Environmental Impact of Buildings Takes Center Stage in the Middle East Region

Strategic Insights -

The Middle East region is taking a serious stance against the environmental impact of buildings, with construction projects accounting for 50 per cent of regional carbon emissions. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is at the forefront of the movement, hosting a conference program at the 11th Water Technology, Energy and Environment Exhibition 2009 (WETEX) to address key issues such as green building, environmentally-friendly technologies, and renewable energy. The conference is designed to provide senior management executives with a platform to discuss and debate the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, including green buildings, which can save up to 40 per cent of electricity and water compared to standard buildings.

Key Takeaways:

  • The construction industry is responsible for 50 per cent of regional carbon emissions in the Middle East region.
  • DEWA is hosting a conference program at WETEX 2009 to address key issues related to green building, environmentally-friendly technologies, and renewable energy.
  • Green buildings can save up to 40 per cent of electricity and water compared to standard buildings, according to studies conducted by Dubai Municipality.
  • A growing number of UAE initiatives are being implemented to encourage developers to build green, with a focus on redirecting efforts towards renewable energy.
  • Arab nations are expected to spend US$120 billion on new power projects by 2012 to meet rising water and electricity needs.
  • Developers, architects, and construction companies must adapt to the new green building regulations and identify opportunities for using renewable energy.
  • DEWA has appointed naseba as the official organizer of the WETEX conference, following their successful partnership in the Global Water Management Congress 2008.
  • The WETEX 2009 conference will provide a platform for regional and international professionals to discuss energy conservation, water, and electricity challenges with industry experts.

Statistics:

  • 50 per cent - The percentage of regional carbon emissions attributed to the construction industry in the Middle East region.
  • 40 per cent - The percentage of electricity and water that green buildings can save compared to standard buildings, according to Dubai Municipality studies.
  • US$120 billion - The amount of investment Arab nations are expected to make in new power projects by 2012 to meet rising water and electricity needs.

Sources:

  • Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
  • WETEX 2009 (11th Water Technology, Energy and Environment Exhibition)
  • Global Water Management Congress 2008
  • naseba (international business information company)
  • Dubai Municipality
  • Asia Pulse
  • WAM (news agency)