Gen magazine september interactive

September Issue 9 2015 September Issue 9 2015

W W W. Z I W I R A . C O M

BUILDING A GREEN FUTURE

SUSTAINABLE

EXCLUSIVE

THE CHANGE INITIATIVE

INSIGHTS FROM

IRENA + DUBAI CARBON See how they are leading the UAE to a cleaner future

Dubai’s most sustainable establishment

BIOFUELS Middle East

COOKING UP A SOLUTION TO A RAPIDLY DECLINING SOURCE OF ENERGY www.ziwira.com

2

BUSINESS

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September Issue 9 2015

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CONTENTS

September Issue 9 2015

BUILDING A GREEN FUTURE

CONTENTS

30

32

ZIWIRA SEPTEMBER 2015

COVER STORY

22 BIOFUELS

source of energy.

Kenya may be a small country, but with a popu-

ENTERTAINMENT

FEATURE

50 Film: The Worthy Emirati film director Ali Mostafa’s latest endeavor is an action/thriller about a futuristic war fuelled by water shortage.

52 Game of Climate Change?

TRAVEL 54 Swimming with Giants in the Philippines

probably realise after reading this article.

back community, Oslob has become a prime spot for tourists to swim with whale sharks - but is it ethical?

28 Chinese Yulin festival This spine-chilling piece on the ruthless Yulin festival of China exposes the dogs facing terrifying cruelty at the hands of humans.

There is an undeniable link between Game of

With stunning tropical weather, and a friendly laid-

32 Kenyan’s Innovative Solar Lamp expels the need for Kerosene

Cooking up a solution to a rapidly declining

Middle East

COVER STORY

HEALTH

22 Biofuels in the Middle East

Thrones and Climate Change that you would

30 The Urban Yogi

their extinction.

and CEO of The Urban Yogi, a sustainable homeware store in Dubai.

INTERVIEW 34 Keeping a Tab on Carbon Ivano Iannelli, CEO of Dubai Carbon talks about their projects, COP21, monetization of carbon dioxide, and more…

BUSINESS 18 Dubai’s Most Sustainable Establishment

luxurious, island-style hospitality, all the while remain-

community, education, sustainability, and well-

ing ecologically sound.

being in Dubai.

Camry (hybrid), which has taken the UAE by storm by means of taxis.

41 A close encounter with the i8 hybrid

46 How the Barbary Lions Went Extinct Human fascination with the beauty and prowess

The Palm Sofitel in Dubai speaks volumes in terms of

In the Auto section, we present a story on the Toyota

WILDLIFE

LIFESTYLE

The Change Initiative is a facility that represents

38 UAE embraces the lucrative hybrid taxi market

to the African nation’s continuation.

of these lions may just have been the cause of

An interview with Nisha Varman Shetty, Founder

56 Green hospitality amidst the elegance of the Palm Jumeirah

AUTO

lation of 44 million, healthy living is imperative

56

52

ECO-TECH 42 The Environmental Impact of the Digital World In the global race for technological advancement,

GREEN SPORTS 44 Top Scores for Green NBA Initiatives The NBA along with the Green Sports Alliance, have brought positive change by means of environmental initiatives.

GREEN CELEB 48 Robert Redford addreses Climate Change Actor and activist Robert Redford recently visited the United Nations to address the UN’s High-Level Meeting on Climate Change.

a dirty footprint has been left on the environment.

ENERGY 14 Insights from IRENA

LOCAL 12 An admirable cause that’s close to home

Following our review of the impeccable BMW i8 in

The organization recently opened its official head-

Monja Wolf’s Monyati Initiatives is now set to

our April Issue, BMW invited ZIWIRA to attend the

quarters in Abu Dhabi and now operates from a

improve the lives of struggling rural UAE resi-

BMW Club Event at the AGMC Showroom.

fully-fledged sustainable building.

dents, in an admirably sustainable fashion.

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6

POEM

September Issue 9 2015

BUILDING A GREEN FUTURE

Life The Way It Should Be

Publisher Ziwira

EDITORIAL

CEO and Founder Adam Merza

As the world becomes aware of the limited and depleting natural petroleum resources,

adam@ziwira.com

UAE prepares to shift its ever expanding food and restaurant industry to produce bio-

Editorial Saba Khan saba.khan@ziwira.com

diesel, a healthier alternative to petroleum. I know it sounds strange, but the leftover cooking oil found in tremendous amounts in almost all the eating joints, can be useful rather than be a health hazard and drain blocker. Our cover story this month explores the huge potential of biofuels and its production.

Nasreen Rasool

Tell me what do you see Purple, green, and gold, Mountain peaks that touch the sky Little black birds flying by

nasreen.rasool@ziwira.com Zane Small zane.small@ziwira.com Imran Khan imran@ziwira.com

Nadir Khan

Fall is coming near Cold weather’s on its way, Flowers start to die Birds go south, bye bye.

sounds disgusting but also underlines the double standards of the population following the tradition. Read the complete story about the fiesta on page 28.

From setting up a sustainable rickshaw business in Madagascar to building new homes of struggling rural UAE residents, in an admirably sustainable fashion. Turn to page 12 to see what this amazing organization has done.

nadir.khan@ziwira.com +971 56 7481747

Celebrities are an integral part of raising awareness and implementing change in the world. Actor Robert Redford, who is also a fierce advocate for the environment, recently

Design Asif Habib asif.habib@ziwira.com

Tell me what do you see The sky starts to fade as night approaches Animals will soon come out The spring is ending without a doubt

thought of slaughtering and grilling dogs to satisfy the devouring taste buds not only

for poor families in Brazil, Monja Wolf’s Monyati Initiatives is now set to improve the lives Marketing

Sun setting in the west Flowers in the east, Calm, relaxing breeze And forests filled with trees

The spine-chilling Chinese Yulin Dog Meat Festival gives me goosebumps. The mere

Fahad Balabhai fahad@ziwira.com Head Office

visited the United Nations where he addressed the UN Assembly’s High-Level Meeting on Climate Change. See what he had to say on page 48.

In the Auto section, we present a story on the Toyota Camry (hybrid), which has taken the UAE by storm by means of taxis. We checked out the release event where Al-Futtaim Motors handed over an additional 55 Toyota Camry’s to Cars Taxi. Check out the interview with Abdulla Sultan Al Sabbagh, CEO of Cars Taxi Group on page 40.

Techno Hub Building,

Hotels are fun. You can take long showers with insane water pressure while indulging in

Office No. 161-162,

all kinds of miniature plastic bath products, in a room heated to whatever temperature

PO Box No. 341171,

your skin pleases... all part of the hotel experience. These hotel perks rest on the cosmic

Dubai Silicon Oasis, UAE.

amount of waste created by the hospitality industry. Catch up with Rohit Salunke, Direc-

USA Office

tor of Engineering, Sofitel, The Palm, Dubai in an exclusive interview where he speaks volumes on the initiatives that makes Sofitel the greenest hotel in Dubai.

Ziwira Inc. 445 Park Avenue 9th Floor

I invite you to share your thoughts, ideas and experiences with me on how you “go green” in every capacity of your life. I look forward to hearing from you!

New York City

Tell me what do you see Happiness, love, and beauty, Everyone is free Life the way it should be.

New York 10022 United States of America Canada Office Ziwira Inc. Toronto, Canada

© Copyright 2015 Ziwira. All rights reserved.

By TAYLOR JORDAO

No part of this publication can be reproduced in parts, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in

Saba Khan E D I T O R

@ZIWIRA

any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher.

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8

CEO

September Issue 9 2015

14 – 16 SEPTEMBER 2015 10:00 - 18:00

TEAM

DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

INTERNATIONAL SOLAR & PV EXHIBITION RAW MATERIAL. COMPONENTS. TECHNOLOGY.

THE INTERNATIONAL SOLAR EVENT TO ATTEND 3

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OF SOLAR INNOVATION

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OF SOLAR EXPERTS AT GLOBAL SOLAR LEADERS SUMMIT

REGISTER ONLINE FOR YOUR FREE ENTRY www.gulf.solar

Adam Merza

PREMIUM SPONSOR

STRATEGIC SPONSOR

ENDORSED BY

CEO & FOUNDER

www.ziwira.com

I initiated this company to bring life to my vision of a healthier future for our world and the impending generation. My hope is that these magazines will inspire you to adopt a healthier, sustainable lifestyle, and appreciation of this incredible planet that we call home.

“

“

KNOWLEDGE PARTNER

INDUSTRY PARTNER

CO-LOCATED WITH

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE ORGANISERS OF

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10

NEWS & EVENTS

September Issue 9 2015

AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT BLOCKS ADANI COAL MINE IN QUEENSLAND GULFSOL: 14-16 SEPTEMBER – DUBAI

Due to an uproar of environmental concerns, the Federal Court of Australia overturned government approval for Indian company Adani’s giant coal mines.

The Carmichael Mine, approved by the government in 2014, would have been one of the world’s largest coal mines. On August 4, the court said that the Environment Minister had failed to heed advice about threats to vulnerable wildlife species. The decision means that the mine cannot legally operate until fresh

This month, Dubai will host GulfSol, an event

approval is granted, according to Sue Higginson, the Principal Solicitor for the

dedicated to the solar industry, showcasing

Environmental Defenders Office in New South Wales. “The law requires that

the very latest solar thermal and photovoltaic

the Minister consider these conservation advices so that he understands the

technologies available in the region. The

impacts of the decision that he is making on matters of national environmental

showcase, held at the Dubai World Trade

significance, in this case the threatened species,” she said. Adani, which has

Centre from 14-16 September, will be the

struggled to get financial backing for the project, had also won earlier approval to build a new coal port terminal on the Queensland coast to support exports from the mine. The project would have dug up and exported about 60m tonnes of coal a year, mostly to India. Environmentalists and reef scientists said work

WORLD’S FIRST ELECTRIC DOUBLE DECKER BUS WILL SET OFF IN LONDON

second edition of GulfSol in Dubai, which is currently organized by DMG Events, producers of The Big 5 & Adipec. Visitors can attend the workshop and also register as a delegate in the Global Solar Leaders’

on the port could damage the nearby Great Barrier Reef.

BUILT-IN CAMERAS COULD OFFER VALUABLE PROTECTION TO ENDANGERED RHINOS

NEW FUEL PRICES FOR UAE DRIVERS

London’s iconic Double Decker Bus is receiving a makeover and becoming

Summit – a high level summit bringing

fully electric. The city’s well known bus Route 16 to Victoria Station is going

together senior government officials and

to get the world’s first fleet of double-decker electric buses on a trial basis.

private sector stakeholders from across

The new double-deckers are slated to begin service in October 2015. The

the MENA region to debate the region’s

London transportation agency TFL (Transportation for London) has already

solar future. The lineup includes esteemed

launched the next iteration of its iconic Routemaster double-decker bus as

individuals such as H.E. Saeed Mohammed

a low-emission diesel-electric hybrid, and the all-electric venture launches

Al Tayer, Managing Director & CEO of

the double-decker into ultra-low emission territory. TFL partnered with Chi-

DEWA, and H.E. Hussain Nasser Lootah,

nese electric bus manufacturer ByD. So far, the company has manufactured

Director General of Dubai Municipality.

more than 5,000 electric buses, which, as of April 2015, have logged more

Topics to be discussed include how the

than 50 million miles of service. Altogether, the buses have been tested out

government is attracting large-scale solar

in more than 150 cities. According to London Mayor Boris Johnson, who

investments, how distributed solar power

announced the new double-decker, “Many believed that a purely electric

generation contributes to overall renewables

double-deck bus would not be possible due to the size of battery packs re-

generation, and how we can optimize energy

quired to power it. However, by working with BYD and utilizing the latest cut-

infrastructure and accelerate renewable

ting edge technology, London has been able to secure another world-first.”

energy integration. Don’t miss it!

The removal of fuel subsidies in the UAE officially came into effect last month. The price of fuel went

SOCIAL MEDIA ERUPTS OVER THE KILLING OF CECIL THE LION

A British team has developed a system to help protect wild rhinos that

from 1.72 per liter on 31 July to 2.14 per liter on 1

could be extinct within the next ten years, because they are hunted

August. This 20 percent increase applies to 95 oc-

by poachers for their lucrative horns. By using a combination of GPS

tane gasoline, or “Special” as it is more commonly

trackers, heart rate monitors, and hidden cameras, wardens can be

known by motorists. The UAE Ministry of Energy said

Mass controversy surrounds the recent death of Cecil, one of

lion. “To my knowledge, everything about this trip was legal and

on site to foil an attack within seconds. Cameras are embedded inside

in a statement that the change will not only boost the

the oldest and most famously beloved lions in Zimbabwe. The

properly handled and conducted,” he said in a statement on the

the horn of the rhino, in what researchers say is a painless procedure.

economy but will also help to curb fuel consumption,

lion was killed by American dentist James Palmer, without a per-

Star Tribune website. Hunter Theo Bronkhorst and Honest Ndlo-

They hope it will be a key weapon in the fight against poaching. “You

save on natural resources and reduce carbon emis-

mit, having paid $50,000 to two guides. The lion was reportedly

vu, a private game park owner, will face poaching charges in

need to catch the poacher red-handed, and that’s what we’re setting

sions. Residents are now encouraged to purchase

lured out of Hwange National Park using bait, and then wound-

Hwange for implementing the lion’s killing. Investigations show

out to do, and that’s what we can do,” said Dr. Paul O’Donoghue.

cars that are lighter on fuel, and to make more regu-

ed by use of a crossbow, and not actually killed until 40 hours

the killing of Cecil was illegal because the land owner was not

The BBC gave him a unique opportunity to trial the camera concept

lar use of public transport. The UAE is the first coun-

after the shot, according to Johnny Rodrigues, Chairman of

allocated a lion on his hunting quota for 2015, Zimbabwe Parks

in South Africa. A hole is drilled into the rhino’s horn, and a camera is

try in the entire Persian Gulf to remove transport fuel

Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force. Palmer has since received

and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) and ZCTF said in

inserted. “It’s basically a burglar alarm for rhinos,” says O’Donoghue.

subsidies, a move which is perfectly in line with the

a huge wave of criticism on social media for killing Cecil. He

a statement. “Therefore, all persons implicated in this case are

With this new technology, rangers will no longer have to remain onsite

country’s vision to become a world leader in clean

says he hired several professional guides who secured permits

due to appear in court facing poaching charges,” the conser-

as much, as poachers also pose a threat to them.

energy and sustainability.

for his bow hunting trip, and now deeply regrets shooting the

vationists said.

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12

LOCAL

September Issue 9 2015

AN ADMIRABLE CAUSE THAT’S CLOSE TO HOME… The United Arab Emirates has recently been voted the 5th most efficient government in the world by the World Economic Forum. Our country has an excellent reputation as a luxurious travel destination that treats its high expatriate population gracefully. However, even in developed countries like the UAE, there will always be those who struggle. India and Germany based Monyati Initiatives, has seized an opportunity to help out struggling rural UAE residents, in an admirably sustainable fashion.

SOLAR ENERGY FOR RURAL UAE Monyati Initiatives, they decided to implement a project to say “thanks”. The project was to provide solar power for rural families in the UAE – especially since there is an absolute abundance of sunlight in the Gulf Region.

MONYATI INITIATIVES

G

“

families by enhancing their infra-

“Most of our team have lived in the UAE for a many years

structure; and to nurture a compas-

and we are excited about giving something back to the

Madagascar, Mexico, Nepal, Pakistan,

founded Monyati Initiatives in

and Sudan. Recent projects include one

2009. Monja lived in the Middle

in Pakistan, where Monyati provided

Our aim with this project is threefold:

East since 2007, previously working in

sewing machines and equipment for the

To protect the UAE’s environment by

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR),

setup of a vocational sewing center for

using natural energy; to help rural

supported by UNICEF GCC, Just Giving,

women in Kashmir. In Brazil, Monyati

and the yunus Centre in Bangladesh. She

provided funding for the construction of

established Monyati Initiatives as a non-

11 low-cost houses for families in favelas

profit social development organization

near Sao Paulo, and offered 9 students

to support communities in need. The

from universities in the UAE to travel to

word monyati translates to the Arabic

Brazil to help the beneficiary families in

meaning of “a wish that is close to your

the construction of these new homes. In

heart”. Regardless of religious or cultural

Kyrgyzstan, Monyati provided running

background, Monyati Initiatives focuses

water for more than 2,500 children,

The organization has already rolled out the first pilot

on

partnership

teachers and janitors from 9 schools in

project. 19 volunteers came forward to install the first

with social organizations and socially

rural areas. Furthermore, the organization

solar panels at farms near Mirfa, Abu Dhabi, which turned

committed corporations, to fund and

provided beds for the Little Flower Mercy

out to be a great success. Utilizing nature for positive

execute projects in emerging markets

Home near Kochi in Kerala, India, and

change is powerful and sustainable. For this phase,

across

supported the Shibashi slum school

Monyati plans to support more than 50 farmers. One solar

in Dhaka, Bangladesh for a period of

park costs approximately AED 550, so they kindly ask for

2 years. This support covers all of the

donations to help support the admirable cause. Join them

From 2009, the organization has funded

yearly expenses such as rent, salaries

and be part of the movement! Visit www.monyati.com or

and executed 14 projects in Bangladesh,

for teachers, school material supplies,

Brazil, Ethiopia, Haiti, India, Kyrgyzstan,

and school management expenses.

globally

education

in

and

Monja

fan, and mobile charger unit – all of which is currently

Wolf

working

national

provide them with solar parks, which entail two lights, a

infrastructure

sectors.

“

erman

The project aims to reach out to farmers in rural UAE and

sionate spirit within the country.

not available to them. This will prove to be extremely beneficial for farmers conducting business with partners from the city centers, and enable them to plan more efficiently, and live comfortably.

“

Funding for the panels and equipment has come from private donors and we always welcome support. Hopefully, once we complete this initial phase we can then move on, expanding to help hundreds more farmers. But for doing so we need support from private donors, as well as from members of the public who volunteer to help out.

“

In appreciation for the support extended by the UAE to

community,” said Ms. Wolf. “We felt there was a need, perhaps more so in some of the rural areas, where we could be of help. Many people may not be aware, but if you drive around the country you will notice these small farms dotted around the countryside.”

info@monyati.com for more details on how you can make MONJA WOLF

a difference.

Founder of Monyati Initiatives

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14

ENERGY

September Issue 9 2015

INSIGHTS

FROM IRENA

Dolf Gielen DIRECTOR OF IRENA INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGy CENTRE

We spoke to two experts at the International Renewable Energy Agency about the recent Energy workshop and the future of renewables.

Q: It’s been said again and again that renewables will not

by Nasreen Rasool

affect economic growth. Does IRENA have any tangible figures to show this or examples of countries that have made the transition without negative impact on economic growth?

There are many examples of this across the globe. Take Sweden for example. It has the ambitious goal to achieve a fully climate neutral society by 2050 and is on track to meet this goal. Thanks to national policies, Sweden has achieved a 23 per cent emission reduction since 1990 and their GDP has risen 60 percent during that same period. It is a compelling example that suggests renewable energy does not stand in the way of economic growth. Sweden’s dependency on fossil fuel has been reduced by half, and they are now one of the most renewable energy-dependent economies in the world. The IRENA REmap analysis also shows a positive socio-economic cost-benefit balance for accelerated renewables deployment across the 26 largest economies.

Q: What kind of changes would you personally like to

The new IRENA headquarters in Abu Dhabi.

I

Q: After 34 years, how has the International Energy

see, whether in government policies or private sector

Workshop grown as an event and how has the content

involvement, or anything to spur on a growing market in

changed?

renewable energy?

t’s been a big year for the International Renewable Energy

The event featured plenary and parallel sessions, during which

The first IEW was a relatively small event, organized in California

Great progress is being made in renewable energy, but more

Agency (IRENA).

The organization recently opened its

nearly 100 papers were presented on topics including climate

in 1981. Since then, it has grown in size, scope and geographic

action is needed, and quickly. By 2030, a world population of

official headquarters in Abu Dhabi and now operates from

change mitigation and adaptation, economics of renewable

location, being held in Europe, Asia, Africa and now the Middle

8 billion people will demand 60 per cent more electricity than

a fully-fledged sustainable building. It also held its 34th edition

energy sources, co-linkages of climate, air pollution and energy

East. This year’s conference, hosted by IRENA in Abu Dhabi,

today. IRENA estimates that an investment of USD 650 billion

of the International Energy Workshop (IEW) in Abu Dhabi from

security, energy and economic growth in emerging economies,

was the first in the conference’s 34-year history to be held in

per year – roughly double today’s investment levels – is needed

3-5 June. This was the first IEW to be hosted by the Middle East

and energy poverty alleviation. This year’s workshop focused on

the Middle East. In doing so, the IEW community strengthened

to meet future demand safely and sustainably.

in its 34-year history.

low carbon technologies, Gulf energy landscapes in the global

its engagement in the MENA region and gained first-hand

economy and international climate policy. It also featured guest

experience with the UAE’s economic and renewable energy

The IEW is a leading conference for the international energy

speakers from IRENA, Harvard University, Masdar Institute,

industry developments.

modelling community. In a world of environmental and economic

Chatham House and the International Energy Agency, amongst

constraints, energy modelling is an increasingly important tool

others.

for addressing the complexity of energy planning and policy

Financing is one of the major challenges when it comes to increasing renewable energy deployment in developing countries. Governments must have a firm, transparent long-

Each year’s content is different, depending on the issues of

term policy and regulatory framework that gives confidence

most relevance and importance at the time and in the region.

to investors for the duration of the project. The finance and

making. IEW provides a platform for scholars and researchers

Dolf Gielen, the Director of IRENA’s Innovation and Technology

Accordingly, this year focused on low carbon technologies, Gulf

structuring of renewable energy finance is very specific. It’s all

to compare quantitative energy projections, to understand the

Centre and Henning Wuester, Director of IRENA’s Knowledge,

energy landscapes in the global economy and international

upfront money. With conventional energy, you have a lot of the

reasons for diverging views of future energy developments,

Policy and Finance department shared some important

climate policy. The IEW is an unparalleled forum to advance

costs of power generation, in terms of fuel, down the road. Here

and to observe new trends in global energy production and

information on the growing renewable energy sector.

this vital field of work.

you’re paying 100 percent upfront.

consumption.

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16

ENERGY

September Issue 9 2015

Through two funding cycles, the project will have improved energy access for roughly half a million people in developing countries around the world, and leveraged for that USD 120 million in co-financing.

Each cycle, including the third currently in process, has received many more applications than can be funded, which proves there is a large appetite and desire to implement renewable energy projects around the world.

Henning Wuester DIRECTOR OF IRENA KNOWLEDGE, POLICY AND FINANCE

Q: Solar seems to be the most popular and most easily available renewable energy resource. But what options are there for countries with little sunlight? Are there alternatives to solar that are just as effective and cost efficient?

Q: Henning, more than 7.7 million people worldwide are

There are abundant renewable energy resources on every

now employed by the renewable energy industry, do you

part of the planet, but they vary depending on location. For

think this figure will grow and at what pace?

example, the MENA region is extremely rich in solar potential, while Iceland is rich in geothermal energy, and many coastal

We fully expect the number of jobs in renewable energy to

areas have abundant wind resources. That said, even countries

grow apace with the expansion of the sector. The number of

in the northern hemisphere where the sun is less strong, have

jobs recorded has increased 18 percent from last year and 35

managed to integrate substantial amounts of solar energy into

percent over the last two years. If you add large hydropower

their systems.

to the mix, you get a conservative estimate of an additional 1.5 million direct jobs worldwide. This increase is partly due

When considering renewable energy programs, countries can

to sharply declining prices for renewable energy technologies,

assess the most readily available renewable energy sources in

which is driving more jobs in installation and operation and

their region. IRENA has worked to facilitate this through the online

maintenance. If the world succeeds in doubling the global

Global Atlas tool, which generates maps detailing renewable

share of renewables, IRENA predicts that jobs in the renewable

energy resources across the globe. It’s the most advanced tool

energy sector would easily exceed 16 million jobs by 2030.

of its kind, combining 1,000 maps from 67 governments and 50 data centres to provide reliable information on renewable

Q: Tell us about the IRENA loan project. Who have you

energy resources anywhere in the world, from major cities, to

recently funded and who can qualify? Is there a long queue

isolated islands, to remote deserts.

of applicants?

Q: Should renewable energy targets be included in Financing is one of the major challenges when it comes to

legislation? Would it not help to ensure that a certain

increasing renewable energy deployment. Many developing

percentage of energy is coming from renewables and speed

countries for instance, have vast, untapped renewable energy

up the transition?

resources, but are not able to capitalize on them due to lack of investment and funding.

Renewable energy targets have become a defining feature of the global energy landscape. As of mid-2015, 164 countries

One of the ways IRENA, in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Fund

around the world have adopted at least one type of renewable

for Development (ADFD), is seeking to address this financing

energy target, up almost four-fold from 43 countries in 2005.

gap is through the IRENA/ADFD project facility. The Project Facility aims to advance renewable energy in a way that can

Governments are increasingly adopting renewable energy

drive the global energy transition through innovative, replicable

targets to meet multiple objectives including energy security,

projects.

environmental sustainability and socio-economic benefits. Their rapid growth is just one more signal of the world’s ongoing shift

The Project Facility has already allocated USD 100 million in

towards renewable energy and away from fossil fuels.

project funding over its first two cycles and will provide an additional USD 250 million in its remaining five cycles. Projects

Targets can send a strong signal of the political commitment

approved for funding to date include solar, hydropower,

to the expansion of the renewable energy sector and can

geothermal, biomass, wind energy and hybrid projects in

help drive investment. Even if they are not themselves part of

Ecuador, Mali, Maldives, Mauritania, Samoa, Sierra Leone,

legislation, they can play a powerful role if they are backed by

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Cuba, Iran, Argentina and

effective policies.

Mauritius. www.ziwira.com

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18

BUSINESS

September Issue 9 2015

The organization is socially motivated to

cated so close to a school, it attracts a

achieve its commercial goals. Its fore-

lot of mothers with their children.

most activity is to educate consumers

LIVE GOOD, FEEL GOOD, DO GOOD

DUBAI’S

FOUNDATION

MOST SUSTAINABLE ESTABLISHMENT

about sustainable consumption. TCI

In 2013, The Change Initiative was hon-

devised a criteria for product selection.

ored with an enviable accolade. The es-

The criteria includes; water preserva-

tablishment scored 107 points out of a

tions, social development, safe materi-

maximum 110 for the LEED guidelines,

als, organic, natural, locally made, land-

securing a platinum certification. LEED

fill diversion, intelligent design, indoor

is the most widely recognized and used

air quality, gluten free, forest friendly, fair

green building program in the world. It

trade, educational, durable, and biode-

is run by the US Green Building Council.

gradable. The Change Initiative complex

LEED certifies 1.5 million square feet of

is located opposite to Wellington School.

building space each day in 135 coun-

Its location might seem strange at the

tries. LEED is a certification program for

he Change Initiative is located

first glance – locked in a concentration

buildings, homes, and communities that

on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai,

of concrete surroundings. However, it

guides the design, construction, opera-

and was founded in 2008 by a

certainly softens the area, and being lo-

tions, and maintenance.

T

man with a green vision called Gundeep

by Zane Small

What is The Change Initiative? Is it a belief?

Is it a group? Or is it a place? In some ways, it has all of these aspects. The Change Initiative is a facility that represents community, education, sustainability, and well-being in Dubai. The Change Initiative facility has LEED certification from the US Green Building Council. In this article, Carlo dei Tedeschi from TCI shares some information about the background and overall purpose of the distinctive facility.

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Singh, the current CEO. He founded the company with the intention to help and educate people to make more ecofriendly lifestyle choices. Singh established The Change Initiative after realizing the space for a brand that could offer sustainable solutions, a replacement for everything that is unsustainable. He realised the importance and potential demand for his project in the market, and worked hard to make it successful.

Gundeep Singh FOUNDER OF THE CHANGE INITIATIVE

CLEAN UP THE WAY YOU LIVE

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20

BUSINESS

September Issue 9 2015

THE CHANGE INITIATIVE: ACCORDING TO CARLO DEI DEDESCHI According to Carlo dei Tedeschi from TCI, “The Change Initiative was a brainchild of an insightful man called Gundeep Singh.” Gundeep envisioned a place that had a “multi-dimensional functionality.” He not only wanted to create a retail space, but provide an overall communal establishment – all eco-friendly.

“A distinctive thing to understand about TCI is that it is not just about recycling, but also about the importance of sustain-

ple are ready for the change. “You’d be

creasing “depth of knowledge, people

ability for people, and making life better

amazed,” he said. Expatriates are living

are challenging, which is good.”

for them, thereby creating a fair society.”

in Dubai for a longer-term, becoming

Often TCI assists smaller businesses

more considerate of the place. “Peo-

Children have also become a key aspect

and offers thier offices to help out, which

ple want to bring a responsible mindset

to The Change Initiative. The incorpora-

is a key characteristic of how TCI stands

to Dubai. I get inspired by the people I

tion of children has been “hugely suc-

out in the community. Granola is appar-

meet here every day, all dedicated to

cessful” according to Carlo. Mothers

ently a very popular product at TCI.

making a difference.” There is a sense of

enjoy going to the TCI store to attend

sustainability at TCI.

classes with their children. With schools

“We also sell an amazing collection of

in close proximity, TCI’s youth customers

soap bars. TCI strives to provide prod-

According to Carlo, it is not difficult to

are growing. “There is plenty for mums to

ucts that people really want. “People

source suitable products to sell. Naty’s

do – seems to have an appeal to mums,”

have to understand that you need huge

Eco Nappies are very popular (decom-

said Carlo. TCI plans to expand on their

demand for products in order to supply

posing nappies), as well as REN, which

campaigning to attract more young peo-

it.”

is “very pure and clean.” Dermacare

ple. “A ton of kids come here to study

(skin care) from Sweden is another top

– we have amazing Wi-Fi – it’s a good

selling product. Customers seem to be

space to be in.”

In terms of influencing sustainability into the community, Carlo confirms that peo-

looking at labels more, and have an in-

THE FARM HOUSE AT TCI •

The Farm House was established at TCI as a community shelter for farmers to sell their produce.

•

In Dubai, farmers cannot sell fresh fruits and vegetables on the road side because of the hot climate.

•

The Farm House is one of The Change Initiative’s community projects.

•

What is great about the Farm House is that it is giving small business entities a chance to sell their products in the market, without falling into complex and expensive deals with massive corporates.

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22

COVER STORY

September Issue 9 2015

BIOFUELS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

BIOFUELS Middle East

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24

COVER STORY

September Issue 9 2015

Mr. yousif Bin Saeed Al Lootah is currently the Executive Director of S.S. Lootah Group and CEO of Lootah Biofuels.

COOKING UP A SOLUTION TO A RAPIDLY DECLINING SOURCE OF ENERGY

A young and energetic CEO, Mr. yousif Lootah overlooks the strategic direction, expansion and daily operations of Lootah

Dubai’s tourism sector is growing, thus increasing the strain on the city’s waste disposal system.

Biofuels in the UAE and internationally.

by Imran Khan

T

he potential for biodiesel, gen-

weather situations, increased energy

erated from used cooking oil,

and transportation costs, and the

is substantial in regions such

great global food demand.

as the United Arab Emirates (UAE),

yOusIf sAEED LOOTAh

which is focused on driving its hos-

In order to achieve the industry’s vi-

pitality and tourism sector as part of

sion of replacing 5% of diesel demand

Executive Director, S.S.

economic diversification. With the

by 2015, additional focus on new raw

Lootah Group & CEO,

number of hotels and restaurants in

material sources for biodiesel produc-

Lootah Biofuels

Dubai increasing – and set to grow,

tion is needed. New feedstock oppor-

especially in the run-up to the 2020

tunities vary significantly both in terms

World Expo and beyond – the ability

of potential impact on the market, and

to source feedstock cheaply and ad-

in terms of volume and timing for com-

equately is more promising than ever

mercialisation.

before.

A factor that has limited green initia-

As the UAE grapples with one of the

tives in the past is the perception of

highest per capita waste figures in the

higher costs associated with renew-

world, it is seeking to generate biofuel

able energy. This myth is being shat-

from used cooking oil (UCO) as part of

tered through the concerted efforts of

a drive to reduce waste that is eating

all stakeholders in the energy sector.

away land.

Dubai is rapidly becoming one of the most eco-friendly cities in the world,

Although the biodiesel industry has

and forward-thinking clean-tech com-

experienced

growth,

panies such as Lootah Biofuels, which

raw material supplies have served as

tremendous

produces biofuel from UCO, are help-

a natural brake and created a strain

ing the UAE achieve its green goals.

on margins for biodiesel producers.

The surge in commodity prices is a

Following global concerns about the

result of numerous factors including a

impacts of using food crops for bio-

weak dollar, expanding domestic and

fuels production, there have been in-

global biofuel production capacity,

creased measures to encourage a

low commodity stocks due to global

more diverse range of feedstocks to be used in the future.

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26

COVER STORY

September Issue 9 2015

WHY USED COOKING OIL? Huge quantities of waste cooking oils and animal fats are available throughout the world, especially in the Middle East which is emerging as a global hospitality hub. Management of such oils and fats pose significant challenges relating to disposal and water/land contamination. Even though some of this waste cooking oil is used for soap production, a large part of it is discharged into the environment. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) in the US estimates that some 100 million gallons of waste cooking oil a day is produced in the US. As large amounts of waste cooking oils are illegally dumped into rivers and landfills, the use of waste cooking oil to produce biodiesel

for

petro-diesel

substitution

offers

significant

advantages because of the reduction in environmental pollution. Diesel fuel consumption significantly contributes to the formation of greenhouse gases (GHG) and other global

year. The use of waste cooking oil as a biodiesel source has

pollutant emissions. The petroleum diesel is also a major source

the potential to reduce CO2, particulate matter, and other GHG

of NOx, SOx, CO, particulate matter, and volatile organic

emissions as the carbon contained in biomass-derived fuel is

compound (VOC) emissions. Such pollutants not only have

largely biogenic and renewable. UCO, which would otherwise

a negative impact on the global environment, but they also

be wasted, is one of the most economical choices for producing

severely impact human health due to their persistence in the

biodiesel. Since one of the major concerns in biodiesel

environment.

production is the price of feedstock, utilisation of waste cooking

The unfavourable climatic conditions of the Middle East for

The economics of biodiesel production have taken a new turn

oil significantly enhances the industry’s economic viability.

growing crop-based feedstock makes used cooking oil (UCO)

with the current surge in crude oil price in the world market.

the most preferred feedstock for biodiesel production. With the

BBC recently reported that the crude oil price set a fresh new

Middle East emerging as a global hospitality and logistics hub,

record level at $109 (â‚Ź99) per barrel. The diesel price in the

the demand for diesel and UCO potential have both increased

US is close to $4 per gallon and even the Middle East is not

drastically.

spared. As the oil prices increase in the international market,

The annual global consumption of diesel fuel is approximately 934 million tons. The US alone consumes 178 million tons a

SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

ECONOMICS

biodiesel could become a more viable alternate energy source.

Using UCO as a feedstock reduces biodiesel production costs

Oil feedstock cost accounts for over 70% of the total costs of

by about 60-70%, as feedstock constitutes approximately 70-

biodiesel production. Hence, if the waste vegetable oil is used

95% of the overall biodiesel production costs. UCO has the

as biodiesel feedstock, the economics of biodiesel can be

highest carbon saving ratio amongst all available biodiesel

significantly improved. Moreover, the use of waste cooking oil

feedstocks. The use of non-edible plant oils, when compared

also reduces waste treatment costs.

with edible oils, is significant due to the tremendous demand for edible oils as food. Edible oils are also too expensive to be

In many parts of the world, there is no legislation to ban the

used as fuel at present.

disposal of waste cooking oil into the drainage system, which creates several operational and maintenance problems.

In order to effectively recycle used cooking oil into biodiesel,

The disposed oil can solidify, thereby blocking the drainage

Dubai Municipality has authorised certain recycling premises

systems, and it also pollutes sewage and waterways. The cost

like Lootah Biofuels and Neutral Fuels to collect UCO from

of sewage treatment with high lipid content could be high.

restaurant and food chains. The municipality also takes stern legal action against restaurants who refuse to provide their

Recycling UCO into biodiesel provides a solution to many of

UCO to these recycling premises and instead drain it into the

these problems. Restaurants would not need to spend money

sewers or sell it to illegal buyers on higher prices.

to transport their waste oil to disposal sites. Municipalities could spend less money on sewage treatment if the lipid content in the sewage is low. Hence, recycling of waste cooking oil to produce biodiesel will decrease the cost of waste treatment.

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28

FEATURE

September Issue 9 2015

CONTROVERSY SURROUNDS CHINA AND THE CONSUMPTION OF DOG MEAT

MAN’S BEST FRIEND – FOR DINNER?

I

n China, an estimated 716 million pigs are slaughtered an-

are sourced. According to a four year inquiry into the dog meat

nually for food, along with 48 million cattle, and about 10

industry by Animals Asia, it concluded that the majority of the

million dogs. It’s an obvious fact that humans have and al-

meat being consumed during the festival comes from dogs that

ways will eat available meat – but the consumption of dog meat

have been stolen. In the report it says, “During the entire in-

has stirred people all around the world. Aside from the fact that

vestigation, we found no evidence of any large-scale breeding

for most people the idea of eating dog meat is unfathomable,

facilities, where 100-plus dogs were bred and raised. The diffi-

the real controversy surrounding the Chinese yulin Dog Meat

culty of large-scale breeding of dogs for food and the greed for

Festival is the cruelty conducted by the people of Guangxi.

profit give rise to stealing, snatching from the streets and even

The festival, first initiated in the 1990’s, brings together peo-

poisoning of dogs.”

ple from all over China to celebrate the longest day of the year, otherwise known

As dogs were coming into yulin prior to the

as “solstice” on June 21. The festival is

festival in June, Peter Li of Humane Society

held in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous

International (HSI) saw no evidence of ani-

Region bordering Vietnam. The common

mals with quarantine inspection certificates

belief behind eating dog meat (and also

to indicate they had been farmed. “All of

some cat) is that it will bring good luck

them can be suspected to be stolen urban

and health, and fend off disease and evil

pets, rural guard dogs and stray dogs and

spirits. About 10,000 dogs were killed for

cats,” he said. What’s more, there have

this year’s festival.

been widespread reports of terrible abuse to the dogs, including beating, clubbing,

The horror that surrounds the festival is

and they are made to suffer in tiny cages

not only related to the consumption of

without any room to move, before often be-

dog meat, but also about where the dogs

ing skinned and boiled.

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With a new generation emerging, the controversy surrounding

tion, born in the 1990’s, is not tolerant of animal cruelty,” said

the event has rallied many Chinese youth to condemn the fes-

Li. Much of the Chinese population were delighted when animal

tival. According to Peter Li, there is mounting pressure on Chi-

rights activists intercepted 18 trucks carrying dogs intended for

nese authorities to take action against the eating of pets - and

eating, resulting in the rescue of some 8,000 animals. Li be-

that society is turning against the idea of eating dog altogether.

lieves that the emergence of animal activism in China began in

There were apparently fewer dogs and cats kidnapped this

2011, which was the first year that more people lived in cities

year compared to 2014. “The overall attitude is against dog eat-

than the countryside. People living in the city seem to regard

ing. China has 130 million dogs, of which 27 million are urban

dogs and cats more as pets, as opposed to working animals –

pets. That’s a big number of pet owners. The younger genera-

guard dogs, for example or sources of meat.

RICKY GERVAIS FRONTS HSI CAMPAIGN

HSI named one

Humane Society International has been one of the main sources

of the rescued

of hope for dogs and cats that potentially await a horrific fate in

dogs after Ricky

China. Despite officials who deny the festival even takes place,

Gervais, pictured

there is significant evidence to suggest that it does. HSI filmed

below.

“

My friends at Humane Society International are working tirelessly to end this cruel trade all over Asia, and they

the festival slaughter preparations underway in yulin in late May.

desperately need your help. I’ve

The organization welcomed the support of actor and comedian

seen the footage that HSI has

Ricky Gervais, who publicly condemned the practice of dogs and cats being snatched from the streets of China, miserably packed into wire

captured on video, and it bleeds my heart. I will never forget

cages without food or water and driven in trucks

the look of bewilderment and

for hundreds of miles to be brutally killed for hu-

fear on the faces of these poor

man consumption. During an undercover trip to

animals – the dogs and cats

yulin’s dog and cat slaughterhouses, HSI had

await a horrible fate. No animal

an unexpected opportunity to save the lives of

deserves to be treated like this.

four terrified animals next in line for killing. In honor of Ricky’s efforts to halt the yulin festival, and shine a light upon animal abuse, HSI named one of the rescued dogs “Little Ricky”.

“

For centuries, dogs have maintained a special bond with humans, unlike any other animal. “Man’s best friend” is a term commonly used as a referral for our furry canine friends. However, in the vast state of Guangxi in Southern China, dogs are facing terrifying cruelty at the hands of humans, surrounding a modern tradition known as the Chinese Yulin Dog Meat Festival.

Ricky Gervais www.ziwira.com

30

LIFESTYLE many

brand selling ethically sourced,

women want to be. She

sustainable homeware products,

has carved out a life for

but has since grown and now

herself in the exuberant city of

has its own store at Times Square

Dubai as a fashion-conscious but

Centre in Dubai. Nisha is careful

at the same time conscientious

to select only brands that share

business woman and mother. Her

her sustainable ethos. We chatted

self-made brand, The Urban yogi,

to the vibrant and good-spirited

is bringing colour, culture and an

Nisha about the inspiration behind

ethical kind of beauty to the homes

the brand and what it means to be

of many people.

an ‘Urban yogi’.

isha

Hailing

is

from

background,

a

what

digital

Nisha

media

was

well

equipped for her next venture. For some time she had felt a personal longing to create a brand that would do something good. After struggling to find furniture for her

THE URBAN YOGI An interview with Nisha Varman Shetty, founder and CEO of The Urban Yogi, a sustainable homeware store in Dubai.

searching for unique brands made by the hands of people who loved

Q: Can you tell us about where you grew up, your education, and professional background?

I am a 3rd generation Singaporean who grew up in Mumbai in a Bollywood household. I have lived in India, Singapore and Qatar and I’ve been in Dubai since 2007. For many years, I worked in Out-Of-Home advertising, transitioning into Digital, to finally realize that my true calling was to create a brand that touched people’s hearts and inspired them to live a conscientious and beautiful life.

Q: Where did you get the inspiration for The Urban Yogi?

When we were re-decorating our home in 2011, we visited an incredible amount of stores in Dubai where we found mass-produced, soulless furniture and nothing seemed to inspire me. There was hardly any story-telling and most home décor stores were (and many still are) all about pushing volumes. I also found that a strong CSR culture was lacking in the retail landscape. True, there are a handful of

own home that had character and stories behind it, she began

INTERVIEW

N

September Issue 9 2015

by Nasreen Rasool

emerging brands, such as ‘The One’, which has done some incredible work in this area and I adore the brand, but more

They are individuals with a heightened sense of Karma, who

brands need to contribute in this space.

are self-aware and who want to make a difference through their everyday activities. I think, I qualify.

their craft. The Urban yogi started

Q: How is The Urban Yogi an ethical brand and why is it

in 2012 as a small e-commerce

so important to you to sell sustainable products?

Q: Do you have a favourite item in the shop?

The Urban yogi follows the Fair Trade model and Artisan

I do! Every container is different as we only carry one-of-a-

Wellbeing is one of our biggest priorities. As construction

kind products and I have a thing for vintage glass, Almirahs

dominates most urban landscapes, more and more tribal

and doors.

artisans in rural villages are giving up their centuries-old craft

Nisha VarmaN shetty CEO of The Urban yogi

to learn to hang drywall and mix cement. Talented hands are having to abandon what they know and love. Thousands

beautiful The Urban Yogi pieces?

of years of traditions and legacy are about to vanish. The

I have 2 young boys- Arjun (3) and Karn (almost 2) and I am

Urban yogi works with artisans from all over the globe to

waiting for them to get out of their destructive phase before

give them a unique platform to mix age old traditions with

I start bringing all my gorgeous stuff home!

new contemporary designs in the field of home décor.

Q: Do you believe in living a Green lifestyle?

Q: The corporate world and philanthropic world often

We are definitely mindful. We recycle, reuse wherever

seem to be at odds with each other. How did you manage

possible.

to turn this love for doing good into a successful business?

The Middle East does very well in Luxury Retail but when it comes to Sustainable Luxury, we’re still lacking a proper

Q: What do you love most about being in Dubai?

Dubai never treated me like an expat and I blended in from Day 1. I feel at home here.

support system. So the best approach for us has been to

Q: Would you consider introducing some fashion items

drive awareness amongst our customers about our brand

at some stage?

philosophy and how a simple act of shopping can create such a huge impact on another person’s existence.

Q: Have you always had an eye for creativity and beautiful things? yes! I have always had great taste and my hubby gets very worried when I go shopping.

Q: Would you describe yourself as an ‘Urban Yogi’?

The Urban yogi is someone who seeks comfort in beauty.

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Q: Have you decorated your own home with some of the

Absolutely! We are planning a Vintage Kantha range of statement jackets designed by Essawalla.

Q: Is there a particular philosophy that keeps you grounded and helps you to manage work and family life?

I believe in my vision for The Urban yogi and I seek comfort from it during adversity. It also helps that my husband and my mother-in-law are my rock-solid support system, always positive and always there when I need them.

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32

HEALTH

September Issue 9 2015

KENYAN’S INNOVATIVE SOLAR LAMP EXPELS THE NEED FOR KEROSENE Kenya may be a small country, but with a population of 44 million, healthy living is imperative to the African nation’s continuation. Evans Wadongo, a young Kenyan engineer, discovered an issue that was affecting not only his health significantly, but of all people throughout Kenya and the rest of Africa. Rather than accepting this health hazard, he did something about it, and changed his community for the better.

SOLUTION: MWANGABORA “GOOD LIGHT” Evans

Wadongo

is

the

proud

of

GreenWize

29)

left him with permanent eye

the solar lamps are far more

Co-Founder

(age

damage. With this in mind,

environmentally

Energy

friendly,

as

Ltd,

Wadongo was determined to

well as more favorable to

the Executive Director and

make a difference, and not

human

Founder of SDFA-Kenya, and

sit back and watch the same

to Wadongo, “For a family

one of CNN’s Top Ten Heroes

dangerous effects of kerosene

that earns two dollars a day,

of 2010. In 2004, Wadongo set

harm his fellow Kenyans.

kerosene takes about 30-40

up the “Use Solar, Save Lives”

health.

According

percent of their daily income. in

If they’re able to save that, it

Computer

really makes a big difference.”

kerosene lamps growing up in

Engineering, he was not short

He produced the lamps from

a western Kenyan village. One

of skills and experience. He

locally sourced scrap metal

night when he was studying

designed

to

and fragments of solar panels

close to an open flame, he

kerosene lamps – a simple,

that charge a battery-powered

was

LED light, while a USB port can

initiative, the

after

experiencing

dangerous

effects

of

With

a

BSc

Electronics

(honors)

and

an

alternative

to

kerosene

solar lantern which he called

is

notorious

MwangaBora, meaning “good

be built into the base, offering

for provoking breathing and

light” in Swahili. Compared to

an easy way to charge phones

vision defects. The exposure

traditional

and radios.

exposed

smoke,

which

kerosene

lamps,

NATIONAL HERO Aside from considerably saving his community from the effects of kerosene, Wadongo has also been praised for promoting sustainability.

Instead of importing solar technology from a mass producing country like China, the work was given to groups of young people, trained

CLIMATE WARNING: KEROSENE LAMPS

to manufacture the lamps. These are given to women’s groups, who use the money they save to set up small businesses such as poultry

Evans Wadongo

farming or beekeeping.

“We still have a lot of work to do in Kenya. By 2018,

W

hile policy makers focus on

to light houses without electricity.

“When women have their own income, they

we want to be working in at least five countries

carbon dioxide emissions

However, incomplete combustion of

spend it on their families and the whole

in Sub-Saharan Africa and have a million people

when considering efforts

the lamp fuel often yields black carbon

community benefits,” says Wadongo. For his

benefitting from our program. Eventually we want

to reduce climate change, a new study,

that absorbs light, thereby heating the

extraordinary achievements, Wadongo won the

to be able to do the same in South America, for

funded in part by NIEHS (National

atmosphere. The study presents new

International Seed Award in 2011, which helped

example.” Financing the project has not come

Institute

Health

laboratory and field measurements

to circulate lamps around the country. There are

without its challenges due to its long-term nature,

Sciences), suggests that replacing

showing that 7−9 percent of kerosene

now more than 50,000 of the solar lamps used

but Wodongo was not fazed by the challenge.

the type of kerosene wick lamps used

consumed by this type of wick lamp is

in Kenya alone. Fundraising exhibitions featuring

Each lamp costs $25, which covers materials,

widely in developing countries would

converted to carbonaceous particulate

the lamps have taken place in New york and at

training and distribution. The women’s groups

have a major impact in slowing the

matter that is nearly pure black carbon.

the Pavilion of Art and Design in London, and

can use money from their successful businesses

earth’s warming trend. Light produced

In contrast, less than half of 1 percent

Wadongo was named as one of CNN’s Top Ten

to buy more lamps, creating a micro-finance

by

extremely

of emissions from wood combustion

Heroes of 2010. At the 2012 London Olympics,

system. Wadongo selflessly stated, “We want

important for the twenty percent of the

of

kerosene

Environmental

lamps

is

is black carbon. The authors note

he was selected as one of the four torchbearers

to make sure that in every community we get

world’s population that lacks access

that 3 percent of global black carbon

for Kenya.

into, we leave them not only with lamps, but with

to electricity. In fact, previous reports

emissions come from these inefficient

estimate that 77 billion liters of liquid fuel, mostly kerosene, are used annually

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kerosene lamps.

increased income levels.” It’s safe to say that we The project has now taken off in Uganda, and

can likely expect many more innovative ideas

Wodongo is positive that the spread will continue.

from the talented Mr. Wadongo.

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34

INTERVIEW

KEEPING A TAB ON CARBON

September Issue 9 2015

Q: Some research has pointed out that methane

our work with clients. By identifying opportunities for

is more harmful than carbon. Why so much focus

resource efficiency and structuring related (revenue

on CO2? Shouldn’t we be concerned about all

generating) projects and initiatives, we encourage

GHGs?

investments into efficiency – away from wastage.

CO2 must not be looked upon as an individual gas, but as a unit of measure. Essentially, every greenhouse gas is given a global warming potential (GWP) compared to CO2, just like a least common denominator. Methane has a GWP of 25, meaning that if it takes the earth 1 year to metabolize 1 ton of CO2, it would take 25 years to metabolize 1 ton of methane. Methane is usually generated from organic based waste, so strong emphasis has to be placed

Ivano Iannelli, CEO of Dubai Carbon talks about their projects, COP21, monetization of carbon dioxide, and more…

The Dubai Carbon Center for Excellence specializes in the design and incubation of GHG reduction measures, and facilitates the transfer of knowledge to the private and public sectors on how to reduce their carbon footprint and overall environmental impact. The organization was developed as a partnership between the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) and

upon waste avoidance and resource consumption patterns.

Q: How would you respond to climate change deniers?

Economy Summit, why is this an important event for you and what did you achieve there?

The World Green Economy Summit gave us an opportunity to cap off one of our primary programs, and that is the Carbon Ambassadors Program whereby volunteering Emirati students transformed used shipping containers into functional bus stops.

The graduation ceremony of the program took place at the Summit and its purpose was to open doors for the future generation of this country to the field of green economy.The event itself is a key enabler to Sustainable Development. The ability to

Society and individuals do not embrace change

showcase replicable and scalable success stories

equally. At many instances change has been gradual

in the “green” space, allows for other governments

and is now part of our culture. For example, decades

and companies to embrace new best practices, thus

ago, people debated the use of seatbelts and

influencing a culture of efficiency and low-carbon

their efficiency, today we no longer question such

development.

tools. Similarly, we will always have debates across different topics, but consensus and convergence are building up.

United Nations Development Program (UNDP). We

According to a recent survey 98% of the 10000 active

spoke to the Italian-born CEO of Dubai Carbon, Mr.

scientists affirmed the existence of anthropogenic

Ivano Iannelli, about CO2 emissions, climate change,

climate change. Also, a recently released report by

and the work that he and his incredible team are doing.

the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), an agency with 195 member countries concluded with 95% confidence that the climate is changing due to human activity. Both these reports were based on factual evidence from the experts, so they carry significant weight as far as credibility. As for climate change deniers, most of their information is cynical in nature, filled with theories and conspiracy theories with little to no expert research.

Q: Is Dubai Carbon involved in any divestment projects or initiatives that try to influence businesses to move away from fossil fuels? This seems to be a growing movement now.

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Q: You recently participated in the World Green

Q:

How

exactly

do

you

monetize

carbon

reductions?

Monetizing carbon reductions is commonly known as environmental finance or green project finance. It is a method of funding in which the lender looks primarily to the revenues generated by a single project, both as the source of repayment and as security for the exposure. The increased governance and the publicprivate partnership of sharing liabilities also improve the project risk profile, thus providing better interest rates than conventional financial products. These transactions play an important role in financing development through the world.

When talking about Environmental or Green Project Finance, we are referring to the financing of projects that lessen the environmental impact and either include renewable energy, sustainability, improved energy efficiency or have a significant reduction in emissions. One example is the Clean Development

Well, the very establishment of Dubai Carbon as an

Mechanism. It allows emission reduction projects

organization between the Dubai Supreme Council

in developing countries to earn certified emission

of Energy (DSCE) and United Nations Development

reduction credits, each equivalent to one ton of CO2.

Program (UNDP) is based on the ambition to transition

These credits can then be traded, sold and used by

Dubai’s economic model towards low-carbon and

industrialized countries to meet part of their emission

independence from fossil fuel. This is reflected in

reduction targets under the Kyoto Protocol.

www.ziwira.com

36

INTERVIEW

September Issue 9 2015

Q: Which business sectors have shown the most

Force, which is well under way and quite an exciting

interest in reducing their carbon footprint?

partnership!

There has been a lot of movement in the past couple

Q: Will you be sending a representative to

of years in understanding each country’s greenhouse

COP21?

gas emissions. The Federal Government has been communicating the emissions of the UAE in the form

yes, as a matter of fact, we always send a

of the National Communications since 2007. Building

representative to the Conference of the Parties with

on this, Dubai Carbon has been working with the

the UAE delegation. Dubai Carbon has actively

Ministry of Energy to streamline, harmonize and

been involved in the Road to Paris. The Road to

ensure a higher level of accuracy in this calculation

Paris 2015 aims to convene a group of globally

by conducting the UAE GHG Inventory, which is

influential, progressive and impactful organizations,

now going into its third cycle. I believe that entities

leaders & other stakeholder that will:

both governmental and private are becoming more

Promote green economy based on public and

aware of their activities.

private collaborations

Businesses on the other hand are very determined to excel in this part of the world. They dont pursue a CO2 reduction strategy merely out of environmental

Showcase solutions to climate change to the UNFCCC and to key national and local governments, and

commitment, but also because they wish to be the

Create the right positive narratives for governments,

best among competitors, hence resource efficiency

businesses and financiers.

plays a pivotal role. These have included telecom operators,

logistics,

transport,

airlines,

event

organizers and developers to name a few.I would say that Government entities across all sectors including electricity, aluminum, waste, construction and transportation, have been expressing their interest a lot more, given the strong strategic focus and push from the National Government in the recent years. Of notable reference is Dubai Police for their commitments.

Q: What has been the response since the Green Jobs program was launched last year? And what other projects are in the pipeline?

I would say that our Green Jobs Program has gathered a lot of interest, and we have been invited by the media and other entities to share our preliminary research results. We have also received interest for collaboration with Kaptain World, under the agreement of which, we will conduct further quantitative and qualitative research. This research form the basis of more comprehensive work that will

It aims to be the strongest and most influential voice, platform and process supporting a global deal in Paris. Participants in the preparation of this initiative have called for a clear roadmap, realistic and comprehensive targets, and bottom-up initiatives and commitments.

Q: Would you say that Dubai is growing in its awareness of global warming and the need to reduce its carbon footprint?

I would say it’s safe to make such a statement, as Dubai is currently leading the change in sustainable energy in the region with further ambitions to compete with developed nations in the field of sustainable energy. Dubai aims to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world by 2021 and initiatives such as the Green Jobs Program are essential to attaining that goal.

Q: On ground level, what has been done and what more can still be done to educate the youth and general public about carbon emissions?

be conducted in partnership with Masdar.

From our side, we’ve launched several programs We have numerous projects in the pipeline, which consist of some very technical emission reduction projects, to initiate

our second class of Carbon

Ambassadors in our youth engagement program.

We have also recently collaborated with Dubai Police to establish the first Zero Carbon Police

www.ziwira.com

which have been specifically aimed to educate the youth and the population about Carbon Emissions.

However, this requires a collaborative effort from companies specializing in energy efficiency and the population, as initiatives of this nature must be encouraged in order to reach a broader audience.

www.ziwira.com

38

AUTO

September Issue 9 2015

UAE EMBRACES THE

LUCRATIVE HYBRID TAXI MARKET

by Zane Small

When the first Toyota Prius (hybrid) was released in 1997, the concept was met with a lukewarm welcome. Something about them just didn’t appeal commercially compared to the impressive range of gas-guzzlers available at the time. But today, another hybrid model has taken over by storm, by use of taxis. The Toyota Camry is taking over the UAE taxi industry.

Globally, cumulative Toyota Hybrid vehicle sales have surpassed 7 million, resulting in approximately 49 million fewer tons of CO2 emissions.

A

l-Futtaim Motors is a member of

receiving the vehicles in February 2014,

the Al-Futtaim Group, the lead-

Abdulla Sultan Al Sabbagh, CEO of Cars

ing UAE business conglomer-

Taxi Group said, “As an operator of over

ate. It has operated the Toyota franchise

4,000 taxis, we feel privileged to be the

in the United Arab Emirates for almost

UAE’s first private company to own Hy-

6 decades. One of the great presences

brid cars.”

RECENT ANNOUNCEMENT

on the UAE streets today, is Toyota tax-

In terms of reliability reputation, resale value, roominess, fuel

vehicle, Williams mentioned that, “Because it’s emitting less

economy, practicality, and just about every other metric that

CO2, it’s using less fuel. The other thing that most people don’t

mainstream buyers care about, the Camry ranks at or near

understand with the hybrid vehicles is they have lower cost of

the top of the charts. It offers fleet operator’s expansive sav-

ownership, so lower maintenance. There’s a saving there also

ings on maintenance costs thanks to even better Total Cost of

for the operator.”

is – but not just ordinary Toyota’s – we

Al-Futtaim Motors had previously sup-

are talking hybrid models. In February

plied Dubai Taxi Corporation with a

2014, Al-Futtaim Motors partnered with

fleet of 20 Toyota Hybrid Camry, follow-

Cars Taxi in an environmental venture

ing a three year trial run on 10 vehicles,

to further improve the nation’s sustain-

resulting in a 33% improvement in fuel

The Toyota Hybrid Camry has

vehicles, with less wear and tear and decreased service re-

An example he mentioned about lower cost of ownership, is the

able transportation credentials in line

efficiency and a 33% reduction of CO2

proven its credentials the world

quirements. For this reason, along with significant reduced CO2

way the hybrid system works. “It uses regenerative breaking, so

with Expo 2020’s vision. Under the deal,

emissions. In September 2014, Cars Taxi

over. In the UAE, the car has

emissions, recently, Al-Futtaim Motors and Cars Taxi made a

the kinetic energy from breaking is used to top up the battery.

Al-Futtaim Motors supplied a total of 28

announced ideas to expand, with plans

performed admirably in the

further announcement in relation to hybrid taxis in the UAE.

So you’re not using your normal discs and pads – they’re not

Toyota Hybrid Camry vehicles, mak-

to introduce 100 hybrid vehicles across

ing Cars Taxi the first private company

the country by the end of the year.

field, speeding up the cycle of reaching the Dubai Vision 2021

wearing down in the same way because you’re using your reOn June 15, 2015, Al-Futtaim announced the handover of an ad-

generative breaks. The cost of replacing breaks is dramatically

ditional 55 Toyota Hybrid Camry to Cars Taxi, growing the fleet

reduced in a hybrid vehicle.”

goals of a more sustainable

of existing Toyota Camry taxis between Dubai and Abu Dhabi

“

in the UAE to own a hybrid fleet. Upon

“

Ownership (TCO) when compared to traditional fuel-powered

society, while contributing to

to 100 vehicles, in line with the company’s goals of running an

the reduction of carbon dioxide

environmentally-friendly taxi transportation in the UAE. The an-

emissions.”

nouncement was made at a press conference attended by Jon

Jon Williams MANAGING DIRECTOR AT AL-FUTTAIM MOTORS

Williams, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim Motors, Yousuf Al Raeesi, General Manager Government Relations, Mohammed Hassan, Head of Corporate Sales at Al-Futtaim Motors, Abdulla Sultan Al Sabbagh, CEO of Cars Taxi Group, Abdul Razak, General Manager at Cars Taxi Group, and a number of senior officials from key government institutions.

As Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Motors, Jon Williams was proud to be at the event representing his organization. According to Williams, Toyota has sold more than 7 million hybrids globally. When asked about the benefits of driving a hybrid

www.ziwira.com

www.ziwira.com

40

AUTO

September Issue 9 2015

BMW CLUB EVENT

INTERVIEW

A CLOSE ENCOUNTER WITH THE I8 HYBRID

ABDULLA SULTAN AL SABBAGH

Following our review of the impeccable BMW i8 in our April Issue, BMW invited ZIWIRA to attend the BMW Club Event at the AGMC Showroom. The event offered loyal BMW club members the opportunity to come together to share their passion for the German auto brand and test-drive new models. Read about Zane Small’s experience taking the electric hybrid i8 model for a spin!

CEO OF CARS TAxI GROUP.

Cars Taxi conducted a study on the first fleet of 29 Toyota Hybrid Camry and saw a substantial 31% reduction in fuel savings per car over a period of 13 months, where the average hybrid vehicle saved around AED 1,200 per month in fuel cost. Over a period of 4 years, the study found that total savings per vehicle would exceed AED 55,000. Abdulla Sultan discussed his company and the recent hybrid fleet announcement with ZIWIRA.

Abdulla Sultan Al Sabbagh CEO OF CARS TAxI GROUP

Tell us about Cars Taxi, and where it

dirham using a hybrid car. A regular car

How have customers reacted to hy-

currently stands?

runs on 3,800! Hybrid vehicles are very

brid taxis?

cost effective. Maintenance wise, hybrid Cars Taxi was first initiated in 1995. We

is very low and more efficient than other

As you know, we are an international

started the company with 3,200 cars.

cars - a long term investment. If you’re

company, and everywhere people rec-

Initially it was the government running

going to make a long-term investment,

ognize Cars Taxi. If you go to India you

the taxi business. From the year 2000,

just look at us, we are saving 55,000 over

will find us, in Indonesia you will find

four years per car.

us, and in all GCC countries. This is the

the private companies started distributing taxi cars, but first it was Dubai Taxi Corporation. Today at Cars Taxi we have

name that we have built. Because of that, Are you planning to increase the fleet?

7,000 vehicles with 10,000 drivers. This

we have a good connection with our cus-

A

lthough I’m not a member, I was fortunate enough to

Next I was invited to come along for a test drive. Words cannot

get a chance to visit the BMW Club Event. It was held

describe how lustrous and impressive the i8 model is. To me,

at the stunning AGMC Showroom in Dubai, where the

it stands out as the first hybrid vehicle to truly outshine other

striking, sleek models on display left me awestruck. Having pre-

regular gas fueled vehicles today, in terms of performance and

viously reviewed the i8 model, I was immediately drawn to it,

physical appeal. The i8 model that I went in was a white color

along with a majority of the other guests who excitedly posed

with sky blue trimming. I almost feel a bit immature saying this,

for pictures alongside the vehicle with its winged doors spread.

but the winged doors are very entertaining, and a great feature

tomers, and we have an excellent office

in my opinion.

is increasing, and not only in the UAE.

For now we have achieved 100 hybrid

for customer care. We have professional

The i8 model is an electric plug-in sports car. It sells for about

We expanded outside of UAE, and went

cars, but our overall plan is to change all

taxi staff who have related very well to

600,000 AED in the UAE. A turbocharged three-cylinder engine

During the drive, I spoke to Bellal Abbas, a BMW Sales Execu-

international. Today, you see around

7,000 of our taxis to hybrid in the next

our customers. We were the first to im-

teams with two electric motors. Electric cars emit a significantly

tive with over ten years’ experience with the company. I imme-

20,000 taxis around the UAE, but we are

five years. The future of taxis is hybrid

plement hybrid taxis before RTA. In 2012

less amount of carbon emissions than gas fueled cars. Kevin

diately felt the power of the vehicle as we took off. The vehicle

planning to expand on that. In the UAE,

and electric, however I believe that hy-

I brought two hybrid cars from America,

Pather, Vice President of the Official BMW Club UAE, warmly

has sharp, responsive steering, and has excellent brakes. The

we also initiated Cars Taxi in Abu Dhabi,

brid is much more efficient than electric,

from New york, and brought them here

welcomed the crowd.

leather interior adds to the grandness of the driving experience,

Sharjah, Ajman, Ras-al-Khaimah, and

because downtime for electric cars is

to the UAE. We are very close with Al-

Fujairah. I think that the future of Cars

higher and less convenient. For hybrid

Futtaim Motors, because we are one of

“This event was specifically organised for you to enjoy. This

Taxi in the UAE is strong. As the Chair-

cars, because they recharge on the road,

the highest customers they have. We

has been in the making for many years, it has been a long and

I asked Bellal about the electric performance of the i8. He told

man, and I can see that it is going well.

there is no need to stop and charge for

have purchased more than 1 billion dir-

daunting task to get to where we are today, and it goes to show

me, “Basically, this car is a hybrid which can be defined as an

and all controls are accessible and easy to find.

hours (depending on the model). I saw

hams worth of cars from them. They are

the number of people who have come to support BMW who are

engine that has an electric motor as a separate unit. At the front,

How is fuel efficiency (hybrid taxis)

electric cars on the road when I recently

great at training our drivers, and even

passionate about it, so thank you everybody for coming.”

two electric motors of 131 horsepower teams with the engine in

benefitting Cars Taxi?

visited Hong Kong which is great, but I

our staff. We appreciate Al-Futtaim for

the rear of 231 for a combined 362 horsepower.”

personally think that hybrids are much I just arrived from Abu Dhabi, and I met

everything they do. We are saving pre-

During the event, I spoke to Paul, an attendee. I asked him what

better. For the first 40 kilometers, a hy-

cious fuel using hybrid - it is the future.

brought him to the event. I asked him if he is part of the club.

I said I heard that the i8 model compares pretty well to non-

with the Abu Dhabi GM. We had a dis-

brid will run solely on battery, and after

“Yeah kind of, I’m part of a forum where BMW is discussed, so

electric cars. “Yeah absolutely,” he said, “it’s got the same

cussion about how the hybrid taxis are

that has run out it will then switch to fuel.

we were invited along. ”Sharing his thoughts on the i8 model,

0-100 in 4.3 seconds which is quite similar to the current M3,

doing. We are saving more than 10,000

A normal car will make 8 kilometers, and

he told me “I actually quite like it, I saw an episode on top gear

M4, and even the M5. We’re talking .1 to .2 seconds of a differ-

a hybrid will make 11-12.

where they tested the car against the M3. I don’t remember

ence between these cars. Bear in mind that what we have here

which one was selected in the end, but it was a close call, so it

is a 1.35 cylinder engine, and we’re competing with V8’s.”

dirham using hybrid vehicles. One driver on a 17,000 income, ran on only 2,000

means that the i8 is definitely a high performance hybrid car.” www.ziwira.com

www.ziwira.com

42

ECO TECH

September Issue 9 2015

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF THE DIGITAL WORLD

LE T’S CH A N GE THE NAT U R E O F E -WAS TE

“

In the global race for technological advancement, a dirty footprint has been left on the environment.

“

E-Waste Need Not Turn Ugly.

TOXIC SPILLOVER According to Greenpeace, “Toxic chemicals in electronic prod-

Nigeria and Ghana, have sadly become electronic graveyards

from computers, circuit boards and TVs, to iPods, chargers,

ucts can leach into the land over time or are released into the

for the US and UK. Several tons of discarded appliances from

earphones, printers and even washing machines.

atmosphere, impacting nearby communities and the environ-

all over the world, are being dumped there every year. Thou-

irresponsible to ignore the glaring problem of e-waste

ment.” Substances such as mercury and arsenic can leak from

sands of broken TVs, personal computers, mobile phones, mi-

that is collecting at an alarming rate. One of the most fascinat-

Many are ignorant of the actual process that goes into mak-

these items into the groundwater and affect food quality for not

crowaves as well as refrigerators are illegally exported to West

ing things about technology is its rapid rate of advancement. A

ing these goods, with media glamourizing the ways in which

only humans, but animals too. In hot countries like the UAE, the

Africa and dumped in gigantic landfills like Agbogbloshie and

new cellphone is already faster and more sophisticated than its

they make our lives easier at the touch of a button. The truth

heat can speed up degradation of these electronics. And with

Olusosun in Ghana and Nigeria, respectively.

predecessor of just a few months. The age of digital progres-

is that electronics manufacturers use materials that are fraught

people tending to change cell phones as frequently as every

sion is allowing humans to do things we never before thought

with ethical and environmental concerns. Those include the so-

three to four years, and in some countries owning more than

The UK alone contributed 1.5 million tons of e-waste to the stag-

possible. But this is also one of its major downfalls. The rate of

called conflict minerals — tin, tantalum and tungsten (some-

one cellphone at a time, this e-pollution problem is only going to

gering 11.6 million tons generated in Europe last year, putting

production and consumption, unfortunately, far surpasses the

times even gold) — as well as rare earth metals that are avail-

grow unless stiff regulations are put in place soon or we see a

it behind only Germany as the continent’s greatest contributor.

rate at which we are able to safely dispose of our redundant

able almost exclusively from China. At the same time, the rapid

global shift in mindset among both consumers and producers.

In stark comparison, the whole of Africa only produced 1.9 mil-

tech gadgets.

cycle of obsolescence and replacement of these products also

F

or any media platform or company that is dedicated to the promotion and celebration of technology, it would be

lion tons. Yet the West African nations have become a dumping In many European countries, regulations have been introduced

produces a lot of garbage.

ground for the rest of the world’s defunct products.

to prevent electronic waste being dumped in landfills due to

Everyone rushed out to buy the new iPhone 6, but what happened to their old cellphones? Maybe the handful of enviro-con-

According to a United Nations University report, nearly 42 mil-

its hazardous content. However, the practice still continues

One way to solve the problem, according to experts, is to in-

scious consumers found a way to reuse or recycle them, but the

lion metric tons of toxic e-waste was discarded in 2014 alone.

in many countries. For example, in Hong Kong it is estimated

crease the products’ lifespan. Many people are just lazy or

likelihood is that most of them are probably still lying in e-waste

Only a sixth of this was properly recycled, and the rest was

that 10-20 percent of discarded computers go to landfills. In

careless enough to toss a perfectly functional mobile phone or

dumping sites somewhere, seething harmful chemicals into the

broken down by workers at dumps throughout the developing

India, Delhi’s Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said with

PC in the garbage just because it has become outdated or less

earth and into the air. The same goes for the copious amounts

world.

around 250 000 cell phones dumped every year, the problem

trendy. In some countries, where the funds are available, recy-

of e-waste management has gone beyond electronic items like

cling is done in contained environments, and many malls now

computers and TV sets.

feature a mobile phone drop-off recycling bin. There are even

www.ziwira.com

“

Toxic chemicals in electronics can leach into the land.

“

of ‘unwanted’ electronic gadgets discarded by humans daily,

outreach projects that educate school children about how to The ugly secret behind the expansion of European and Western

safely dispose of e-waste. Endeavors like these are to be com-

economies is that the waste is exported to poor countries in

mended, but the issue is still a serious one, and deserves much

Africa, as this is cheaper than recycling locally. In West Africa

more media attention than that given to the expensive glossy

particularly, two of the sub-region’s economic powerhouses,

adverts for the latest high tech fad. www.ziwira.com

44

GREEN SPORTS

September Issue 9 2015

TOP SCORES FOR GREEN NBA INITIATIVES Sports add entertainment and wellbeing to our lives. It does not always occur to people that there could be a link between sports and sustainability – but there is. Sports stars are up there with movie stars as the most influential people in society. The NBA along with the Green Sports Alliance, have brought positive change by means of environmental initiatives, to kick-off a sustainable future for healthy competition.

GREEN SPORTS ALLIANCE Sport has a unique way of bridging a gap between people and bringing a purpose to fans that few other disciplines

(Brooklyn Nets “Tree Giveaway” event, in partnership with PwC and the New York Restoration Project, April 20).

and industries can. Therefore, it is important for the sports

NBA

community to send the right message to the people who look

To make a significant impact environmentally,

New York Restoration Project for the third con-

up to it. US based Green Sports Alliance, founded by Paul

sports leagues need to actively engage their fans

secutive year to give away trees to the Brooklyn

G. Allen’s Vulcan Inc. and the Natural Resources Defense

in conserving, reducing, reusing, and recycling.

community. Former Nets player Albert King and

Council has a membership range of nearly 300 pro and col-

One such league is the National Basketball As-

members of the Brooklynettes made a special

legiate sports teams and venues from 20 different leagues

sociation. Basketball arenas have become one

appearance.

and 14 countries. Since 2010, the Alliance has brought to-

of the most admirably “green” aspects of the

gether venue operators, sports team executives and envi-

NBA today. 6 NBA team arenas have received

The Portland Trail Blazers have signed a part-

ronmental scientists to exchange information about better

LEED certification by the US Green Building

nership with Daimler Trucks to develop “Trees

practices and develop solutions to their environmental chal-

Council. These arenas include: Philips Arena

for Threes”, committing to plant 3 trees for each

lenges that are cost-competitive and innovative. From June

(Atlanta Hawks), American Airlines Arena (Miami

three pointer scored throughout the season. The

29-July 1, the group held the annual Green Sports Alliance

Heat), Moda Center (Portland Trail Blazers), Toy-

partnership will result in more than 3,000 trees

in Chicago, Illinois – the world’s largest and most influential

ota Center (Houston Rockets), Barclays Center

planted during spring in Portland’s Sandy River

gathering for the sports community to unite around sustain-

(Brooklyn Nets) and Amway Center (Orlando

delta, restoring wildlife to the region. The Miami

ability. The event brings together more than 800 industry

Magic).

Heat team have pledged their ethical support to

the community.

the community through the “Re-Heat Program”.

Young people know

stakeholders to learn and share better practices and the lat-

“

The Nets love to be involved in

est innovations in greening operations, advancing the sup-

The Brooklyn Nets’ (LEED) Certified Arena is

Miami Heat in partnership with C1 Bank and

that trees are an

ply chain and engaging fans.

admirable in a green sense, but how does that

Levy’s Restaurants have facilitated the donation

essential part of our

engage fans? The Nets looked for creative ways

of more than 17.5 tons of food to those in need

environment. To be

to engage fans in both their team and in doing

throughout the Miami community since 2008. The

some good for the planet. The “Trees for Threes”

program provides a tax rebate for their partner,

able to plant them

initiative is a smart way to get their fans to root

Levy Restaurants, and more importantly, ensures

for them while promising to plant a tree. In April

that food is not wasted.

30 years from now those young people

“

2015, the Nets teamed up with PwC US and the

and see them grow,

will come back here and be able to say, I was a part of that.

Albert King FORMER NBA PLAyER

www.ziwira.com

www.ziwira.com

46

WILDLIFE

September Issue 9 2015

Human fascination with the beauty and prowess of these lions may just have been the cause of their extinction.

Barbary Lions

C

haracterized by their dark, majestic manes, the Barbary,

fear into the hearts of any visitor and send a clear message of

or Atlas lions were one the largest lion sub-species. They

control. By the 1920s there were none to be seen and scientists

were known to roam through the mountains and deserts

assumed them to be extinct.

of northern Africa, all the way from Morocco to Egypt. The last wild Barbary lion may have been killed in 1922 by a hunter in

According to the BBC report, two skulls of male Barbary lions

Morocco.

were found in the London Tower in 1937. From these skulls, scientists managed to decipher that they had been malnourished,

They were admired so much that they were even desired as pets

malformed and died at an early age. They reported that the hole

by many ancient leaders, particularly the royal families of Mo-

where the spinal cord enters the skull is usually a “well-formed

rocco and other North African nations, who wanted to show them

sub-circular shape”, but in these skulls they were deformed – a

off as a symbol of power. But it didn’t end there. They were also

sign that there may have been nutritional deficiency. As the bone

revered by the Romans, whose gladiators would battle the lions,

grew, this deformity would have put pressure on the spinal cord,

and they were often displayed in European zoos. A recent BBC

eventually leading to paralysis and blindness.

report suggests that the toll of this exploitation was too much and that it was this human lust for these animals that eventually led

So in the end, it was man’s desire to own the Barbary lions that

to their extinction.

saw them being removed from their natural habitats in North Africa, and later exploited and killed for sports.

Many of the lions were killed in the Roman gladiator games, and in the Arab empire that followed, they were forced to live in much

There have been some recent reports that put forward the possi-

smaller territories. This was followed by the emergence of Euro-

bility that some of these lions remained alive in secluded parts of

pean hunters in the 19th century, who allegedly killed the last of

Algeria and Morocco, hidden from the human eye, possibly even

the remaining Barbary lions. And in Medieval England, the lions

as late as 1965. Though they are now extinct in the wild, some

were kept in cages at the entrance to the London Tower, to put

zoos claim to have hybrid species of the animals in captivity.

SO HOW IS THIS RELEVANT TODAY? Scientists believe that there is an important story to be learnt

any incentive to keep looking for and conserving that species,

from the extinction of the Barbary lions. Many say it could point

as might have been the case with the Barbary lions.

out what needs to be done to protect the rest of the lion species that exist today, from their habitats to nutrition to hunting

The story of the Barbary lions is as intriguing as it is tragic, and

and poaching regulations, as well as attempts to step up con-

with so little known about them or the exact time when they went

servation efforts. In addition, it shows that small, fragmented

extinct, the story remains incomplete. But the sad truth is that

populations in certain regions may just require special attention

while lions are still seen as symbols of power and courage, it

in order to ensure their survival.

was these very qualities in the Barbary lion that tantalized its captors. Somehow the human race has managed to destroy the

Some researchers have also recommended against declaring

very thing it once revered.

any species as extinct too quickly. They say this could remove

HOW THE BARBARY LIONS WENT EXTINCT www.ziwira.com

Barbary lion (Panthera leo leo), also known as the Atlas lion.

www.ziwira.com

48

GREEN CELEB

September Issue 9 2015

ROBERT REDFORD

ADDRESSING THE UNITED NATIONS In late June, the 78-year-old actor/activist was invited to speak at the United Nations Headquarters in New York to address the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Meeting on Climate Change, which aimed to energize multilateral cooperation on

ADDRESSES CLIMATE CHANGE

the issue ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris later this year. In the French capital, countries will discuss an agreement intended to succeed to the landmark Kyoto Protocol on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Redford addressed 193 countries not as an actor, he said, but as an environmental advocate, father, grandfather, and concerned citizen. He said that the, “time for half measures and climate denial is over,” and added that the world must quickly move away from fossil fuels.

“This is our only planet, our only life source – this may be our late chance.” He urged the leaders seated before him to adopt a universal climate agreement in Paris in December to take action on climate change, adding that it affects every nation on earth. “It is the overwhelming judgement of science that climate change is real, and the result of human activity,” he said. “Everywhere we look, moderate weather is going extinct.”

“

Climate Change is in everybody’s backyard.

CLIMATE AMBASSADOR Aside from his considerable success as a Hollywood

about where climate change stands as an international issue

He was then asked about what message he would give to the

compared with the likes of current conflict in Syria, Central Af-

international community on the importance of fighting climate

rican Republic, and yemen. In response, he said that climate

change. Redford responded by saying, “First of all, pay atten-

change has always taken a back seat to such issues, but he

tion.” He believes that once it is out there as a topic, others will

also feels that, “change is in the air,” because, “you see what

look around and think for themselves about why it is important.

happened this week with same-sex marriage.” Redford ex-

Redford urges people to open their eyes to what is going on

plained that what sits behind and atop of all of the problems

around them. “All you have to do is open your eyes and pay

happening today is the bigger problem that concerns every-

attention and you’ll look this way or that way, and you’ll see fire,

body’s health – “every country, every nation, and every person.

tornadoes, hurricanes, and if that’s the case, you can’t tell me

They’re all under the umbrella of climate.” Redford believes that

it’s not going to affect people.” Redford’s final message to peo-

if we don’t do something sooner rather than later, we might not

ple was to pay attention to our surroundings and look at how

have a planet to live on any longer.

climate change is being evidenced all around us.

actor, Robert Redford has been heavily involved in envi-

Redford was then asked about his views on involving youth in

ronmental issues for decades, renowned for his commit-

climate change awareness and about the role that he thinks

ment to it and for speaking out on various issues affecting the environment, in addition to serving as a trustee of the Natural Resources Defense Council, a New york City-based non-profit organization, since 1975. His initial interest in the environment and climate issues go back to when he grew up in Los Angeles and thoroughly enjoyed the cleanliness of the city. However, he claims that after World War II, the city atmosphere altered significantly.

Skyscrapers began to emerge, as did highways, and more pollution. “I saw a city that I really loved sort of disappear under my feet, so I moved away.” Redford spent time in the Sierras

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Redford with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.

In an interview with the UN News Centre, Redford was asked

“

Robert Redford is an internationally recognized A-list actor, director, and activist. His laidback Californian charm and brilliant acting abilities have earned him multiple awards including the Academy Award for Best Director for the film “Ordinary People”. But film isn’t the only field that Redford has committed himself to. He is also a fierce advocate for the environment, recently addressing the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Meeting on Climate Change.

youth should take. Surprisingly, he started with an apology to and worked at yosemite National Park, where he de-

the new generation for what has been left for them to work with

veloped a love of connecting with nature away from the

– “they don’t have a lot.” He is impressed by how youth today

modern smog-ridden city where he grew up. In 1970, at a

are much more focused on environmental betterment as op-

conference in Vale, Colorado, Redford witnessed images

posed to 15 years ago when, “America’s youth was focused

of renewable resources (including solar, wind, geother-

more on other issues, like how to get ahead, how to make mon-

mal, etc.) - initiatives that were not widely recognized at

ey, and the environment was not on their minds.” Redford is

the time. He understood all of the possibilities that these

encouraged by the new generation because they are, “better

resources could bring to a rapidly declining world, and

informed, they’re more knowledgeable, and the more knowl-

made a commitment to himself to do whatever he could,

edgeable they are, the more they get concerned, because it’s

to raise whatever small voice he had in that direction.

going to be their future.”

The Yosemite National Park in Sierra is where Robert Redford developed his love for nature.

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ENTERTAINMENT

September Issue 9 2015

Ali Mostafa’s new film carries a powerful message about water shortage.

THE WORTHY

Ali MOSTAFA EMIRATI FILM DIRECTOR

A movie about a future wasteland where survivors must fight for water.

The WorThy

E

mirati film director Ali Mostafa’s latest endeavor is an

for survival, and only one will be chosen as worthy.

action/thriller about a futuristic war fuelled by water shortage. He made the official announcement at the

The film will be financed by Ali’s long-time supporting partner, Image Nation Abu Dhabi, and will be produced by two Holly-

Cannes Film Festival.

wood veterans, Peter Safran and Steven Schneider, along with The film, entitled The Worthy, is quite unlike his previous work,

UAE film veteran, Rami Yasin. This will be the first time that Ali

and is admittedly out of his com-

Mostafa directs a film that he

fort zone. Ali is most popularly

has not written. According to

film, City of Life, which tells the story of life in Dubai through three intriguing characters. Last year the Abu Dhabi Film Festival opened with a screening of his film, From A to B, another critically acclaimed ensemble.

Based on his repertoire, The Worthy is expected to be nothing less than a superb piece of creative art with a powerful message. Speaking of the film, Ali said, “It’s different and therefore more exciting. I feel the need to do these things because it shows that you can be versa-

“

This genre has a really strong niche, even here in the region. My goal is to target people who are interested in these kinds of films. There are people who only watch fantasy fiction films.

And cosplay is big here. So that’s the kind of people I’m looking at. Because if they like it, that means I’ve done a good job.

“

known for his nostalgic debut

tile.”

the director, it was written with no specific location, so they decided to give it an Arab context.

They ended up changing the characters, their storylines and the location to give it more local relevance.

In an interview with local media, he said, “It’s a really interesting look at what would have happened had something gone drastically wrong in Arabia in the future. We tried to imagine it bearing in mind what’s going on currently and the history of the region. Would it go a certain way, and if so, what happens?

10 years from now how would

the current situation shape the region?”

The film is set in a future that has been plunged into chaos due

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to a chronic water shortage, and follows a group of survivors

The UAE has a fairly young film industry, and Mostafa’s films

who seek refuge in the only remaining water source in the area.

have often been described as leading the way. With The Wor-

When two strangers also discover this source, it becomes a test

thy, he hopes to tap into a whole new audience.

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ENTERTAINMENT

September Issue 9 2015

W

hile you’re reading this, I certainly don’t want to put you off your favorite show. I mean, there’s no need for me

to spoil quality entertainment like Game of Thrones with serious stuff like Climate Change, CO2 emissions, and the possibility that our world could turn into a ball of carbon dioxide like Venus! But once you understand the connection, you will be flabbergasted, and most importantly, intrigued. There is an undeniable link between Game of Thrones and Climate Change that you probably haven’t even realized (because you were more than likely thoroughly engrossed in the show, because it’s that awesome).

Simply put, the characters in the show represent us (earthlings), and the White Walkers represent Climate Change, which is continuously heading towards us, and yet we do nothing about it. Instead, like the noble houses of Lannister, Stark, and Baratheon, we choose to quarrel about other petty issues that seem important at the present, but in the future will prove to look pretty insignificant when our cities are flooded and super storms occur daily. What’s more, some of the so called ‘nobles’ downright deny the existence of the White Walkers, which is oddly familiar to some of our esteemed politicians and global leaders, as dealing with Climate Change can seem a little inconvenient compared to war, hunger, and poverty (which in some cases is completely understandable).

Charli Carpenter, a Political Scientist at the University of Massachusetts, calls Game of Thrones a ‘collective action story’. “The story of the Northern Wall and the forces it holds at bay,” she says, “is

GAME OF

CLIMATE CHANGE? HBO’s Game of Thrones is the twisted tale of mighty noble houses all competing for a chance to rule the land of Westeros upon the Iron Throne, all the while ignoring a deadly threat from the ghoulish, zombie-like White Walkers who approach from the north.

by Zane Small

about the mistaken belief that the industrial civilization can stand against the changing forces of nature.”

I know it seems a little heavy to compare our own industrial civilization to the mythical land of Westeros, but it’s difficult to overlook the similarities when comparing the two. you have to admit that when you’re watching Game of Thrones, you love to yell and moan about the characters in the show who ignore the zombie threat coming from the north (RIP Jon Snow, the only character who seemed to genuinely care). But in our world, if the White Walkers can be classified as Climate Change, and we’re not doing nearly enough to prevent catastrophic global warming, who should you really be annoyed with?

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54

TRAVEL

September Issue 9 2015

SWIMMING WITH

GIANTS IN THE PHILIPPINES

TOURIST PERSPECTIVE

FRIENDLY OR THREATENING? Oslob is a fourth income class municipality in the Cebu Province of the Philippines.

With stunning tropical weather, and a friendly laidback community, Oslob has become a prime spot for tourists from all around the world. But aside from its tropical charm, the main tourist draw to Oslob is the chance to swim with magnificent whale sharks – which in turn has caused no small amount of controversy.

CONTROVERSIAL PERSPECTIVE Opinions about the controversial feeding

There are growing concerns that feed-

of whale sharks in Oslob vary greatly,

ing sessions leave the whale sharks

and while some want to ban the feeding,

passive toward humans and more vul-

others believe this is an amazing alter-

nerable, as well as over-dependent on

nate income for the town. Steve de Neef

the handouts. The interaction in Oslob

is a photojournalist and videographer

has, however, raised awareness of the

focusing on documentary, conservation

endangered fish (whale sharks became a protected species in 2003) across

With such a booming tourist industry

westward down the eastern coast

and underwater stories. He has lived

happening in Oslob right now, it’s

of Cebu Island to watch and swim

very closely to the whale sharks of Os-

Asia and beyond. It’s also helping the

hard to imagine a time when there

with whale sharks, which the locals

lob and experienced the rapid growth

local economy. In 2014, whale sharks

wasn’t a constant influx of people

call butanding. The companies who

of tourism. According to Steve, the fish-

attracted over 110,000 tourists to Oslob,

from all around the world coming to

run the whale shark tours hire some

ermen have been using uyap (small

according to the Department of Tourism

stay. Oslob’s reputation as a prime

of Oslob’s fishermen to feed the

shrimps) as bait for years. The fisher-

for Central Visayas, the islands of which

whale shark spotting area began

whale sharks everyday by dumping

men have seen whale sharks in the area

Oslob is a part of.

when fishermen noticed their pres-

“chum” buckets of krill from the out-

for a long time; and while at times there

ence in the area, and were hired

rigger canoe Bangka boats (paddle

weren’t but a handful of sharks left, there

The problem with the feeding is that

by dive shops to take tourists out to

boats as opposed to boats with an

now seems to be plenty.

these wild animals are migratory and are

marvel at the giants.

engine or propeller).

supposed to move to find food. Right According to Steve, many fishermen in

now, the uyap that is used as bait for

According to Edgar Mirambel, the

Guests from Cebu City are advised

the Philippines see the sharks as pests

the whale sharks is gone. This normally

founder of Island Trek Tours, “Peo-

to leave very early in the morning

because when they eat their bait, they

means the whale sharks should migrate.

ple first started coming to see whale

(around 5-5.30am at the latest) so

scare away the small fish that they hope

However, the fishermen are now buy-

sharks in Oslob around three years

that they can arrive at Oslob at a

to catch. One fisherman was quite keen

ing different shrimp from other areas

ago, in 2012.” Before the tourism

good time for the arrival of the whale

on the whale sharks and would give

to keep the business running. Whether

boom hit the area, Oslob was strug-

sharks, who come in regularly in

them snacks from time to time, believ-

or not you feel that feeding the whale

gling to rely on farming and fishing

the mid-morning (8.30-9am), when

ing they would bring him good fortune.

sharks in Oslob is positive and making it

until whale shark tourism began to

they are being fed. After gathering

Soon, local dive shops offered the fisher-

a great spot for wildlife spotting, or that

draw people to the sleepy town that

excitedly on the beach, guests are

men money to take them to the sharks.

it is wrong and unnatural – at least it is a

is now very much alive and vibrant.

helped onto tiny catamarans, and

From then on, the fishermen realized

far cry better than slaughtering them, as

paddle out for a few minutes before

what a great opportunity they had stum-

we have witnessed too many times dur-

To experience an encounter with

cranking the engine, and cruising

bled across, and soon news of the whale

ing mankind’s turbulent relationship with

the incredible endangered crea-

for another five until reaching the

sharks spread quickly, initiating the tour-

nature.

tures, from Cebu City, a 3 hour

first cohort of feeders.

ism industry in Oslob.

bus ride transports guests southwww.ziwira.com

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56

TRAVEL

September Issue 9 2015

GREEN HOSPITALITY AMIDST THE ELEGANCE OF

THE PALM JUMEIRAH

The Palm Sofitel in Dubai speaks volumes in terms of luxurious, island-style hospitality, all the while remaining ecologically sound. Rohit Salunke, Director of Engineering at the hotel, spoke to ZIWIRA about the initiatives that makes The Palm Sofitel one of the most sustainable hotels in Dubai.

Rohit Salunke

GREEN OPERATIONS – ACCORDING TO

ROHIT SALUNKE

I

DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING AT THE HOTEL

n terms of addressing environmental concerns,

sustainable initiatives into daily tasks and routines. We

achievements. The amiable accolades prove that we live

initiatives related to sustainability. Rohit also recognizes

the hotel industry is a huge player in the creation of

spoke to Rohit Salunke, Director of Engineering at the

in a changing world – and soon green business operations

the importance of guest involvement. “We feel that every

adverse environmental impacts. From the first stages

hotel, to know more.

will be something that does not need recognition to be

small step we take towards sustainability will leave its

implemented. Sofitel Dubai is literally changing the face

lasting impact on the environment. Various sustainable

are significantly affecting climate change, and the industry

Nestled within the tranquil groves of the Palm Jumeirah,

of luxury tourism – one that recognizes the importance of

activities are organized within the resort with participation

continues to fuel the growth of landfills.

with an abundance of stunning organic architecture and

the environment.

of all the ambassadors, and especially our guests have

of construction, and throughout daily operations, hotels

lush vertical gardens, the resort reflects a timeless spirit

kept us motivated to always look and create opportunities

Liquid or wrapped soap? Bottled or filtered water?

and tropical allure. The French-Polynesian themed resort

According to Rohit, teamwork, combined with an overall

Incandescent or CFL light bulbs? Eco-friendly hotels

recently earned three awards at the 3rd Dubai Environment

sense of working together to achieve green goals was

make calculated decisions with every item they select

Health and Safety Awards, held on the 1st of April, 2015.

an important aspect of achieving the awards. “We have

The hotel has organized activities such as Earth Hour,

to represent their brand. And in doing so, they strive to

In addition, they have also picked up the Award for the

actively been participating and conducting several

Global Earth Day, UAE Clean Up Day, Tree Plantation

prove that going green does not mean forgoing comfort.

Green Hotel of The year at The Emirates Green Building

sustainability activities across the resort to create the much

Drive, Beach Cleaning Drive, and Linen & Towel Reuse

But just how green is green enough? Talking green is not

Council Annual Awards, 2015; received the Green

needed awareness on sustainability, and encourage best

programs for guests, to involve them in healthy, fun

enough for The Palm Sofitel, as it stands out to put forward

Globe Certification Award for 2013; the certification of

practices within the team with involvement of guests.”

ways. The program “Soap for Hope” in partnership with

calculated green statistics for being the greenest hotel in

Appreciation from UAE Green festival organizing; and were

chemical supplier Diversey Care, was launched to collect

Dubai. The resort offers a cozy retreat from Dubai’s urban

nominated in the Best Environmental category in Middle

To create a sense of awareness, The Palm Sofitel has done

cityscape, all the while striving to incorporate green and

East Travel awards, 2014. These awards are no small

well to associate its brand with community activities and

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for continual improvement.”

used soap from guest rooms and send to Diversey to be distributed to less fortunate people in rural areas. “Hand

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58

TRAVEL

washing with soap is considered a ‘do-it-yourself’ vaccination against the spread of various illnesses,” said Rohit. “The Palm Sofitel collects discarded soaps which are re-used and made into new soap bars in less-privileged parts of the world. The hotel re-buys these recycled soaps and distributes them for free to households in several communities in Cambodia. With this initiative we save lives, provide livelihood, and prevent

September Issue 9 2015

SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH INNOVATIVE, ENERGY EFFICIENT DESIGN

wastage.”

PLANET-21 PROgRAm As part of the ACCOR Group’s commitment to sustainability, The Palm Sofitel follows the Planet-21 program – a sustainability development program implemented across the resorts with specific criteria’s to achieve a level of Bronze/ Silver /Gold and Platinum compliance. According to Rohit, “The ethos followed is that sustainability is not only a corporate responsibility, but a global responsibility of each individual living on this planet. It is important to take every step forward by having the best energy efficient technology incorporated within the design and whilst also following the best sustainability practices as part of the daily routine in everyday life.”

As a part of the program, incandescent lamps have been completely phased out in public areas and guest rooms, and replaced with LED/CFL lamps. 80% of the resorts halogen

Although very effective and admirable, social programs and

lamps in public areas have been replaced with LED lamps.

guest involvement is not the only way that a hotel can be

Energy and water meters have been installed to identify the high

environmentally friendly. According to Rohit, roofing of the

consumption areas and take timely corrective action, and all

complex is made with cape reed thatching, covering an area of

guest rooms, kitchens and public area taps have been installed

7,000 square meters. “The unique thatching material only grows

with low flow water savers which have saved up to 40 % of

on a small strip of land in the southern cap region of South

water consumption. As if that wasn’t enough, the resort also

Africa,” he said. “The cape reed plant provides one of the most

has an efficient recycling programme in place, where 140 tons

durable natural fibers on earth, making it ideal for thatching with

of paper and cardboard, 50 tons of plastic, and 60,000 liters

a life expectancy of 20-50 years. It allows trapped water and

of used oil have been recycled alone till date which resulted in

heat to escape, making it waterproof and UV-proof, thus ideal

almost 30% of the resort waste diversion from the landfill which

for the local climate.”

generated a saving to the environment equivalent of 2,330 trees, 575610 kwh of energy, 959,350 gallons of water, 8,223

50% of hot water at the resort is generated through 232 solar

pounds of air emissions and 166,260 liters of oil.

panels installed on the roof, covering an area of 530 meters, generating 2,200KW of heat per day. Furthermore, the entire air-conditioning condensation drains are connected to the irrigation tank which is recycled to be used for the resorts landscaping areas covering 27,000 square meters.

Recycling is high on the agenda, according to Rohit. The entire resort’s waste water is connected to the government sewerage network which is then recycled at treatment plants and distributed for irrigation. The resort uses 100% recycled waste water for landscaping areas. “The resort also has a unique design incorporated for the resort landscaping area through the installation of a weather station for efficient operations of irrigation sprinklers that saves almost 30% of irrigation water,” said Rohit.

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BUSINESS

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