Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has urged the construction sector to integrate sustainable practices in creating a more sustainable built environment
With the implementation of district cooling, the companies could achieve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions from energy, said Ahmad bins Shafar, CEO of Empower.
District cooling, which has been included in the UN?s top energy efficiency accelerators, has been successfully implemented in major developments in the country. As it manages cooling resources on the district level, it provides advantages in densely populated areas with huge demands for air-conditioning, with less impact on the environment.
Cooling buildings, a process that takes up 60-70 per cent of energy consumption in facilities, is one of the biggest challenges faced by the UAE and the Middle East. Massive use of energy from conventional sources contributes to the rise of global carbon emissions in the atmosphere. According to the researchers, the emissions could further rise by two per cent in 2017.
Empower noted that international organisations and governments have been working to regulate the processes and use of materials in the global construction industry to reduce its impact on the environment.
Bin Shafar said, ?The call for more sustainable practices and technologies in the built environment sector grows even stronger with the launch of new ambitions to create smart cities. The green revolution in the construction sector can only take off through concerted efforts, commitment and constant conversation within the industry regarding ways to integrate energy-efficient technologies.?
He further explained that the UAE is one of the countries in the region which has a strong mandate to institutionalise energy efficiency and implement smarter resource management practices to create a green economy under the UAE Vision 2021.
?With the continuing urbanisation across the region, it is inevitable for cities to invest heavily in infrastructure development. However, it is important that the sector constantly addresses these concerns especially in venues where there is a wider reach such as the Big 5. We are positive that a greener future is possible through cooperation among various stakeholders,? Bin Shafar concluded.
