The construction industry, like many others, is undergoing a shift towards sustainability. Architecture and design work plays a crucial role in this process, as architects determine the materials used in construction. However, with advancements in technology, new materials that support sustainability principles are fast becoming popular. Green concrete and timber are some of these materials. Al Masaood Bergum seeks to further this shift in the Middle East by expediting the launch of cross laminated timber (CLT) which has been embraced in the US and Europe as carbon-negative and easy to use.
But what does sustainable construction really mean? Is it just a process or a societal goal? The construction industry must agree on a clear definition before efforts towards a sustainable future can be unified. In the region, there are initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability in buildings. For example, Emirates GBC is taking the lead with its Green Building Regulations and Specifications, which set clear goals and requirements for sustainable buildings in the UAE.
Similarly, the Qatar Green Building Council has established the Qatar Sustainability Assessment System (QSAS) to define specific sustainability criteria for buildings in Qatar. This includes aspects such as energy consumption, water efficiency, and indoor environmental quality. Fundamentally, exchanging ideas between industry players and learning from existing practices is essential to achieving this common goal.
From concrete to timber
New materials and technologies are essential in making the construction industry sustainable. For instance, CLT has become a popular choice because it is recyclable and reusable and significantly reduces carbon emissions. Green concrete is also an excellent choice as it absorbs carbon dioxide from its surroundings, purifying the surrounding air. A great example is the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) in Doha, which was built using green concrete, incorporating waste materials such as fly ash and slag. The use of green concrete reduced carbon dioxide emissions and contributed to sustainable construction practices.
The construction industry is becoming more sustainable by using higher-grade materials and minimising wastage. Advanced technologies like machine cuts and software design are aiding in this effort, as they help reduce material wastage and contribute to the industry’s goal of lowering its carbon footprint. A prime example of this is the widespread adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the Middle East, which optimises material usage and minimises waste in construction projects.
New design approaches like modular and panelised construction, along with hybrid solutions, are playing a crucial role in supporting the sustainable construction industry. For example, AIN Dubai, the world’s largest Ferris wheel, incorporated modular construction techniques for faster construction and reduced environmental impact. Similarly, the Opus building in Dubai used panelised construction methods for more efficient assembly and minimised waste generation during the building process.
The government’s backing through regulations and policies also facilitates the swift adoption of new technologies in the construction sector. For instance, the Saudi Green Building Forum (SGBF) serves as a platform to advocate sustainable design approaches and green building guidelines for projects in Saudi Arabia. This encourages architects and builders to embrace environmentally friendly practices. By implementing policies that promote the utilisation of such technologies, regulators can further create an environment conducive to sustainable construction practices.
Reducing waste, maximising efficiency
Embracing sustainable construction is not only beneficial for the environment but also advantageous for the construction industry as a whole. The Middle East has set ambitious sustainability goals, such as the UAE’s Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to increase the share of clean energy in its total energy mix to 50% and reduce carbon emissions by 70%. Such goals highlight the urgency of adopting sustainable construction practices in the region.
Sustainable construction facilitates carbon-neutral and negative construction practices while reducing wastage in materials and time, resulting in cost savings. Additionally, the industry benefits from reduced expenses associated with the disposal of non-recyclable materials. According to the World Green Building Council, construction and demolition waste make up about 30% of all global waste generated. By embracing sustainable construction methods in the Middle East, a significant reduction in waste and resource consumption can be achieved.
The call for a sustainable construction industry is an urgent one, more so now than ever before. Construction waste and non-recyclable materials pile up in landfills, posing significant environmental risks. The ‘Muda,’ a Japanese term meaning the reduction in wastefulness, should not only be a guideline in manufacturing but also in general construction. Efforts towards reversing this trend are necessary – such as Dubai Municipality’s ‘Zero Waste’ initiative aiming to divert 100% of construction and demolition waste from landfills.
To achieve a sustainable construction industry, it is crucial for architecture and construction firms to collaborate effectively. This initiative involves various stakeholders, including the government, investors, developers, architects, designers, construction industries, and customers.
The government plays a pivotal role by enacting policies that support sustainable construction and incentivise innovative and eco-friendly approaches. Investors and developers contribute by funding initiatives geared towards sustainability. Architects and designers continuously research and develop new materials and methods that promote environmental friendliness.
Incorporating new trends and technologies, the construction industries actively participate in the drive towards sustainability. Customers also play a significant role by demanding and supporting sustainable solutions in the built environment. This collaborative effort can lead to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious construction industry.
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A sustainable construction industry relies on the foundation laid by architecture and design. Progress towards sustainability will be achieved by integrating new materials, technologies, and innovative design approaches. To expedite this transformation, government regulations and policies play a crucial role in facilitating the adoption of these advancements, requiring collaborative efforts from all industry stakeholders.
Ultimately, the environment and the construction industry will both benefit significantly from these combined endeavours, fostering a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.