospitals, are connected to one another in real time via the Internet, sharing energy and drawing power from a digital grid only when needed. That future is within our grasp. We are even seeing evidence of it at purpose-built smart, low-carbon urban developments like Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, or retrofitted smart cities like Vienna.

These technology-led initiatives, complemented by critical thinking, can lead us to this new era of growth. We are – and must continue to – power our new energy future from the ground up.

The author, Naji El Haddad, is Show Director of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) - an event dedicated to renewable energies, energy efficiency and clean technologies. Hosted by Masdar, WFES 2015 will be held at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, from 19 - 22 January.

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We create chemistry that makes compost love plastic.

Most plastics don’t biodegrade, but ecovio® plastics from BASF disappear completely when composted in a controlled environment. Using compostable bags for collection of organic waste makes disposal more hygienic and convenient. Rather than ending up in landfills, the waste is turned into valuable compost. When the plastic bag you use today can mean a cleaner future for the environment, it’s because at BASF, we create chemistry.

www.wecreatechemistry.com