Eco-friendly buildings: Gulf wakes up to 'green' concept

Recent studies on energy consumption in the Gulf region have changed the misconceptions about the sustainability of eco-friendly 'green' buildings, prompting adoption of such models.

According to the UN Environment Program, converting existing buildings to environmentally-friendly — or 'green' buildings — could reduce global carbon gas emissions by 1.8 tonnes per year.

Within the Gulf region itself, consumption of energy by buildings is estimated at  40 per cent of total energy used, and are estimated to produce over 50 per cent of all waste.

These statistics have illustrated the importance of achieving an understanding of the concepts of green buildings and sustainable construction, and promoting these concepts in the region.

Saeed Ahmed Mohammed bin Butti, Chairman of Al Dhiyafa Holding, and Jinan Hotels and Resorts, notes that investors believing that initial costs of 'green' buildings are greater than the initial costs of 'normal' buildings are only seeing the empty half of the glass.

"Green buildings are a great form of investment because investment is not about construction costs, but about the returns achieved and how costs are reduced and profits are increased," he added.

 Abu Dhabi will play a major role in raising awareness about this concept. Under the Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, the Emirate aims to transform itself into a model of sustainable urbanisation in the region.