Chairman’s · change the Early Years education landscape in Dubai. Located in Nakheel’s...

As heads of states, ministers and representatives from governments, international organisations, and companies, as well as experts in energy affairs from 170 countries, descended in the UAE capital last month at the World Future Energy Summit, global attention was drawn to a wide range of new global-energy directions, the role of cities in the face of climate change, the future of smart grid solutions and opportunities and risks associated with the commercial development and operation of solar energy plants and wind power, amongst others.

WFES has emerged as a global summit to discuss energy security and its future and ensuring development and innovation in sustainable energy around the world. One of the greatest incentives for the UAE’s commitment to build and develop a greener economy is the full support it receives from its wise leadership towards fulfilling the objective of building a green and sustainable future.

The energy summit was not only a forum to address the current challenges facing the energy sector but also served as a platform for the creation of new business opportunities in renewable and clean energy thereby enhancing the UAE’s leadership in renewable energy investments to support the sustainable development of the nation.

The UAE government’s continuous support towards environmental preservation and sustainable development in the country has made it a leading developer and implementer of strong environmental programs at the regional and international levels. The commitment to conserve our resources and ecosystem is enshrined in the UAE 2021 Vision given that environmental protection is an important part of our heritage and a key aspect of our daily lives.

As we celebrate the 18th National Environment Day this month under the theme ‘Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability’, it further accentuates the importance of innovation in the process of transitioning from a traditional economy into a green economy. The UAE has risen to the challenge of developing and applying innovative solutions to protect the environment and ensure its sustainability and as we strengthen the nation’s position on the global innovation map, we are confident of improving our position in innovation from being the first in the Arab region to be among the best globally in the coming years.

Chairman’s Message

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Prof. Mohammed bin FahadExecutive Editor

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Contents

Solar Park 30Capacity of Phase II of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park increased to 200 MW

Energy Savings 56Etihad ESCO and DEWA sign AED 37 million energy savings performance contracts

Clean energy 50Region’s first public wind atlas to support wind energy projects

Roundtable60Experts call for greater awareness to root out waste with better management

MoU 42UAE signs MoU with UNIDO to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency in GCC

Forum 48The Women in Sustainability, Environment and Renewable Energy (WISER) forum underscored women’s quickly growing contributions to climate change

Solar Challenge 26Michigan University announced champions of Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge; UAE team finishes close behind in second position

Honor 38Dubai’s Emirates Golf Club becomes the first golf club in the MENA region to become GEO Certified

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UAE News 10UAE President calls for positive contribution on National Environment Day

COVER STORY 14Egypt’s president El Sisi opens energy summit in Abu Dhabi with plea for change

WFES 2015 20Zayed Future Energy Prize 2015 winners honored at World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi

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Society &Environment

Executive EditorProf. Mohammed Bin Fahad

Managing EditorDr. Meshgan Al Awar

AdvisorDr. Eisa Abdellatif

EditorSangeetha [email protected]

Design DirectorNash - [email protected]

[email protected]

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Last month, prominent female public figures from around the globe in the fields of renewable energy and sustainability convened at the Women in Sustainability, Environment and Renewable Energy (WISER) forum held during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week to discuss the approaching challenges of energy security, water security, and climate change — and potential means of addressing these issues.

As Secretary General of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, I was honored to be an invitee to participate in this forum that underscored women’s quickly growing contributions to climate change solutions and green growth. The UAE has always encouraged women’s education and

participation in all sectors and the WISER forum reiterated that women leaders, who work to address viable sustainability initiatives, are a priority to the UAE and Expo 2020 Dubai.

Yet another platform that is drawing attention to the UAE’s efforts towards environmental preservation and sustainable development is the celebration of the 18th National Environment Day this month under the slogan ‘Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability’. This annual event not only expresses our national and moral commitment towards maintaining our natural resources but also renews our determination to exert more efforts towards protecting our environment and achieving sustainable development goals which represent the core of the UAE Vision 2021.

We are proud to say that the Zayed International Prize for the Environment will participate in the National Environment Day celebrations this year by organizing the 1st Dubai International Forum on Sustainable Lifestyles on February 25 and 26 in partnership with the UN and the UAE Ministry of Environment & Water. Through this initiative, and by serving as a bridge between local and international organizations to implement strong environmental programs at the regional and international levels, the Zayed Foundation is taking the theme of the National Environment Day forward to the global arena as it is committed to supporting the vision of the nation’s leaders in making the UAE one of the leading countries in the field of green economy.

My sincere National Environment Day wishes to each one of our readers!

From the Managing Editor

Dr. Meshgan Al AwarSecretary General Zayed International Prize for the Environment

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P.O. Box 28399, Dubai, UAE.Tel: +971 4 3326666Fax: +971 4 3326777Website: www.zayedprize.org.aeemail: [email protected]

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February 2015 Society & Environment

In the UAE

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SUAE has key role in global green economyThe UAE occupies a prestigious global position in the movement towards a green economy by implementing a set of innovative initiatives adopted over the previous years, said UAE’s minister of Environment and Water. While launching the UAE State of Green Economy Report 2014 at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) in Abu Dhabi, HE Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, said, “UAE also plays a crucial role in, and effectively contributes to, international efforts to boost its economic approach at the regional and international levels.”

“UAE has decided to steer its course of progress towards a Green Economy and to achieve

green objectives and economic growth simultaneously,” said the minister at the event.

The UAE State of Green Economy Report aims to help the country make solid advances towards a green economy, by providing the public with a clear overview of the government’s plan and diverse public and private efforts, as well as benchmarking the country’s current standing.

The report talks about a study conducted to estimate the impact of greening the UAE economy. A specific macro-economic model was developed for this study, along with a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario and four ambitious green economy scenarios. According to the study, there are many

benefits of a green economy, including reduced consumption of fuels and higher GDP than BAU. For instance, the study says that the expected trade boost from those scenarios was estimated at AED24-47 billion ($6.5-12.8bn) in 2030.

The economic benefits would include reduced domestic consumption of oil by 7-10 per cent per year, natural gas by 7-20 per cent and electricity by 11-15 per cent through 2030.

A reduction in carbon intensity is expected in all four scenarios, ranging between 18-25 per cent of cumulative emissions in the period from 2013-30. The creation of 139,000-165,000 new jobs (1.9-2.3 per cent above

A round-up of recent environment-related happenings in the UAE.

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SBAU) is also anticipated. This detailed study strongly supports the hypothesis that greening the developmental path would not necessarily hinder economic growth for the UAE if it were conducted in the correct way.

Region’s first dedicated LEED Gold certified early years learning facility coming up in Dubai

Dubai’s Ladybird Nursery has announced the building of its Early Learning Center, targeting to be the Region’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Gold certified dedicated Early Year’s Learning Facility. Ladybird’s Early Learning Centre will be located in Jumeirah Village Circle and will cater to children ranging from the

ages of 4 months to 5 years.

Speaking at the announcement, Monica Valrani, CEO of Ladybird Nurseries in Dubai, said, “We want to build a facility that will be every child’s dream. This is a facility that will not only enhance a child’s learning experience but also positively impact the health of our children and staff. At the end of the day, it’s all about our children.”

The US$10 million facility, being designed by Godwin Austin Johnson and constructed by Al Shafar Contracting, is set to change the Early Years education landscape in Dubai. Located in Nakheel’s Jumeirah Village Circle community, the facility is within a 10-minute driving distance

from Emirates Living, Al Barsha, Jumeirah Park, JLT, Motor city and Arabian Ranches.

LEED, or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. The certification program is transforming the way we think about how buildings and communities are designed, constructed, maintained and operated across the globe. LEED certified buildings have a positive impact on the health of occupants, while promoting renewable, clean energy.

Spotlight on sustainability issues at art exhibition Tashkeel, an independent contemporary art organisation

A round-up of recent environment-related happenings in the UAE.


The UAE State of Green Economy Report aims to help the country make solid advances towards a green economy, by providing the public with a clear overview of the government’s plan.


based in Dubai committed to facilitating art and design practice, creative experimentation and cross-cultural dialogue, is now accepting submissions for its upcoming show to be held in March 2015. Titled ‘Sustaining Identity,’ the exhibition seeks to explore what sustainability means within the context of contemporary art. The art organization located in Nad Al Sheba welcomes UAE-based artists of all disciplines to submit original works in any medium aligned to the theme, sustainability.

Submissions should depict the artists’ understanding of the theme within their own practice and/or in relation to the context of the creation, and not have been

previously exhibited. Final works are welcome to be presented in any form of media - ranging from incorporating the theme using existent material such as books, photos, objects, electronic or building materials, newspapers, furniture, natural materials that have nostalgic connotations, to a more diverse media.

“Tashkeel aims to uncover the pressing sustainability issues in our society while acknowledging our obligations and rights to quality of life. Through ‘Sustaining Identity’, we hope to provide artists, and the audience, living in the UAE with a platform to express how sustainable practices are integrated into our lifestyle, architecture and social

structure,” said Tamsin Wildy, Studio Manager at Tashkeel.

Deadline for submission of applications is on 14 February 2015.

Going Green Dulsco collected 86,450 plastic bottles and 4300 glass bottles during the recently held Standard Chartered Dubai marathon and left the city clean and green post this mega event. The Green Team from Dulsco, including staff volunteers and workers, were present at the event to ensure that the recyclables are segregated at source meticulously and later recycled.

Dulsco had placed more than 80 green bins for collecting I

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recyclables and 30 black bins for general waste. Over 100 volunteers from Dulsco were present to manage this process.

S. Madhumohan, Director, Waste Management, Dulsco, said, “This was a mammoth task for us. Our main objective was to educate people at the event and ensure that the waste is put in the right bins and also trigger a behavioural change in them towards the environment.”

Beach reclamation eco-project Located in the capital of the UAE Hilton Abu Dhabi, an Abu Dhabi National Hotel property, has announced the completion of its Dhs8 million eco-friendly beach reclamation project, which has

extended the hotel’s famous Hiltonia Beach Club beachfront on the Abu Dhabi Corniche from 2,000 m2to 11,000m2.

Smart marine expertise and the production of an underwater sea wall are behind the creation of the extended beachfront. The submerged and discreet structure has been formed using custom-designed sand-filled geo textile tubes, which have been eco-engineered to replicate natural environments.

Now in place, the sea wall, which mimics a natural fringing reef, allows waves to break offshore to protect the beachfront from erosion. With this protection, algae are likely to grow first, which will then attract crabs, shrimps

and fish overtime.

Daniel Chamberlain, Director of Sports and Leisure, Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi said: “As an internationally recognized Blue Flag standard beach and the region’s most eco-friendly Hilton Worldwide hotel, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We have taken major steps to ensure that this exciting beach extension project protects and preserves our marine environment, while also enhancing guests’ experience.”

To celebrate the announcement, Hiltonia Beach Club has launched a new membership package valid from now until March 2015, with annual memberships starting from Dhs 8,200.

Hilton Abu Dhabi has completed

its Dhs8 million eco-friendly

beach reclamation project, which

has extended its beachfront

from 2,000 m2to 11,000m2.

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National Environment Day is an important occasion when the UAE’s government and people renew their national and moral commitment to preserve environmental resources, says UAE President Khalifa.

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UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has called on society

to contribute positively in shouldering its responsibility to preserve the environment.

“National Environment Day, organised by the UAE for the 18th year in a row, is an important occasion when the UAE’s government and people renew their national and moral commitment to preserve environmental resources,” said Sheikh Khalifa.

In his speech on the 18th UAE National Environment Day celebrations, which falls on February 4 every year, the UAE President added: “We pay much interest to the National Environment Day when, through official and public efforts, we shed light on the environment and

give importance to the issue.”

He added: “The organisers of the event have chosen the right slogan for it, which is: “Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability” for three years in a row. The management of the economy’s green sustainability aims at preserving the environmental and heritage resources, protection of our daily lives and securing all factors that contribute to prosperity, health and stability of every individual, as well as ensuring protection of the rights of the coming generations.”

Sheikh Khalifa called upon officials dealing with environmental affairs to reform policies and legislation to help control urban and industrial activities that lead to an increase in carbon emissions and pollution, and, at the same time, encourage economic

activities which depend on clean renewable energy.

“This call is aimed to support the UAE’s national initiative, launched in 2012, to make our country a pioneer in the green economy field and a hub for export and re-export of green products and technologies,” Sheikh Khalifa added.

At the end of his speech, Shaikh Khelifa praised the efforts exerted by the participating individuals, institutions and departments in organisation and success of the event, urging all segments of society to contribute effectively towards preserving and developing the environment and its components.

Hamdan bin Mubarak launches ‘Green Economy - Innovation and

UAE President calls for positive contribution on National Environment Day

UAE Environment Day


THE SOLAR CHALLENGE brings clean technology to life and highlights Abu Dhabi’s role as a leader in the sector.

UAE President calls for positive contribution on National Environment Day

Sustainability’ Award

In celebration of the 18th National Environment Day, and in implementation of the objectives of the national initiatives launched by the UAE leadership, to build a competitive, knowledge-based, green, and sustainable economy, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, has launched the Green Economy - Innovation and Sustainability Award.

Sheikh Hamdan said that the leadership is harnessing all its capabilities so that UAE nationals can be one of the happiest peoples of the world. “The State has achieved, in all of its sectors, strong competitive indicators at the regional and international levels, and to maintain

these indicators and achieve higher rankings it is necessary to work and persevere and provide unlimited giving, and since we are going to build a green, sustainable, competitive and knowledge economy, this requires continuing on the path of scientific research, innovation and creativity, the aim of this award is to encourage our students to direct their interests and research in areas that support a green economy in the UAE,” he said.

The award is an embodiment of the initiative of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which was launched in January 2012 under the slogan, “Green Economy for Sustainable Development”, to make the UAE one of the world leaders in this area. It is also the embodiment

of the four-track National Strategy for Innovation Initiative, launched by His Highness in October 2014, one of which seeks to establish an environment conducive to innovation, supportive to incubators of innovation, and builder of specialised national cadres that possess high skills in innovation through the consolidation of a national culture that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Minister said that he launched the award because he believes that students are the foundation for achieving the goals of these initiatives, by directing them to areas of research and innovation in the fields required for the transformation to a green economy and clean technology, in order to contribute their creativity and research to achieving the optimal exploitation of wealth and natural


resources, while preserving the environment, and build the capacity in order to achieve sustainable development according to the UAE Vision 2021.

The annual award aims to motivate UAE undergraduate and graduate students both inside the State and abroad, in order to utilise their skills and scientific abilities in the competition to reach the best scientific innovation in the subjects of sustainable environment, enhancement of natural resources, clean energies, adaptation to climate change, green life, and optimal use of resources. The award consists of four categories: Scholarship Undergraduate Students Award, Scholarship Graduate Students Award, Undergraduate Students in Public and Accredited Private Higher

Education Institutions in the State Award, and Graduate Students in Public and Accredited PrivateHigher Education Institutions inthe State Award.

Among the most important evaluation criteria are the correlation between the submitted project and the UAE’s priority in sustainable development as per the UAE Vision 2021 and the National Agenda, and the level of creativity in terms of tradition and modernity in the project, and the project’s readiness in efficiency and performance in solving the targeted problem in areas of sustainable development, in addition to the possibility of achieving interest and the applications resulting from implementation of the project, the viability of the product and the size of financial returns when converted to

an economic project or adopting it in existing companies.

There will be one valuable prize for each category of the award. Submission of applications will commence in March, and end on May 30th, while the results will be announced in October. There will also be introductory workshops about the award in universities.

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The fast-growing market for water and wastewater treatment equipment in the

GCC, currently estimated to be $2.2 billion and expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 10.6 percent to reach $4 billion by 2020, is shifting toward sustainable business practices, wastewater treatment and recycling, according to a white paper released by Frost & Sullivan on January 20, 2014 at the International Water Summit (IWS).

IWS, along with the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) and the EcoWaste exhibition, opened on 19th January in Abu Dhabi. It is part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, which was held from 17-24 January, and attracted more than 32,000 people from 170 countries. Hosted by Masdar, the week’s events addressed

the interconnected challenges of energy and water security, climate risk and sustainable development.

The White Paper, “360 Degree Perspective on the GCC Water and Wastewater Treatment Market,” outlines the main drivers in the GCC water and wastewater market as water scarcity and security, growth of urban populations, and an expanding industrial sector. The report was prepared by Frost & Sullivan and it is now available on the IWS website at http://iwsabudhabi.com/portal/frost-and-sullivan-white-paper.aspx

“The focus of the water sector in the region is surely shifting towards sustainable practices, wastewater treatment, and recycling, with several utilities and water agencies announcing noticeable projects

indicating start of a technological turnaround for the region,” said Kshitij Nilkanth, program manager, Energy and Environment Practice, MENA, Frost & Sullivan. “Governments in the GCC have allocated approximately $100 billion towards implementing better water technologies and energy-efficient desalination.”

Nilkanth also noted the importance of the water-energy nexus for tomorrow’s sustainable cities, saying: “Going forward, ‘Green’ will be replaced with ‘Smart’ Concepts. Energy, city planning, and information and communication systems will be the key elements of a Smart City. Smart cities will be driven by increasing demand for water itself, aging system infrastructure, and a need among utilities to operate their systems much more efficiently.”

Fast-growing GCC water and wastewater treatmentmarket shifting toward sustainable business practices

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The eighth World Future Energy Summit began with a plea from Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for global action to address climate change.


His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President

and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, attended the opening of the eighth annual session of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, in the presence of Egyptian President, Abdul Fattah el-Sisi.

The opening of the summit, on 19th January, was also attended by a number of presidents and representatives of a number of sisterly and friendly countries, a host of leading personalities, experts and scholars, and those with interest in

the energy sector from around the world.

Keynote AddressIn a keynote statement, during the 8th session of the World Future Energy Summit, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, greeted and thanked UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and the UAE Government for the warm welcome and hospitality given during his visit to the country.

As he addressed the importance of renewable energy, the Egyptian

President commended Masdar’s outstanding efforts in hosting and organising the World Energy Summit, which, he said, highlights the UAE’s leading role at the global level in promoting renewable energy and the concept of sustainable development.

The President stressed Egypt’s commitment to addressing its long term energy security and its plans to expand its reliance on renewable energy to 20 percent by 2020. He also outlined that this target will be achieved through a comprehensive energy strategy, which includes reforms that support the adoption of all sources of energy.

“As part of the strategy, Egypt plans to build a 4,300 megawatt of solar and wind power over the next three years,” he said, adding that

Egypt’s president el-Sisi opens energy summit in Abu Dhabi with plea for change

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ADSW ALSO FEATURED the seventh Zayed Future Energy Prize Award Ceremony and coincided with the Fifth General Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency.

Egypt must leverage its strategic geographic location and infrastructure to make the country an economic hub.

El-Sisi pointed to the strong historical relations and links that the UAE and Egypt share, which were established by the late Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, and praised the historical stance of the UAE government and its people in supporting the aspirations and needs of the Egyptian people through two revolutions.

President el-Sisi went on to say that the World Future Energy Summit is an international forum which brings forth vital discussions and challenges facing the energy, water and sustainable development sectors. He noted that the global energy consumption has doubled in the last four decades, and experts expect the numbers to double

again by 2050. Coupled with the fact that more than1.3 billion people in the world are living without a source of electricity, half of them in Africa, the situation calls for concerted efforts to address this problem, which is impeding the march of progress in sisterly African nations.

In his speech, the Egyptian President also talked about the situation in the Arab world, and the rest of the world, referring to the growing phenomenon of terrorism, as he warned against false interpretations of the concepts of Islam, and denounced terrorism and acts that terrorise innocent citizens.

“Addressing these challenges requires a conscious partnership with the international community,” he said. el-Sisi also called for the revision

of religious sermons to ensure they are free from misconceptions, and stressed the importance of improving the quality of education, and connecting education to the labour market. “Meeting these challenges requires us to redouble our efforts,” he noted.

el-Sisi went on to say, “The largest proportion of refugees in the world come from our region, and the largest proportion of aid provided goes to us. Look after your nations, it is change not destruction that is needed,” stressing that Egypt is ready to confront any threat to the security of the Gulf, adding that the Gulf region is a red line and an integral part of Egypt’s national security.

In closing, the President extended his invitation to the Egypt Economic


Forum, due to be held in March at Sharm Al Sheikh, where Egypt’s economic vision and its unified regulations and investment opportunities will be shared with the global community.

Later, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi also visited Masdar’s exhibition stand at World Future Energy Summit (WFES 2015) where he was briefed by Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State and Chairman of Masdar, on the company’s clean energy projects in the UAE and other countries.

The summit, held under the theme: “Powering the Future of Energy Innovation”, saw the participation of a number of heads of states and governments, representatives of international organisations,

international companies and experts.

Before the opening ceremony, General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces met with heads of state, ministers and industry leaders attending the summit. He valued their attendance to share and discuss sustainable solutions to tackle present and future energy challenges and secure energy to present and future generations.

In his remarks on the occasion, Sheikh Mohamed said the UAE under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan attaches paramount importance to concerted efforts aimed at securing safe, clean and sustainable energy as the a mainstay for stability and growth

in various parts of the world.

Sheikh Mohamed welcomed high-profile delegates including heads of state, energy leaders and experts, who gathered in Abu Dhabi to address wide-ranging agenda including energy and water security and supply and best ways to enable future generations live in a sustainable environment.

He noted that Africa has huge potentials that need deployment of sustainable development to preserve its vital resources but only for Africans but also for the whole world.

“Energy is the backbone of all development activities and its importance is increasing in arid regions for the need to power water desalination stations. We cannot

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speak about sustainable development away from security of basic resource: water and energy,” Sheikh Mohamed asserted.

The UAE, he added, was making tremendous efforts in planning for the future and drawing policies that seek to secure vital resources. ‘’The UAE will remain adhere to this civilisational approach to unite the international efforts for addressing this challenges.’’

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi also credited Masdar, organisers of the summit, for positioning the UAE on the world renewable energy map and for its initiatives in energy and sustainable development. Efforts, he affirmed, will continue to ensure security of energy through diversification of resources and support of promising renewable energy technology.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region, Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region, Sheikh Saif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Surour bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor, Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister, Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al

Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, and a number of members of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, senior officials, CEOs and delegates.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), International Water Summit (IWS) and EcoWaste all opened their four-day exhibitions and conferences on 19th January, showcasing the latest in technological innovations to provide commercial solutions to the

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

(ADSW) is a yearly platform to address

the interconnected challenges of

energy and water security, climate

risk and sustainable development.



interconnected challenges of clean energy generation, water security, and waste management.

Delivering the keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the eighth World Future Energy Summit (WFES), Dr. Ahmad Belhoul, CEO of Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company, stressed the need to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy as a commercially viable technology to meet the world’s rising demand for electricity.

“Like any technology, clean energy has optimized its performance and reduced its cost over time, and in various parts of the world, renewable energy is out-competing traditional power,” said Dr. Ahmad Belhoul. “With surging populations, coupled

with finite resources, we must pursue all forms of energy, conventional, unconventional and alternative. This requires that we re-think the relationship between traditional and new forms of power, and that energy must not only coexist, but work in harmony.”

Dr. Belhoul also addressed the growing momentum in the Middle East to adopt renewable energy.

“This region’s appetite for renewable energy has quickly taken shape,” said Dr. Belhoul, “with Abu Dhabi taking the first steps almost a decade ago. As our neighbours join us in the race to adopt renewable energy, Masdar’s regional and global experience will reinforce efforts to address energy security through the deployment of renewable power.” Dr. Belhoul

concluded the address by emphasizing how the World Future Energy Summit presents an opportunity to share experiences and forge partnerships that will enable the region and the world to diversify the energy mix.

ADSW attracted more than 32,000 people from 170 countries, representing leading players in industry, government, finance and research who participated in numerous high-level panel discussions, workshops and trade-floor product exhibitions with an impressive array of groundbreaking technologies on display.

In the clean-energy sector, attendees were able to view such groundbreaking technologies as:

• A first-of-its-kind, fully integrated hybrid product that seamlessly


captures both solar and wind energy to provide more consistent power generation in off-grid locations. This product provides an effective solution in markets where available natural resources do not justify investment in a solar or wind project.

• A mobile solar power plant on a trailer with a 4.8 kWp capacity and battery storage of up to 20 kWh and includes a water pump that can produce 1,000 liters a minute. The setup time is only 3 minutes, and also is attractive for off-grid locations.

• A new turbine that converts energy from sea waves, whose high-energy density is the highest among renewable energy sources, demonstrates the technological advances being made in the emerging wave energy industry.

• Parabolic sun-dish concentrators

combined with a specialized steam generator suitable for enhanced oil recovery, power generation, water desalination operations and power generations.

Water technologies on display included:• A vending machine that produces,

on a daily basis, 1,800 liters of pure water from air; the machine accepts coins or credit card and dispenses water in three, pre-set quantities.

• A fully automated technology which reuses resources in the degradation process to treat contaminated soils. Using on-line sensor data, the product calculates the injections necessary to perform an optimal degradation of organic pollution in soil or groundwater, and is able to treat large volumes of contaminated soil.

• A water-retention product mixed with soil that can reduce water irrigation by 40 percent.

In the area of waste management, attendees witnessed revolutionary composting machines that convert organic waste into high-grade compost within 24 hours, as well as powerful hydraulic waste-handling machines suitable for both scrap and timber disposal.

World Future Energy Summit is

the Middle East’s largest gathering

of international leaders to drive

viable solutions to address the

world’s pressing energy challenges.



HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi honor Zayed Future Energy Prize 2015 winners.


His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and

Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, confirmed that under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has become a center of gravity for the encouragement and incubation of innovation for those who seek to find solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed made his remarks during the seventh Zayed Future Energy Prize awards ceremony, part of the current Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2015.

During the ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and

Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, and Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, honoured the winners of the prize.

H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also emphasised the importance of moving forward in the modernisation and development efforts with a commitment to the principles of sustainable development – noting the importance of focusing on energy from other vital resources such as food and water that are considered the spinal cord of all human development.

“It all starts with an idea – and our bid to honour and continue the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – who advocated for education and the development of human resources throughout his lifetime. We aim to encourage the bright minds and the

innovators to find practical solutions for our world’s challenges on a path towards a better future built on the pillars and foundations of sustainability,” he said.

His Highness also emphasised the importance of catalysing the international and multilateral action towards promoting energy and water security, sustainable development and improving the social and economic sustainability mankind.

His Highness congratulated the winners of the 2015 Zayed Future Energy Prize, who, he said, have opened up new horizons to innovation in clean energy and sustainability with a unique vision that is reflective of the principles and foundations set forth by the founding father of the UAE. In its 7th year, the Prize awarded

‘UAE committed to global climate challenges’

Cover Story


THE ZAYED FUTURE ENERGY PRIZE has an award fund of US$4 million, which is distributed among the winners in the various categories.

‘UAE committed to global climate challenges’

10 winners for their outstanding achievements in advancing renewable energy and sustainability worldwide.

Amongst the winners included the president of an Arab nation, a former US vice-president and five enterprising educational institutions. The awards were handed out in 10 categories as part of the opening ceremony of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES). Former United States vice-president and climate change activist Al Gore received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the field of sustainability and for efforts that aim to reduce climate change.

In a new category, Egyptian President Abdul Fattah el-Sisi was presented the first Honorary Award for his commitment to sustainability. During his opening address, el-Sisi said Egypt

is working to increase its reliance on renewables to 20 per cent by 2020, and to install 4,300 megawatts of wind and solar power over the next three years.

President el-Sisi was awarded the prize in appreciation of his efforts in the fields of using clean energy in Egypt, especially the wind and solar energy, as well as the projects which are currently being implemented in Egypt.

This year, the Prize received nearly 1,000 entries in eight competitive categories. Winners chosen were awarded a total of $4 million (Dh14.69 million). The annual US$4 million prize, established by the United Arab Emirates, recognises companies, organisations, schools and individuals around the world that have made significant contributions

to the future of renewable energy and sustainability.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Director-General of the Zayed Future Energy Prize, thanked His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan for his enduring support and leadership which he referred to as the “driving force behind the Prize’s success.”

He added, “Our leadership established this prize in honour of the legacy and teachings of our late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, God Rest his Soul, who laid the foundations for the importance of sustainable development. The UAE continues on this path through the wise leadership of the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa


bin Zayed Al Nahyan by building bridges of collaboration with the international community in order to face the challenges facing the world today.”

He added that the Zayed Future Energy Prize re-affirms the UAE’s commitment towards supporting, developing and deploying renewable energy and sustainability solutions in the UAE and around the world; highlighting that addressing climate change is a shared responsibility and will require a large amount of continuous collaboration between governments, institutions and individuals to take action. He emphasized that success will only be achieved through innovation and unique action that will leave a lasting positive imprint on the world.

Since 2009, the Zayed Future

Energy Prize ambassadors have positively impacted the lives of over 150 million people - delivering clean drinking water, electrifying rural areas, educating the next generation and creating hundreds of sustainable jobs.

Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, President of the Republic of Iceland and Chair of the Zayed Future Energy Prize Jury, said, “The social inclusivity of the Prize allows even the next generation to play a role in delivering a sustainable future. By funding clean energy projects in schools, the Prize sets the tone for another generation of energy leaders who will continue its great work around the world.”

The Global High Schools category – now in its third year – was launched to recognise and encourage young people to incorporate renewable energy and

sustainability into their schools.

Five schools, from five global regions, each received US$100,000 to fund their proposed sustainability projects. The winners are: Munro Academy from the Americas region; Petru Rares National College representing Europe; Waterford Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa (UWCSA) from Swaziland and representing Africa, Addu High School in the Republic of the Maldives for the Asia region and Melbourne High School in Australia representing Oceania.

Finalists of the 2015 Zayed Future Energy Prize were later awarded at a special ceremony by Dr. Sultan Al Jaber and Olafur Ragnar Grimsson with a certificate of participation.

Panasonic, the multinational electronics manufacturer, won


recognition in the Large Corporation category for a long-standing commitment to social, economic, and environmental sustainability throughout the company’s operations. The company is best known in renewable energy as the perennial world record holder for solar PV cell efficiency and expanding the market opportunity for solar power worldwide.

In the SME category, M-KOPA Solar was awarded US$1.5 million for its innovative approach to deploying solar electricity to rural villages in Kenya and Uganda, delivering access to affordable energy to rural communities that need it most. To date, the company has sold more than 100,000 solar home systems.

Social enterprise, Litre of Light was awarded US$1.5 million in the NPO

category. Using recycled plastic bottles, water and bleach to create solar lanterns, the small volunteer group, established as part of the relief efforts during the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan, has expanded to 15 countries, and has installed lanterns in more than 350,000 homes.

Former US Vice President Al Gore is the fourth recipient of the Zayed Future Energy Prize Lifetime Achievement award. Gore was recognised for his unwavering personal and political commitment to raise international awareness about the dangers of climate change, while reinforcing optimism that the global community can successfully tackle the challenge.

Waterford Kambhala was rewarded for its student-led project to install photovoltaic panels, wind turbines

and a biogas digester in an effort to become carbon neutral by 2024.

Munro Academy in Canada was selected for a two-part proposal to increase the share of onsite renewable energy generation from 83 percent to 92 percent by adding a 15 kW solar photovoltaic system, while students construct solar air-heating units.

Addu High School, from southern Maldives, won the award for a proposal to be the first school in the country to achieve energy independence by installing a 45 kW solar photovoltaic system. The Maldives is an area under threat of rising sea levels due to climate change.

Petru Rares National College, a 150-year old Romanian school, was selected for its student-led building

the UAE has become a center of

gravity for the encouragement and

incubation of innovation for those

who seek to find solutions to the

world’s most pressing challenges.



restoration project, which will reduce energy consumption by 70 percent through the installation of LED lighting and solar panels.

Australian high school, Melbourne Girls’ College won for its proposal to develop an interactive, renewable-energy education centre. Students will research and learn about renewable energy, as well as harness electricity by rowing and pedaling solar, wind and hydro machines.

Yoshihiko Yamada, Executive Vice President, Panasonic Group, said, “As a multinational corporation we are fully committed to making further contributions to global sustainability and promoting environmental initiatives through our product lines and operations. This is a commitment we would like to express

to our customers and leaders in the international community.”

Jesse Moore, co-founder and Managing Director M-KOPA Solar, said, “The prize brings global recognition to M-KOPA Solar’s business model and the opportunity to bring affordable solar power to people who live off the grid using mobile technologies. As with mobile communications, we believe the impact of “wireless” technologies will transform energy in developing world economies and improve the lives of millions of low-income consumers.”

Illac Angelo Diaz, Executive Director, Liter of Light, said, “The purest form of charity is to make yourself obsolete. This is why the Liter of Light uses an open source platform to teach skills in building solar bottle lights using

locally available materials so that clean energy from the sun is easily attainable for everyone around the world.”

Al Gore, former Vice President of the United States, speaking on his Lifetime Achievement Award, said, “Sheikh Zayed founded this way of thinking and this commitment to a positive vision of the future of the world, and I wish there were more leaders that had this kind of a commitment to developing a positive future. The Zayed Future Energy Prize provides needed encouragement to people who are doing good work that benefits the future of human kind. It recognises what they are doing, encourages others to seek out the same kind of recognition.”

Ben Green, Head of Experimental Sciences, Waterford Kamhlaba, United World College of Southern Africa Global


High Schools, said, “We recognise our responsibility to make the best use of energy resources and we will work very hard to make sure that Waterford Kamhlaba uses the prize to both generate and save energy.

“We will use the Zayed Future Energy Prize to inspire a whole generation of students from around the world to believe that they too can make a difference by using sustainable technologies. We thank you for your support and are looking forward to making our school a leader of sustainability in Swaziland.”

Doug Beane, Principal of Munro Academy, said, “Through the Zayed Future Energy Prize, we have seen clearly the phenomenal creative potential of students to wrestle with complex problems and come up

with positive solutions. It is a real blessing to be able to partner with students in becoming transformation agents in our community. On behalf of our students and the community members who will be impacted by this prize, I want to express our appreciation for awarding us the Zayed Future Energy Prize.”

Ibrahim Nadheem, Principal, Addu High School, said, “We have faced many challenges on our way here, but each has only strengthened us more to reach such recognition. This acknowledgment could not have been achieved without our students who have made this milestone a reality. We will proudly hold up this Prize as a mark of our achievement and become a role model in sustainable renewable energy to our community as well as to the whole world.”

Alexandru Iacob, geography teacher at the Petru Rares National College, said, “This prize is the highest achievement in the history of our school, and the entire team is very proud. We will have the opportunity to use the prize to establish Petru Rares National College as a creative leading school for the sustainable development and environmental preservation.”

Andrew Vance, Sustainability Coordinator at Melbourne Girls’ College, said, “Our philosophy toward sustainability at Melbourne Girls’ College is to celebrate solutions rather than preach about disasters. The Zayed Future Energy Prize is an inspiration as it has enabled us to think outside the box and come up with some innovative ways to engage our community with renewable energy.”

Since 2009, the Zayed Future Energy Prize

ambassadors have positively impacted the

lives of over 150 million people - delivering

clean drinking water, electrifying rural

areas, educating the next generation and

creating hundreds of sustainable jobs.



Michigan University announced champions of Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge; USA team beat 13 others with UAE team close behind in second over finish line at Shams solar power station.


His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President

and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, honoured the winners of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge (ADSC), the first ever International Solarcar Federation (ISF) sanctioned event to be held in the UAE.

The honouring ceremony took place following the opening ceremony of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES 2015) on 19th January at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

Team Michigan University crossed

the finish line first after travelling 11,009 kilometres in three days leaving behind the host emirate’s team Petroleum Institute and Belgium’s team Punch Power Train in second and third place, respectively.

Noah Kaczor, 22, who drove team Michigan’s car first over the finish line described Abu Dhabi as the ideal place for such challenges.

The multi-day cross-country road competition took place from 15th-19th January 2015, starting and finishing in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. It is the first event of its kind to be held in the Middle East and was open to solar car teams from countries all over the world.

The Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge, is sponsored by Abu Dhabi National

Oil Company (ADNOC). Hosted by Masdar, it is part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

After an eventful day on the roads of the Western Region, teams completed the 418km journey which is the longest distance of all the days. Navigating the roads from Shams Solar Power Plant through the Abu Dhabi sand dunes to Liwa Desert, before returning back to Shams, the teams were put through their paces.

It was neck and neck to the end of the Challenge between home team Petroleum Institute and the Michigan team, visiting from the USA. Both teams performed highly throughout the event, with an impressive performance from PI who were competing for the first time in asolar challenge.

Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge winners honoured

Cover Story


THE SOLAR CHALLENGE brings clean technology to life and highlights Abu Dhabi’s role as a leader in the sector.

Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge winners honoured

With all 14 cars crossing the finish line, these teams are demonstrating that their solar cars are capable of travelling and withstanding long distances across varied road and traffic conditions, in real world driving scenarios.

A large crowd of school children from the Western Region were there to welcome the teams over the finish line with cheers and celebrations, including their home team.

Dr. Nawal Al Hosany, Director of Sustainability, Masdar, said, “Masdar is proud to be a part of something which encourages and inspires the future generation, and we hope that the excitement of today will capture the minds of the school children who attended - encouraging them to take an interest in renewable energy and clean tech.”

The first solar challenge competition to be held in the region, saw students from Australia, the Middle East, Europe, America and Asia compete in the cross-country road event.

Noah Kaczor, the driver who crossed the finish line for Michigan University, said: “It’s a dream come true to have won the first ever Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge. This has been an incredible experience for us and we are thrilled that all our hard work has paid off. We faced tough competition from some great teams from all over the world. Abu Dhabi was an ideal location for an event like this, and we look forward to coming back for future events and hopefully defending our title!”

After a qualifying stage at Yas Marina Circuit, the teams took to the roads of Abu Dhabi, to drive through the city

and desert, using only sunlight as their fuel. They had to factor in a variety of elements and road conditions to get the best performance out of their cars.

Masdar’s global reputation as a renewable-energy pioneer helped bring the solar challenge to Abu Dhabi. The company’s mission to advance clean energy, along with Abu Dhabi’s role as an international energy hub, made the emirate an ideal location for the solar-car competition.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul, CEO of Masdar, said: “We are proud to have hosted this iconic event and extend our congratulations to all of the teams involved, especially the winners, Michigan State. They can be proud of the determination and commitment they have demonstrated in winning. For the Petroleum Institute to finish


second in their first ever solar challenge event is also a great achievement. We wish them all the best of luck for their next competition.”

“The Challenge has brought innovation in clean energy technology to life, and highlights Abu Dhabi’s leadership in the sector. Its legacy will live on in the inspiring message it will deliver for young people across the country.”

Dan Eberle, Race Director, Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge, said: “Congratulations to the University of Michigan on winning the Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge. It was a close run with less than five minutes separating them and the UAE team, the Petroleum Institute. The team performed fantastically in their debut solar competition. It is many years since we have seen a team do so well their first

time out. They have done themselves and the country proud.”

“I’d also like to congratulate the rest of our competitors for a great Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge. The Challenge was conducted with the spirit and ethos of solar challenges around the world.”

The teams travelled approximately 1,200km across Abu Dhabi emirate, between 16 and 19 January, before finishing in the UAE capital.

The event has helped showcase to the world many of the things that make the UAE the country that it is today, including its position as a pioneer at the cutting edge of energy efficiency technology as well as its investment in youth, science, engineering, education and innovation.

According to Dr. Nawal Al Hosany,

“Masdar is proud to host the Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge. In highlighting what can be achieved when human ingenuity meets cutting edge clean technology, it also promises to help inspire future generations of engineers and scientists.”

Abu Dhabi welcomed teams from Australia, Europe, America and Asia, including a number of familiar faces on the solar challenge circuit. Teams included The University of Michigan from the USA, Tokai University from Japan, and Queensland University of Technology from Australia.

The Petroleum Institute (PI) team represented the UAE. The team has worked tirelessly for months to become one of the solar world’s elite, flying the UAE flag in front of a global audience.


29

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has asked customers to make sure that

there are no leaks in their internal water systems to avoid waste and prevent excessive costs. DEWA is promoting this message to provide services of the highest standards of efficiency and reliability. DEWA’s systems can discover faults in external connections before the metres.

Abdullah Al Hajri, Executive Vice President of Customer Relations at DEWA has urged customers to have their electrical and water connections regularly checked by specialists, and also check for any unjustified increase in the monthly bill. “DEWA seeks to meet the expectations of its customers through innovative ways and tools to enhance the quality of services based on the highest

standards of efficiency and reliability. We apply the latest international technical solutions that are consistent in content and objectives with the Government of Dubai’s focus on adopting innovative approaches to delivering smart services that bring satisfaction and happiness to customers. This helps to achieve the Dubai Plan 2021, to establish Dubai as a smart, integrated, connected and sustainable city,” said Al Hajri.

DEWA has launched three smart initiatives to implement the Smart Dubai initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into the smartest city in the world. The initiatives enhance Dubai’s position as a global model, promote the sustainable

development of the Emirate, and its position as a global hub for trade, finance, tourism, green economy,and sustainability.

These also contribute to achieving a significant advance in the services provided to customers to ensure the management of all city facilities and services through smart and integrated systems. These initiatives include smart applications for fast service connectivity, quick response through instant re-connectivity of electricity, and rationalising consumption by using smart meters to achieve happiness of citizens and residents and support sustainability of resources.

DEWA plans to install 200,000 meters for new subscriptions, and replace all the mechanical and electromechanical meters in the next five years.

Residents urged to examine water connections to avoid excessive costs caused by internal leaks



The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is one of the biggest strategic new Independent Power Producer (IPP) projects in the renewable energy market worldwide.


HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)

has announced that the production capacity of the second phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park will be increased from 100 MW to 200 MW. The announcement was made at a press conference held on 15th January at Grand Hyatt hotel in Dubai.

Phase II of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is a photovoltaic plant that will be based on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model and will be operational by April 2017.

The conference was attended by Mohammad Abunayyan, Chairman of Saudi ACWA, which leads the consortium along with Spain’s TSK,

and Gregory Thomassin, Project Manager and financial advisor at KPMG and Camilo Varas, Technical Advisor at Lahmeyer International.

The conference was also attended by Waleed Salman, EVP of Strategy and Business Development at DEWA, along with EVPs, VPs, DEWA staff, and a large number of media representatives.

“Today, DEWA adds another solar facility at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is one of the largest renewable energy projects in the region. This is in line with directives of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to produce renewable energy locally, sustain our precious resources and support the growth of a promising new sector.

“This is also in alignment with the Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and his vision, which sets the roadmap for our developmental initiatives and projects.

“To implement the Dubai Vision 2021 and to enhance sustainability and create a happy society that meets the aspirations of citizens and residents, DEWA is adding another solar plant at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is one of the largest renewable energy projects in the region. With a planned total cost of AED 12 billion, the Solar Park will produce 1,000 MW of electricity when completed in 2030,”said Al Tayer.

Capacity of Phase II of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park increased to 200 MW

Clean Energy


THE TENDER FOR this project, which will be implemented in partnership with the private sector, is a key step towards achieving the objectives of the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030.

“The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park supports the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 developed by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy to diversify Dubai’s energy mix. Solar energy will account for 1% of Dubai’s total energy production by 2020 and 5% by 2030,” added Al Tayer.

“To establish the position of Dubai as a global hub for trade, finance, tourism, and sustainability, and a role model worldwide in achieving the highest standards in energy efficiency and increasing the share of renewable energy, I am pleased to announce that the production capacity of the second phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park has been increased from 100MW to 200MW. It is one of the biggest strategic new Independent Power Producer (IPP)

projects in the renewable energy market worldwide.

“The consortium led by ACWA and TSK was selected as a preferred bidder based on its proposal for 200MW with a LCOE (Levelised Cost of Energy) of approximately 5.85 (5.84869) USD cents/kWh,”noted Al Tayer.

“Bids were reviewed and we selected the best bid according to the criteria developed by the advisory committee that oversees the project. DEWA received 49 qualification documents for phase II of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. In response to its open request for qualifications, which was released in May 2014, we formed a consortium, led by KPMG, as financial consultant, Lahmeyer International, as technical

consultant, and Norton Rose Fulbright as legal consultant. DEWA shortlisted 24 developers for the second phase of the bid, which was released on 22 July 2014.

“DEWA received ten proposals from consortia formed by the world’s leading power companies. The consortium led by ACWA Power and TSK submitted the lowest recorded LCOE for a solar PV IPP project at 5.98 USD cents/kWh, which was the lowest recorded bid received for a solar photovoltaic IPP project.”

“The number of bidders, and the competitive price we received, demonstrates the trust that international investors have both in Dubai and in DEWA, and is a testament of our transparency in all our projects in addition to DEWA’s


strong financial position. DEWA has been upgraded lately by Moody’s to Baa2, and Standard & Poor’s has given a credit rating of BBB.”

“Phase 2 is one of the largest international projects of its kind and will be operational by April 2017. The project, which occupies 4.5 square kilometres, will help to achieve a reduction of 250,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. This supports the green initiatives and programmes of the Government of Dubai to reduce carbon emissions. This project will increase the size of solar energy projects in Dubai to 220 MW.

The tender for this project, which will be implemented in partnership with the private sector, is a key step towards achieving the objectives of the Dubai Integrated Energy

Strategy 2030, where solar-powered electricity is set to become part of Dubai’s energy portfolio by increasing renewables in the energy mix. DEWA will continue to execute these ground-breaking projects in renewable energy and contribute to the growing energy needs of Dubai,” said Al Tayer.

“A large number of international organisations were interested in this project. The wide participation in the

bid reflects the trust and interest of international investors to invest in in this vital field, which is supported by the Government of Dubai. To achieve our vision to become a sustainable world class utility, we are working to establish sustainability, which is a roadmap for a brighter and happier future for Dubai, by launching distinguished world-class initiatives and projects in green development,” concluded Al Tayer.

32 c r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o wClean Energy

GreenParking recently participated at the Intersec 2015 Exhibition at Dubai

from January 18th to 20th, where it showcased its expertise in operating car parks offering the highest standards in customer service, fast and efficient handling of parking areas and professional valet parking.

“As the only one-stop-shop parking company in the UAE and based on vast international experience including 17 International Airport Projects, we were able to improve our equipment design and optimise our operations procedures to meet our clients’ specific needs. Our award-winning Parking Management Concept relies on a wide range of environment-friendly access control systems. Over the years we have acquired a lot of experience in managing car

park-related security issues as well (such as integrated License Plate Recognition, Bomb-Detector Systems and Smart Parking Space Protector units) – a key-requirement for many leading developers, airports and hotels. We believe that Intersec is the right forum to meet new clients that are interested in state-of-the-art parking solutions and services which are efficient, eco-friendly and of high quality,” said Sam Alawiye, Co-Founder and CEO of GreenParking.

GreenParking is an innovative company that is leading the way in sustainable car park management. It promotes green technologies through its smart and eco-friendly approach, continuously introducing new and innovative ideas like parkchip technology instead of toxic/waste paper tickets.

GreenParking provides a system concept which is currently the market leading technology. Today, GreenParking is present in more than 100 locations in the UAE. At Intersec, it showcased its full line of services for daily car parking operations, including its environmental friendly solutions such as Parking Guiding Systems, integrated LED Lightning as well as the first EV-Charging Stations installed in the Gulf region.

“GreenParking can create a bespoke or revitalize an existing car park designed for the specific needs of each client. Our extensive reference list includes the design, installation, operations and maintenance of car parks for such reputed groups as Emaar, Meraas, Jumeirah and Emirates Airlines, to name only a few,” Alawiye added.

GreenParking showcases sustainablecar park management at Intersec Exhibition 2015



Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy delivers keynote address at the 10th Gas Arabia Summit 2015 in Dubai.


HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy

and MD & CEO of DEWA, delivered a keynote address at the 10th Gas Arabia Summit that was held from 13 to 15 January at the Sheraton Grand hotel in Dubai.

The Summit, which is held in partnership with the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and supported by the World Bank’s Global Gas Flaring Partnership, British Petroleum (BP), and TOTAL, discussed achievements of the past decade while addressing the challenges that lay ahead. The Summit was attended by a large number of national and international companies.

The 10th Gas Arabia Summit explores diversification of gas

reserves, the region’s supply demand equation, and solutions to meet rising industry demand with predictions placing global gas use level with coal as the second largest fuel in the global energy mix by 2040.

“In the last few years, the UAE has taken serious steps to address global issues in energy security and efficiency, and renewable energy sources.

“In line with the Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative, launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy has created a platform to drive specific programmes and projects where opportunities and innovation can

meet energy challenges.

We have launched a number of initiatives to reduce energy demand and build capacities and capabilities to sustain the social and economic growth of the UAE. The Supreme Council of Energy sets renewable energy at the top of its agenda to diversify energy sources and contribute to carbon reduction. By hosting the World Expo 2020, we will showcase one of the largest green mega events in the world,” said Al Tayer.

“We have recognised a number of pressing energy issues. These are climate change, global warming, and security of energy supply. We understand that a sustainability model is needed to integrate energy as an essential element in our planning and economic development. This

‘A sustainability model is needed toposition energy at the heart of our economies’

Summit


THE SUMMIT DISCUSSES achievements of the past decade while addressing the challenges that lay ahead.

means positioning energy at the heart of our economies, while addressing environmental and social concerns,” noted Al Tayer.

“The exceptional growth of energy demand during Dubai’s infrastructure boom has raised the need to seek smart strategy towards the security of supply and diversification of fuel sources. Therefore, in 2011, the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy launched the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 to achieve a number of objectives.

These are security of energy supply to sustain Dubai’s growth, diversification of fuel sources, supporting the green economy and sustainable development of the Dubai, and developing the regulatory framework required to

attract private investments in clean energy projects. To benchmark our plans and progress, we have been actively engaged with local, regional, and international organisations representing government, industry, financial and non-government organisations. These serious steps have provided us with tools to assess where we are now and what we can take on board for the next phase,” added Al Tayer.

“Although our journey in energy efficiency and sustainability began a few years ago, we are pleased with the tangible results that have been achieved so far.

We are undertaking prudent steps into a new era, to deliver strategic programmes to support Dubai’s vision to become a role model in energy

management, sustainability, economic growth, and green economy,” concluded Al Tayer.

The Summit welcomed a wide range of government and private organisations from the gas and energy sector from around the world. A number of international experts and analysts in energy security attended the event.

The conference featured lectures and workshops that discussed ideal forms of cooperation among energy organisations and the role of the private sector in supporting regional efforts to meet increasing demand for gas. The conference also discussed the development in the gas sector in the GCC countries and mechanisms for management and strategic planning in this sector.


MoU seeks to boost cooperation in energy and environment efficiency, and achieve sustainable development.

36

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has signed a

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) to boost cooperation between the two authorities in the fields of energy and environment efficiency, energy conservation, and attracting investors in the fields of renewable and alternative energies.

The signing ceremony took place at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s headquarters on 27th January, and was attended by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), and HE Dr. Eng. Rashid Al Leem, Chairman of the Sharjah Electricity and Water

Authority (SEWA), in the presence of HE Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Hussain Mohammed Al Mahmoudi, Director General of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a number of senior officials from both Shurooq and SEWA.

Speaking on the occasion, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, said: “The MoU signed today with SEWA comes within the framework of Shurooq’s eagerness to cooperate with all government and private entities involved in achieving sustainable development.

We aim to achieve three main goals through this agreement: finding solutions for renewable and

alternative energy, co-organising events that aim to attract renewable energy investors and experts, and creating an ideal environment that encourage investment in Sharjah”.

Sheikha Bodour added that Shurooq is committed to providing the necessary facilities and incentives and overcome obstacles facing investment activities in the emirate, to help achieve the authority’s vision and strategic objectives that aim to boost the investment climate and increase competitiveness in Sharjah.

Dr. Eng. Rashid Al Leem stressed the importance of cooperation between government authorities in the emirate of Sharjah to attract more investors and provide the necessary requirements in the areas of energy and others, to maintain the excellence

Shurooq signs MoU with SEWAto cooperate in energy efficiency

MoUc r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

SHUROOQ WAS ESTABLISHED in 2009 with the aim of achieving social, cultural, environmental and economic development on the basis of Sharjah’s distinct Arab and Islamic identity.

Shurooq signs MoU with SEWAto cooperate in energy efficiency


of the emirate’s economy, which isthe most diverse economy in the region.

He added: “We believe in the importance of providing sustainable and cost effective power for various business sectors, in addition to encouraging the companies willing to take advantage of the UAE’s climate in generating renewable energy.”

Al Leem added that signing the MoU between SEWA and Shurooq would contribute to increasing communication between investors and the concerned parties in renewable energies to explore ways of cooperation in energy reservation and the provision of clean energy, which will support the UAE’s Green Development Strategy themed “Green Economy for Sustainable Development”.

Under the MoU, Shurooq and SEWA will coordinate in the promotion of integration and interdependence in energy efficiency, environmental protection, energy consumption conservation and renewable and alternative energy.

Shurooq will cooperate with SEWA in holding conferences that aim to attract renewable energy investors and professionals and in organising workshops on various fields that help secure clean energy.

Both parties will cooperate in organising conferences and forums on promoting rational consumption, energy conservation, and best practices in energy, water, and environment.

Shurooq was established in 2009

with the aim of achieving social, cultural, environmental and economic development on the basis of Sharjah’s distinct Arab and Islamic identity, and to encourage investment by adopting the best international standards in providing quality services that help attract investors from the region and the world.

Shurooq’s key mission is to provide facilities and incentives to help overcome obstacles facing investment activities in the emirate, evaluate investment-related infrastructure projects, and lay down the necessary plans to complete such projects.

In recognition of its overall accomplishments, Shurooq was named The Banking Awards 2013 – and 2014 FDI Agency of the Year in the MENA region, in the European’s Global Banking and Finance Awards.


Dubai’s Emirates Golf Club becomes the first golf club in the MENA region to become GEO Certified.

38

Emirates Golf Club, the annual host of the European Tour sanctioned Omega Dubai

Desert Classic has become the first golf club in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region to become GEO Certified®.

The Golf Environment Organisation was founded in 2006 to support golf, helping the sport deliver the greatest possible ‘positive impact’ in the communities and environments it touches, now and in the future.

GEO Certified® is golf’s internationally accredited ecolabel which is awarded based on the club demonstrating a commitment to continual improvement in six main areas of sustainability; water, nature, energy, supply chain, pollution controland community.

In becoming GEO Certified®, Emirates joins some of the most famous golf courses in the world that have previously hosted Ryder Cups, Open Championships and European Tour events, including St Andrews, Turnberry, Gleneagles and Le Golf National, host venue of the 2018 Ryder Cup.

Based in Dubai, Emirates Golf Club remains an iconic golfing venue in the United Arab Emirates.

The Club was the first all grass course in the Middle East when it opened in 1988 and today boasts world-class golfing facilities on the championship Majlis and Faldo courses, combined with casual and fine-dining restaurants, swimming, fitness and tennis facilities making it a renowned all-encompassing leisure hub.

Honor

Emirates Golf Club honoredas a showcase for sustainability

Emirates Golf Club

achieved a reduction in

irrigation consumption by

34%, through investment

in a state-of-the-art

irrigation system.


EVERY GOLF CLUB and new development can be a responsible, resource efficient business in an ecologically rich landscape.

Christopher May, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Golf said, “We are delighted to become the first golf club in the Middle East to become GEO Certified®. The drive to become GEO Certified® has been a key milestone in our long term environmental strategy focussed on protecting our natural resources. We look forward to building on this achievement to make even more improvements to our sustainability approach in the future.”

Craig Haldane, Director of Golf Course Maintenance for Dubai Golf said, “Becoming a GEO Certified® club is an extremely important achievement in a region where efficient resource use, especially of the water supply, is essential. Through a team of dedicated colleagues we have remained focused on continuous efficiency improvements and this

award is a result of the hard work that we put into making our Club more sustainable every single day. It is fantastic for us to be recognised as part of a leading group profiling sustainable golf for clubs all around the world.”

Highlights from the OnCourse report of Emirates Golf Club have included the following:

• Reduction in irrigation consumption by 34%, through investment in a state-of-the-art irrigation system

• Changing the water supply to treated sewage effluent water – 100% recycled water that would otherwise maintain a high environmental cost to dispose

• Installation of a new state-of-the-art pump station that allows up to 6,500 gallons of treated sewage

effluent (TSE) water per minute to travel through the network, significantly reducing watering time

• Transition of the turf grass to a variety far better adapted to lower quality water

• Significant reduction of maintained turf areas is taking place on the Faldo course, switching the original sward into autochthonous species such as the desert fox grass

• Initiation of a turfgrass reduction programme and introduction of native grass species to minimise areas requiring high maintenance, including fertility, mowing and irrigation providing numerous environmental benefits

• Creation of protected areas to preserve and encourage bird life



• Recycled water used for cleaning of workshop facilities and golf course maintenance equipment

• Highlighted the outstanding community role that Emirates Golf Club plays by promoting Dubai worldwide

• Commitment to environmental sustainability by enhancing the conservation and protection of desert habitats, with their wildlife and vegetation

• Land heritage is achieved thanks to the original design that understood the value of the site and that integrated the courses into the desert particularities, with its characteristics sand dunes and rolling shape

• Emirates Golf Club conserves nature through a variety of different practices, one of the most significant

is bird control, which is achieved by the old tradition of falconry

Jonathan Smith, GEO Chief Executive said, “Emirates Golf Club has shown superb initiative in efficient resource use and naturalisation of out-of-play areas, among many other key environmental activities. We are thrilled to see the club become GEO Certified® and look forward to the evolution and expansion of their new sustainability ideas”.

Emirates Golf Club has been an official European Tour venue since 1989. Mike Stewart, European Tour Tournament Director said; “The European Tour are founding supporters of GEO and have a long-standing commitment to sustainability. The European Tour’s Green Drive long-term goal is to encourage all

venues hosting European Tour events to become GEO Certified®, and that all tournaments and facilities are run in a sustainable way.

“Emirates Golf Club’s longstanding commitment to sustainability has been evident for some time, so we are delighted that they have been recognised with this certification and that they are active in The European Tour Green Drive.”

The certification follows the presentation of the Efficient Use of Resources Award at the prestigious International Association of Golf Tour Operator (IAGTO) Awards held in Lake Como, Italy. The award was presented for a highly focused and sustained approach to irrigation water technology in a region where pressure on the vital resource is enormous.

40Honorc r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

RMD Boards, a division of JRD International based in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai,

has launched ‘Say Yes to No Wood’ movement under which the company will plant a tree for every 100 ‘Likes’ on its Facebook page.

RMD Boards, which manufactures multi-use wall panels that are designed to replace conventional wooden and plywood panels, is running the campaign until February 14, 2015, and aims to plant hundreds of trees, as part of its commitment to environmental conservation.

“The ‘Say Yes to No Wood’ movement is our contribution to global efforts to reduce deforestation,” said Anupam Lunavat, Managing Director of JRD International, the parent company

of RMD. “It is estimated that 29.8 million trees are cut down daily in the world and 1.5 acres of rainforest are lost every second. RMD Boards seeks to address this alarming situation through this campaign and we would like everyone to support it through a simple ‘Like’ on Facebook.”

Sagar Verma, President, RMD Boards, said: “Our core message is that the interior decoration sector needs to adopt more eco-friendly materials, such as our wall panels which are lightweight and can be pasted directly on cement block walls or plastered walls without any other base material, thus saving transportation, labor and installation costs.”

RMD Boards is a state-of-the-art manufacturing unit cum corporate

headquarters spread over 10 acres in Jebel Ali Free Zone and employs around 700 people. The diversified products from RMD Boards are water-proof, termite resistant, certified fire retardant, highly durable, light-weight and 100 per cent recyclable.

The use of PP in these engineered products replaces the use of wood, thus reducing carbon footprint. The product range includes Wall Panels, Wall Coverings, Shuttering Panels, Site fencing, Antiskid flooring and False Ceilings for the construction and interior decoration sectors.

The company’s focus on using non-wood materials has a global appeal and will contribute significantly to combat deforestation in the interest of a greener environment.

Dubai group to promote green building products

Dubai-based RMD Boards launches ‘Say Yes to No Wood’ movement.



Vice Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy in Dubai signs MoU with UNIDO to develop sustainable energy projects and programmes in Dubai.


The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy has signed a three-year renewable Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) to promote collaboration in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and to develop sustainable energy projects and programmes to be a platform for knowledge exchange about sustainability. The MoU underlines DEWA’s efforts to enhance cooperation with international organisations and supports its strategy to support and develop sustainable energy projects in Dubai.

The MoU was signed by HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy in Dubai, and MD & CEO of DEWA, and Li Yong, Director General of UNIDO.

Representatives and officials from both sides were also present. According to the MoU, the two sides will promote exchange of knowledge, expertise, and professional consultation.

They will develop and facilitate technology sharing with a number of energy programmes and projects in the UAE and the region. The two sides will also develop an effective model for energy-service contracts in the region, and collaborate to increase the efficiency of one of Dubai’s District Cooling projects.

The signing ceremony was attended by HE Ahmed Butti Al Muhairbi, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Energy, Waleed Salman, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, Dr. Yousef Al Akraf, Executive Vice

President of Business Support and Human Resources, Abdul Nasser Abbas, Senior Director of Treasury, and Ahmed Abdullah, Senior Manager of External Communications at DEWA. It was also attended by Ivano Iannelli, CEO of the Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence.

“In line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to produce renewable energy locally and sustain our precious resources and support growth of this promising sector, and in alignment with the Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which sets the roadmap for our development

UAE signs MoU with UNIDO to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency in GCC

MoU


THE MoU UNDERLINES DEWA’s efforts to enhance cooperation with international organisations and supports its strategy to support and develop sustainable energy projects in Dubai.

initiatives and projects, we are working to implement the Dubai Plan 2021, to enhance sustainability and create a happy society that meets the expectations of citizens and residents,” said Al Tayer.

“The Supreme Council of Energy shares the same goals with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation to enhance industrial development to achieve environmental sustainability.

It has become increasingly clear that we need a new development approach, which looks at societies, economies, industries, and the environment as a whole to accelerate industrialisation as a key source of economic growth, and protect the environment by supporting clean and sustainable industrial development,” added Al Tayer.

“I am very confident that this collaboration will not only promote sustainable energy policies in the UAE and the region, but it will also strengthen the global network and industrial development,” noted Al Tayer.

“Following our agreement, we will exchange information, expertise, and technical advice. We will work to develop and transfer modern technologies for a number of energy programmes and projects in Dubai.

The Supreme Council of Energy is committed to implementing cost-effective policies, strategies, and technologies in the areas of renewable energy and energy efficiency in Dubai. This will increase the share of renewable energy and energy efficiency products and services in the Arab region and the global market.

“On 15 January, we selected the best bidder for the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park with the lowest cost internationally, which is 5.85 USD cents/kWh, and increased the capacity of Phase two of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park to 200MW. Last month we also increased the percentage of renewables in Dubai’s energy mix target to 7% by 2020 and 15% by 2030,” concluded Al Tayer.


The ban on usage and sale of inefficient lighting in the UAE is expected to slash off nearly $120 million on energy bills and carbon emission reduction equivalent to taking 165,000 cars off the road per year.


Emirates Authority for Standardization and Meteorology has announced

that the usage and sale of inefficient lighting shall be banned as of January 2015 to fulfill the United Arab Emirates 2020 vision of sustainability.

In the light of this ban, Philips, the global leader in lighting makes the transition for UAE residents an easy one due to its wide portfolio of sustainable alternatives. With the onset of the ban, homeowners will be able to brighten their homes using only energy-efficient lighting solutions.

“Lighting has a positive impact on people’s overall mood and wellbeing, while also enabling them to fully experience the world around them and encouraging productivity. Philips believes that adopting more energy-

efficient lighting solutions such as LED technology will not only help improve the environment, it will also allow people to create surroundings that positively enhance their lives,” said Asli Okar, Marketing Manager, Philips Lighting Middle East.

Philips offers a full range of lighting options that are energy efficient and will help residents make the switch more easily. These options are retrofit solutions for current lighting fixtures, including candles for chandeliers which are popular in the UAE. With over 120 years of insight and innovation, Philips is educating customers about the many benefits of transitioning to a sustainable, more eco-friendly tomorrow.

LED Philips offers a high quality, reliable

LED range which is the latest and most efficient lighting innovation. The Philips clear LED light bulb has been designed to replicate the traditional 40W (A60 shape) light bulb, allowing residents to hold on to the light they love as well as reap the lifelong benefits of LED technology.

Philips has also introduced a 60W replacement in warm white, to replace the most common light bulb used in majority of UAE homes. The 7.5W LED bulb provides up to 87.5% energy savings and offer premium ambient light for the home environment, enabling one to enhance the décor and ambience of homes through high quality lighting.

Philips LED light bulbs last up to 15 years (25,000 hours) during normal use, saving approximately AED1,500

UAE residents urged to “Make the Switch” to energy efficient lighting in 2015

Energy Efficiency


ENERGY CONSUMPTION is a very crucial topic across the globe and people need to be made more aware of their individual choices and the impact it has on the country’s sustainability efforts.

in comparison to incandescent bulbs which typically last for approximately 18 months depending on the model. With an LED there is no need to constantly replace light bulbs.

Halogen Philips Halogen offers a bright sparkle or a pleasant soft light depending on the mood that homeowners want to achieve. The Halogen light bulb comes in several shapes and sizes enabling residents to get the right fit for fixtures. The Halogen bulb is available in a 28W variant which saves up to 37% energy, and lasts up to two years of normal usage, enabling savings of approximately AED800 a year.

Compact FluorescentCompact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFL) are known for their high performance nature. The 11W bulb has an expected

lifetime of eight years of normal use with energy saving of up to 82%, allowing residents to save approximately AED1,300 a year. Philips CFL light bulbs offer residents the choice of colour temperature that will create the perfect preferred ambience. The benefits of

making the switch include superior light quality, longer lasting light, reduced maintenance costs, increased energy efficiency, environmentally friendly and easy to use due to digital devices and enabling of customizable and controlled lighting environment.


Sustainability platform that concluded in the UAE capital last month showcases innovative solutions in waste management.


The second edition of ECOWaste, a key platform dedicated to showcasing next

generation waste management and recycling solutions, marked a successful completion at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) attracting 50 local and international companies along with 2,000 buyers and specialists from the waste management and recycling sectors.

The four-day event was organized as part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) from January 19 to 22.

His Excellency Eisa Saif Al Qubaisi, General Manager, Tadweer (Center of Waste Management), said: “ECOWaste 2015 has made huge success, thanks to the diversity of associated events and the record turnout of visitors as well as

exhibitors and industry experts whose number exceeded 2,000 this year. With the success of this edition, ECOWaste has now reinforced its position as an ideal platform to explore the latest technologies and exchange ideas and best practices in integrated waste management towards achieving the objectives of Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.”

The eco-friendly event included a meeting of GCC Municipalities that was attended by key representatives of various GCC municipalities. Discussions focused on critical issues related to the environment and sustainable development including integrated waste management, integrated pest control management, as well as production and joint marketing of recycled products throughout the GCC.

ECOWaste 2015 addresses critical topics on recycling and effective waste collection

WFES 2015

With figures suggesting

that close to 40% of the

daily domestic waste

produced by Abu Dhabi

and Dubai residents

consists of discarded

food, managing organic

waste is a growing

problem in the UAE.


THE SECOND EDITION of ECOWaste 2015 seeks to find holistic solutions for challenges in water conservation, renewable energy and waste management.

With figures suggesting that close to 40% of the daily domestic waste produced by Abu Dhabi and Dubai residents consists of discarded food, managing organic waste is a growing problem in the UAE. As part of its priority to address critical topics on recycling and effective waste collection, EcoWaste 2015 highlighted Hongkong based GreenGood Oklin’s revolutionary food waste decomposition systems that convert organic waste into high-grade compost within 24 hours.

These systems can therefore process between two to 500 tonnes of food waste per year. Also on display were powerful hydraulic waste-handling machines suitable for both scrap and timber disposal.

The event also hosted a ceremony to

honor the winners of the 2nd Tadweer Environment Awareness Award for Schools and Universities. The award distributed prizes worth AED76,000 in 12 categories and attracted students from elementary, intermediate and secondary schools as well as public and private universities.

During ECOWaste 2015, Tadweer set up an awareness pavilion that received a large number of students from various schools and universities. The pavilion educated participants and members of society about the key objectives and activities of Tadweer.

In addition, Tadweer’s environment guides conducted workshops for children to highlight the importance of public hygiene, environmental safety and the efficient use of black and green waste bins for waste

segregation. Experts were on hand to outline optimal waste and natural resource utilization methods to promote waste reduction at source.

ECOWaste 2015 also included the Buyers Program that hosted leading investors in the waste management sector from across the GCC and facilitated over 150 meetingsand agreements for potential business transactions.

The Center of Waste Management (Tadweer) is tasked with the collection, maintenance, transportation, and processing of waste management services in a safe, efficient and economically-viable manner in Abu Dhabi. To achieve its goals, Tadweer implements integrated systems and sustainable models that comply with the best international standards.


The Women in Sustainability, Environment and Renewable Energy (WISER) forum underscored women’s quickly growing contributions to climate change.


Women working in the field of sustainability received high-profile recognition on 21st

January in a major forum convened by Masdar in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Zayed Future Energy Prize.

Featuring female executives and leaders from around the globe, the Women in Sustainability, Environment and Renewable Energy (WISER) forum underscored women’s quickly growing contributions to climate change solutions and green growth, as well as the tremendous opportunities now available to female graduates and young professionals.

The event was held as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and the World Future Energy Summit. The forum assembled women in the fields

of engineering, media, politics and science to drive solutions that address the challenges of energy, water security and climate risk.

WISER was opened with a keynote address from Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE minister of state, director general, Bureau Dubai Expo 2020 and board representative of the Dubai Expo 2020 Higher Committee, who said: “The support of women leaders, who advocate sustainability, is a priority to the UAE and Expo 2020 Dubai. The WISER forum is a platform where and how women’s empowerment can work to address viable sustainability initiatives.”

The event took both personal and global perspectives on women’s status and contributions in sustainability, mixing gender statistics with individual

narratives from the speakers and discussion of general industry issues.

Topics ranged from the upcoming Paris climate change negotiations to work-life balance, including a special highlight by the Zayed Future Energy Prize on empowering women in developing countries.

“Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week attracts some of the world’s leading global players in sustainability to address the world’s most pressing environmental challenges,” said His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of State and director general of Zayed Future Energy Prize and chairman of Masdar.

“In his lifetime, our founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan stressed the importance of

Forum

Women in sustainability uniteat Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week


WOMEN WORKING IN the field of sustainability received high-profile in a major forum convened by Masdar in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Zayed Future Energy Prize.

women’s education and participation, encouraging them to work in all sectors.

“WISER builds on this legacy and shows how much women are needed as we face the challenges of climate change and sustainable development,” he added.

“The world has reached a critical turning point where many women are playing leading roles to build the resilience of their families, communities and the planet amid the challenges of water scarcity, energy security and climate change,” said Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany, director of sustainability at Masdar.

“The WISER forum offers an empowering environment to encourage both female leaders and

women at the beginning of their careers in business, media and politics to pursue their own visions,” she added.

WISER leveraged the global attention focused on Abu Dhabi during Sustainability Week, with more than 32,000 participants from 170

countries that included leaders from academia, industry and government. Topics highlighted during the event explored the relationship between shale gas and renewables, advances in solar-powered water desalination, and shared approaches to accelerating sustainable energy.

Women in sustainability uniteat Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week


The new wind atlas adds yet another layer of data to the Masdar Institute-hosted IRENA Global Atlas for Renewable Energy, which includes maps on solar, wind, geothermal and bioenergy resources along with one marine energy map.


The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven

graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, announced at the World Future Energy Summit 2015 the launch of the UAE Wind Atlas, aimed at accurately characterizing the UAE’s wind resources and ultimately supporting investments in wind energy projects.

The UAE has become the first country in the region to develop its own publicly available wind atlas, which has been integrated into the Global Atlas for Renewable Energy platform of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) as a contribution from the UAE Government.

“This is one more excellent

achievement from the Research Center for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment at Masdar Institute. The UAE Wind Atlas demonstrates another key aspect of our contribution to advancing clean energy projects in the UAE. With the support of the UAE’s leadership, Masdar Institute remains in the forefront of research and innovation for clean energy adoption, creating new tools and techniques for the benefit of the wider community.

We foresee that the launch and inclusion of the UAE Wind Atlas in IRENA’s Global Wind Atlas highlights our role in the creation of technical knowledge for sustainability,” said Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute.

Adnan Z. Amin, Director-General,

IRENA, said: “The launch of the UAE Wind Atlas marks another key milestone in our efforts to bring a comprehensive clean energy resource map to the global community.

The support provided by Masdar Institute’s Research Centre for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment and 3TIER has been critical to help developers of clean energy projects find valuable information to assist in their investment decisions.”

An interactive portal with a wide range of end-user applications will be hosted on a dedicated server at ReCREMA, located within Masdar Institute, under its Director Dr. Hosni Ghedira. Dr. Taha B.M.J. Ouarda, Head of the Institute Center for

WFES 2015

Region’s first public wind atlasto support wind energy projects


THE UAE WIND Atlas application and interactive portal are hosted in the state-of-the-art Data Center facilities at Masdar Institute.

Water and Environment (iWater), was closely involved in the creation of the wind atlas.

Dr. Ghedira said: “The wind atlas is fairly different from the solar atlas in a number of ways, although some of the maps may seem similar: Wind has to be generated at a number of heights and a whole altitude profile needs to be produced as different turbine technologies work at different heights. Also, solar irradiance is a fairly regional variable because irradiance at a given location is not very different from irradiance at a location 100 meters away.”

The scientific work to produce the wind atlas included climate simulations and was carried out in collaboration with 3TIER, a global leader in renewable energy risk

analysis, data, assessment, and forecasting for wind, solar, and hydro power projects. 3TIER is based in Seattle, Washington, in the US.

At the request of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ReCREMA developed the UAE solar and wind atlases to make them available to the general public through IRENA’s global atlas platform.

An agreement with the Directorate of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE), and Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), through the Abu Dhabi Global Environmental Data Initiative (AGEDI), resulted in funding contributions to the UAE National Atlas for solar and wind resources.

Wind is a highly ‘local variable’ as it can be very different at locations that are just 40 meters away because of the impact of terrain, roughness, channeling effect, etc. The work on the wind atlas also included other information such as uncertainty maps which can be very important for securing funding for wind farms.

The final maps for the wind atlas are at a spatial resolution of 500m. During climate simulation (the intensive scientific part of the modeling effort), a number of models were compared to identify the ones that provide best results in desert and arid environments. This is expected to ensure that the final maps take into consideration the unique climatic characteristics of the region. The data sets generated are in excess of 15TB for a 10-year period.


The research collaboration will focus on selecting the most practical and economical photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal energy technologies to supply a full-scale SWRO with locally produced renewable energy.

52 c r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level

university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, has announced its research collaboration with three leading advanced energy and clean technology corporations to execute a research project supporting the development of a completely solar-powered, full-scale seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant in the UAE.

The UAE relies on desalination plants for most of its potable water. These plants are powered by natural gas, which contributes almost a third of the UAE’s greenhouse gas emissions. Turning to a more sustainable method of clean water production can save costs in the long run and reduce carbon emissions.

Collaborators include Masdar – Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, which works to develop and invest in renewable and clean energy in Abu Dhabi; Laborelec – a subsidiary of GDF Suez, an international research center and technical service provider that specializes in electrical power technology and sustainable energy; and Degrémont – a subsidiary of Suez Environment, a water treatmentand services provider dedicated to finding sustainable water management solutions.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul, CEO, Masdar Corporate, Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute, Mr. Pierre Pauliac, Director Middle East, Degrémont, and Mr. Michael Marique, Managing Director, Laborelec, signed the agreement in the presence of Ségolène Royal, French Minister of

Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy, during the 8th annual World Future Energy Summit (WFES), which was held from 19-22 January, 2015 in Abu Dhabi.

Dr. Moavenzadeh said: “Through this agreement between Masdar, Masdar Institute, Laborelec and Degrémont, we hope to leverage our renewable energy experience and expertise to produce a cutting-edge SWRO plant powered exclusively by renewable energy. This research will help bring the UAE closer to its goal of producing a greater proportion of its electricity from renewable energy and will contribute significantly to the UAE’s research and development expertise.”

All four collaborators have been deeply involved in renewable energy

Research

UAE in research collaboration for renewableenergy-powered water desalination plant

c r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

MASDAR, MASDAR INSTITUTE, Laborelec, and Degrémont are among the chief collaborators in the newly signed research agreement.

and/or SWRO research. Now, through their concerted efforts, they will be harnessing the synergy needed to find the most efficient and economical solutions for a solar energy-powered SWRO plant forthe UAE.

The research collaboration will focus on selecting the most practical and economical photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal energy technologies to supply a full-scale SWRO with locally produced renewable energy. The parties will jointly work to develop an optimized design of a solar energy powered SWRO desalination plant. They will then attempt to demonstrate, according to the particular conditions of a selected UAE site, the ability to produce the required quality and quantity of fresh water on a large scale.

Masdar’s Renewable Energy Desalination Program was initiated to discover advanced and innovative desalination technologies that can be powered by renewable energy. Masdar has operated several solar irradiance measurement stations across the UAE from 2009 through June 2013 and continues to operate one high-precision station in Al Aradh, close to Al Ain. Masdar and Masdar Institute has expertise in solar resource assessment – a method of determining precise measurement of the sun’s radiation in order to optimize PV systems – and cost modeling of renewable power plants.

At Masdar Institute, Dr. Hassan Arafat, leader of the Membrane and Sustainable Desalination Research Group (MSDR) and Associate Professor, Department of Chemical

and Environmental Engineering, will act as the project’s principal investigator. Dr. Arafat has developed tools in the field of technical and environmental assessment and cost modeling of renewable energy-powered desalination technologies.

Additionally, Masdar Institute has been developing innovative concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies – used to capture, store, and transport solar thermal energy – and has contributed to the development of solar radiation concentrating systems in order to optimize PV systems.

Laborelec’s Renewable Energy Research Program covers selected topics in solar energy, wind turbine efficiency, ocean power and biofuels.Degrémont has already created 250 SWRO desalination plants.


Bee’ah continues its sustainability mission at the alternative shopping concept where everything is sold from inside shipping containers.

54

Bee’ah, the Middle East’s leading award-winning fully integrated environment and

waste management company, paved the way to a Greener Dubai at the 2nd edition of Market Outside the Box (OTB), which was held in Downtown Dubai from the 15th to the 24th of January last month.

The Market OTB is the region’s first sustainable fashion and lifestyle marketplace in which retailers, marketers, and merchandisers can display and sell upmarket sustainably manufactured goods out of stylishly revamped and modernised shipping containers in a charming al fresco setting.

As an environmental partner, Bee’ah supplied a number of forward-thinking and innovative activities.

Their state-of-the-art “Reverse Vending Machines” were placed in easily accessible locations on the premises. By using these modern-looking appealing appliances, visitors are able to recycle their plastic bottles and cans on the spot, turning the light yet important task into an even more satisfying experience.

A two-day registration period for the “myBee’ah Loyalty Programme” was facilitated on the 15th and the 16th of January wherein prizes and giveaways for all registrations were up for grabs.

The myBee’ah Loyalty Programme rewards community members for their positive environmental involvement. It extends the environmental principle of the three R’s even further to become “Reduce,

Reuse, Recycle, and Redeem”.

A Blue Card is given at an introductory level in which members are offered minimal discounts at participating stores. The Platinum Card is awarded to second tier members, where they can redeem more discounts and offers from a larger number of participating retailers. To receive this card, members must have contributed to certain amount of environmental activities and have accumulated certain amount of points. These members are active environmentalists and thus have adopted the habits of a sustainable lifestyle.

On the 20th and 21st of January, an entertaining educational workshop on the importance of nature

2nd edition of Dubai’s ‘Market Outsidethe Box’ offers eco-friendly shopping experience

Sustainabilityc r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

RETAIL STORES AND food kiosks were featured inside refurbished shipping containers, using a popular green concept already present in cities like New York and London.

conservation, earth preservation, recycling, and “going green” was held for young visitors, organised by Bee’ah’s BSOE team.

Bee’ah also provided comfortable public seating in the form of recycled rubber tiles for around the cinema screen, which featured nightly screenings of Björk’s ‘Biophilia Live’ from January 16th till 19th, and Werner Herzog’s ‘The Wild Blue Yonder’ from January 21st until 24th.

Meera Taryam, Director of Environment Services & Education at Bee’ah, was upbeat about the positive participation from visitors and exhibitors alike regarding the green company’s involvement at the market.

“This year’s Market OTB event bears a vital theme, that of Sustainability,”

she said. “Bee’ah’s mission statement is to provide sustainable solutions in environmental and resource management, thus we are delighted to contribute as an environmental partner at this first-class earth-conscious fete. We are happy with the positive impact our innovative and fun Reverse Vending Machines have had on the overall conservation-awareness of young market-goers.”

She continued: “Last year’s Market OTB proved to be a great success, and we are honoured to play such a big role in the 2nd edition of this event. As the Market is part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, we get to share our Green philosophy with a much wider audience and we are delighted to reach further and go from strength to strength in this campaign for a sustainable future.”

The market’s 2nd edition was held on the grassy lawns of South Ridge Park near the Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai, where shoppers could peruse a wide selection of planet-friendly products as well as find entertainment in the form of music, free yoga classes, films, and delicious eats from more than 50 vendors.



Both projects will measurably reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which are projected to decline by 8,531 metric tonnes each year, equivalent to removing 1,796 cars from the road each year.


Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) and Etihad Energy Service Company

(Etihad ESCO), have announced the signing of two comprehensive Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPC) at a combined value of AED 37 million to improve and enhance overall energy efficiency of the lighting infrastructure of the power plants at Jebel Ali, Al Awir, and 7 DEWA-owned buildings including its headquarter.

As part of the guaranteed savings project, Etihad ESCO conducted a technical energy audit on DEWA facilities which identified significant energy efficiency improvement measures as well as related capital improvement measures that will support sustainability and overall energy efficiency. This project will serve as a showcase for the energy

performance contracting market at the level of Dubai and the region.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and MD and CEO of DEWA expressed his satisfaction with the award of the projects and stated that this initiative is in line with the Green Economy for Sustainable Development national initiative and the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make the UAE a world leader in green economy. It also support the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy to reduce energy consumption by 30% and carbon emissions by over 5 million tonnes by 2030.

“DEWA is proud to lead by example

by implementing energy efficiency through the innovative energy performance contracting model which is new for the region. The partnership with Etihad ESCO will further drive public-private partnerships that support the vision of making Dubai a leading example of energy efficiency for the region and the world,” said Al Tayer at the signing ceremony on 14th January, 2015.

One of the projects consists of a comprehensive lighting upgrade with high-efficiency LED technology within DEWA’s power stations in Jebel Ali and Al-Awir. The contract guarantees a 68 per cent electricity savings for 6 years with a payback of 3.5 years.

The second project focuses on energy efficiency and water conservation in 7 DEWA-owned buildings, including the

Etihad ESCO and DEWA sign AED 37million energy savings performance contracts

Project


THE PARTNERSHIP WITH Etihad ESCO will further drive public-private partnerships that support the vision of making Dubai a leading example of energy efficiency for the region and the world.

improvements of the building control systems, chiller plant facilities, air conditioning equipment, and water systems. It will improve comfort and productivity for customers and staff with the contract guaranteeing an overall savings in electricity and water use of 31 percent for six years with an overall payback of six years.

Both projects will measurably reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which are projected to decline by 8,531 metric tonnes each year, equivalent to removing 1,796 cars from the road each year.

In line with Etihad ESCO’s vision of enabling a performance contracting market in Dubai, Etihad ESCO is partnering with Philips Lighting on the lighting project and MAF Dalkia Middle East on the building project.

Construction on both projects is scheduled to be completed in December 2015. Comprehensive long-term maintenance, repair and replacement of the installed components are also funded through guaranteed energy savings to ensure the installed improvements remain in good working order over the respective contract duration.

“This comprehensive project helps DEWA to enhance its operational efficiency and lower the carbon footprint of its facilities which adds to its already outstanding record of achievements in energy conservation and sustainability.

“Etihad ESCO is proud of its partnership with DEWA as it will showcase how energy performance contracting can enable energy efficiency, a far more

effective way of conserving energy resources than traditional energy conservation efforts that may be limited in savings,” said Stephane le Gentil, CEO of Etihad ESCO.


Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), has received students and

academics from the Emirates Leadership Initiative, which is one of the most prominent educational programmes to train and prepare young leaders and government officials in the UAE. It was launched by the UAE Embassy in the USA in collaboration with John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA; Waleed Salman, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Business Development; Dr. Yousef Ibrahim Al Akraf, Vice President of Business Support and Human Resources; Khawla Al Mehairi, Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications; and

DEWA officials received members of the initiative at DEWA’s headquarters in Zabeel East.

“Organising this visit is part of DEWA’s commitment to supporting UAE citizens, improving their skills, and preparing them to become future leaders,” said Al Tayer in his welcome speech.

In 2013, DEWA launched a scholarship programme for students to get a Bachelor’s degree in renewable energy from universities abroad, he added.

Salman discussed DEWA’s key developments and strategic initiatives. He highlighted DEWA’s three smart initiatives: connecting solar energy to houses and buildings, smart applications through smart

meters and grids, and electric vehicle charging stations. He said that DEWA’s initiatives will be a new benchmark for sustainability and smart infrastructure, placing Dubai at the forefront of global smart cities.

After the meeting, DEWA organised a tour for members of the Emirates Leadership Initiative to its Sustainable Building in Al Quoz, which is the first sustainable government building in the UAE and the largest government building in the world to receive a Platinum Rating for green buildings from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).

The building uses 66% less energy and reduces water consumption by as much as 48%. It uses renewable energy from an on-site 660 kW solar power plant.

DEWA hosts Emirates Leadership Initiativestudents with tour of Sustainable Building


Canon Emirates, a leader in imaging solutions, has been re-certified to the ISO 14001

environmental management standard following an external environment audit reporting no ‘non-conformities’. The recertification highlights Canon’s ongoing commitment to meet all applicable environmental regulations while continuously improving its environmental performance in the local community.

The internationally recognised ISO 14001 standard, to which more than 800 Canon sites worldwide are certified, is a strong reflection of the successful integration of environmentally responsible practices across all aspects of the business. The Canon Group is one of very few organisations that has achieved consolidated ISO 14001 certification

covering all operations globally.

Shadi Bakhour, General Manager, Canon Emirates said: “At Canon, we aim to reduce the environmental impact of our products throughout their lifecycle from design concept to end of life. In 2014, our goal was to improve lifecycle CO2 emissions per product by 3%. Additionally, we looked at reducing waste per unit by 1% for the year, both compared to 2013. These efforts are in line with Canon’s clear targets to manage the environmental impact of its products and operations across the region.

“Canon supports and implements sustainability initiatives as part of the organisation’s Kyosei philosophy, which is a Japanese word meaning living and working together for the common good. Our dedication

to responsible business is deeply embedded within our culture and is valued by our customers, partners and stakeholders alike.”

Canon Middle East & Canon Emirates continues to invest heavily in sustainable best practices with environmental initiatives at the core of Canon’s CSR commitment. The ISO 14001 environmental management system provides a framework for employees in Canon Middle East & Canon Emirates to identify and control the environmental impact of operations in line with regional regulations.

Canon was recently recognised for its environmental and CSR efforts by the Dubai Chamber. Additionally, Canon was awarded ‘Best Environmental Practices in the Arab World’ in 2014 by the Arab Organisation for Social Responsibility.

Canon Emirates receives renewal of ISO 14001Environmental Management Standard certification



InSinkErator, an internationally renowned food waste disposer provides a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to transporting leftovers to landfills.

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InSinkErator, a business unit of Emerson, the inventor and the world’s largest manufacturer of

food waste disposers and instant hot water dispensers for home and commercial use, launched a high-level conversation on food waste to clamp down on the GCC’s growing landfills. The roundtable saw professionals in architecture, hospitality and waste management call for greater awareness among the public and all stakeholders, and raised the need for federal regulations in the Emirates.

The attendees discussed a number of issues around waste management, shared valuable market insight and suggested sustainable solutions that can tackle the impact of food wastage from an environmental and economical perspective across the UAE and the rest of the GCC.

The United Nation Environment Programme estimates that one third of the food produced worldwide, valued at US$1 trillion, is discarded by consumers. Closer to home, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region relies on imports for over 50% of its food and wastes nearly 16 million tonnes of wheat every year, an amount that could feed up to 100 million people.

With figures suggesting that close to 40% of the daily domestic waste produced by Abu Dhabi and Dubai residents consists of discarded food, managing organic waste is a growing problem in the UAE.

During the session Mohamed Karam, Sr. Business Development Manager, Middle East and Africa for InSinkErator said, “At the same time

Call for greater awareness toroot out waste with better management

Roundtablec r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

The Middle East and

North Africa (MENA)

region relies on imports

for over 50% of its food

and wastes nearly 16

million tonnes of wheat

every year, an amount

that could feed up to 100

million people.

FOOD WASTE TRUCKED to landfills quickly decomposes and produces methane, an environmentally harmful greenhouse gas at least 21 times more potent than CO2.

that GCC countries are investing in farmland overseas, they stand out among the world’s top generators of food waste. In Dubai alone, nearly 38 per cent of food is wasted every day, which goes up to 55 per cent during Ramadan.

He added, “There are sustainable solutions that can reduce the amount of food waste that goes to landfills and contributes to global warming. We can all make a real contribution to tackling climate change and living more sustainably by wasting less. The InSinkErator Food Waste Disposer is an environmentally responsible alternative to sending food waste to landfills, and can reduce domestic kitchen waste around 30 percent. However changes in behavior of consumers should go hand in hand with public sector intervention.”

Joe Ferrara, Vice President International at InSinkerator, contributed to the roundtable with best practices and proactive solutions that had a positive impact on food waste management in the United States. Ferrara also highlighted the need to change perceptions, raise the level of environmental awareness, and implement cost effective solutions across the globe.

“When the world’s first food waste disposer was manufactured by InSinkErator decades ago, food waste management was not making headlines; the main reason for installing one in your kitchen was hygiene. But things have changed. Everything matures, and there is a stronger need for action now more than ever before. At Emerson, we don’t just develop sustainable product

solutions; we constantly innovate, educate, and encourage public engagement. Collaboration among stakeholders is also key in realizing a sustainable future for humanity.”

The roundtable concluded with a recommendation for a four-fold approach to the problem: information, communication, education and prevention. These four key drivers have enormous potential to serve as an effective solution to the growing problem of waste disposal.



Xylem President and CEO Patrick Decker shares global insights on sustainability at International Water Summit, Abu Dhabi.

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Patrick Decker, the president and chief executive officer of Xylem Inc., a leading

global water technology company dedicated to solving the world’s most challenging water issues, addressed the International Water Summit (IWS) taking place in Abu Dhabi from January 19-22.

In his second visit to the Middle East since his appointment as President and CEO of Xylem last year, Mr. Decker shared global insights on sustainability and how technology can be used to solve critical water challenges in arid regions.

Mr. Decker participated in a panel discussion entitled “Taking a Unified Strategic Approach to Address the Challenges of the Water Energy Nexus” at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday,

20 January at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The discussion explored solutions for the distribution of water and energy resources, the interlinked challenges of urban water and energy to enable to the growth of cities, and solutions to improve utility performance.

“The Middle East is a vibrant, diverse region with a growing need for innovative water technology solutions. Xylem has a long history of partnering with customers to create smart solutions that help address many of the challenges facing arid and rapidly growing regions,” said Decker.

“The International Water Summit serves as an important platform to raise awareness of these growing challenges and to encourage dialogue focused on integrated solutions.

For Xylem, it is also an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to developing pioneering solutions to one of the world’s most urgent issues - the need for clean, safe water and sanitation.”

Vincent Chirouze, newly appointed Managing Director, Xylem Middle East and North Africa, said, “IWS is an opportunity for Xylem to meet with existing and prospective customers to demonstrate the role our technology can play in addressing water challenges. Xylem’s vision complements the United Arab Emirates Vision 2021 National Agenda by providing water technology solutions that enable the sustainable development of the United Arab Emirates.”

In addition to Mr. Decker’s panel

‘Technology innovations critical to help overcome region’s water and energy challenges’

WFES 2015c r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

IWS AIMS TO tackle the growing need for water-energy solutions, examining the relationship between the two and how they impact the region.

discussions, Glen Trickle, Vice President and Director, Engineering & Technology for Xylem’s treatment business, participated in two panel discussions: “Understanding the Economics of Connectivity and Location to Enable Optimised Water Usage” and “Water Stewardship to Improve Local Water Sources and Enable Commercial Sustainability Through a Value Driven Strategic Approach”, held on Wednesday,21 January.

Xylem also presented a number of technical workshops during the exhibition, which focused on reliable and energy efficient wastewater pumping, addressing the harmful algal bloom threat to desalination plants, addressing water micropolution, and the optimization of wastewater treatment processes. Xylem is a

leading global water technology provider, enabling customers to transport, treat, test and efficiently use water in public utility, residential and commercial building services, industrial and agricultural settings.

Sustainable use of resources and application of technological innovations to solve critical water challenges particularly in arid regions were the key insights tackled at the four-day International Water Summit

(IWS) in Abu Dhabi, which ended on January 22.

The exhibition and conference took place during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company. IWS is also supported by Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority, the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi, the Regulation and Supervision Bureau and Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company.



ASTAD Project Management hosted a high-ranking delegation from the US

Green-Build Council (USGBC) during their recent visit to Qatar from 19 to 22 January 2015. The meeting was a successful attempt to develop stronger regional strategic cooperation between USGBC, ASTAD and key stakeholders.

The meeting emphasized ASTAD’s mission to continuously deliver iconic and sustainable projects compliant with the Qatari Environment Assessment System.

The visiting delegation was represented by Mr. Mahesh Ramanujam, USGBC’s Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Kimberly Lewis, USGBC’s Vice-President and Community Development Official and Ms. Kate

Hurst, USGBC Vice-President. They were hosted by their counterparts ASTAD’s Chief Executive Officer, Ali Al- Khalifa and Sustainability Officer Sheikh Saud Al-Thani, as well as by Mr. Meshal Al- Shammari, Director of the Qatar Green Building Council.

According to Ali Khalifa, ASTAD’s CEO, “This visit marks an important first step in what is set to develop as a fruitful partnership between our two institutions. ASTAD and USGBC are committed to a more sustainable tomorrow, which will only prove beneficial to all citizens.”

Mr. Ramanujam recognized Qatar’s leadership in environmental awareness, stating “Working together is an indication of Qatar’s initiative to promote sustainability and an environmentally friendly

lifestyle.” He concluded by indicating that this cooperation will serve as a solid foundation allowing Qatar to be an international advocate for environmental issues and sustainability.

Among the topics discussed was the importance of human rights in maintaining real long term social development as well as the importance of maintaining Qatar’s heritage and identity in its construction projects. The discussions also spanned innovation in sustainable humanitarian development reflecting upon an ASTAD-designed school for refugees in Kakuma, Kenya – a project designed in a way to be cost efficient while remaining comfortable for users through innovative integration with the environment.

Qatar hosts delegation from theUnited States Green Building Council


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Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has selected its long-time partner GE for a project that

marks Saudi Arabia’s first integration of a solar field with a combined cycle plant and the first introduction of condensate as a gas turbine fuel.

The landmark project, the ‘Green Duba’ Integrated Solar Combined Cycle Plant, will be built in the north-western part of Saudi Arabia, along the Red Sea coast, and has the capacity to generate the equivalent power needed to supply approximately 600,000 homes for a year.

“This part of Saudi Arabia is a developing region with limited grid interconnection, so the additional power generated by the Green Duba project will be tremendously important in supporting growth,” said

Eng. Ziyad M. Alshiha, president and CEO of SEC.

“We expect the plant to provide cost-efficiencies over its lifecycle, along with the fuel flexibility and solar capabilities needed to support the Kingdom’s fuel conservation and renewable technology initiatives.”

The project is designed to generate up to 550 megawatts (MW) from the combined cycle plant; the solar field will supply steam for an additional 50 MW.

The SEC order includes two highly efficient, reliable F-class gas turbines, a 7F.05 and a 7F.03; steam turbine; generators; heat recovery steam generators (HRSG); condenser; boiler feed pumps; Mark VIe distributed control system and a long-term service agreement.

“The contract is another testament to our committed partnership with SEC to further enhance the efficiency and flexibility of its plants.

“The integration of solar power and the introduction of condensate fuel at the Green Duba project is a true milestone for the Kingdom, and supports the government’s vision to promote energy sector efficiency with a focus on renewables,” said Hisham Albahkali, GE’s President & CEO for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

Recently, the first four 7F.05 gas turbines in the field successfully reached full commercial baseload operation at SEC Power Plant (PP) 12 in Riyadh. By early 2015, all eight units at PP12 will be operating in combined cycle and add nearly 2,000 megawatts.

Saudi Arabia integrates solar energy withcombined cycle for landmark power project



Committed LeadersWhen the environment is a priority issue on the leadership agenda, we can rest assured that the nation is on the right track towards sustainable living. In the United Arab Emirates, the environment has always been a priority issue since the founding father, Sheikh Zayed, showed his personal concern about the management of water resources, greening and conservation of natural heritage.

This month, the UAE is celebrating its 18th National Environment Day and the fatherly presidential patronage gave it a big boost as the UAE President, H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, called upon all citizens and residents to shoulder their personal and collective responsibility and render moral commitment towards the environment. He asserted the

commitment of the UAE at all official and civil society levels for the rational use of natural resources by investing them to boost socioeconomic development with no significant pollution in order to conserve and develop them for future generations. The National Environment Day has always been celebrated under Presidential patronage and the list of initiatives and achievements has been growing and shifting more towards green development every year.

The slogan of the 18th National Environment Day has remained the same for the past three years: “Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability”. This sounds quite logical because Green Economy is a new concept of innovative nature and its success largely depends on innovative tools, practices and solutions if it were to overcome the serious environmental and economic challenges facing the whole world today. Green Economy seems to be the only roadmap today to achieve health, prosperity and social stability for this generation, as well as ensuring protection of the rights of the future generations. If seriously taken, it can reverse the failure of the international community to achieve sustainable development through traditional economy as was envisaged by the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in June 1992 to bring harmony between environment and development.

In support of the National Initiative (2012) to make the UAE a pioneer country in the green economy field and a hub for export and re-export of green products and technologies, the President directed environment authorities to reform policies and legislation towards controlling industrial and domestic activities which emit carbon dioxide and other pollutants, and encouraging economic activities which depend on clean energy and conserve biodiversity.

Green Economy is the backbone of the UAE Green Growth Strategy which is vital for realizing the UAE Vision 2021. Hence, innovative tools and policies were adopted few years back across various developmental segments such as energy, water, transportation, environment and urban planning.

As a result, the UAE ranked first worldwide this year for stimulating innovation in the economy according to the 2015 Edelman Trust Barometer which is a vital indicator of the promising opportunities offered to facilitate and speed up efforts to transform the national economy into a green and sustainable economy through the use of current and future innovative technology tools and practices.

Green Economy has all the chances to achieve its aims as it receives full support of the wise leadership towards fulfilling the objective of building a green and sustainable future.

Dr. Eisa M. AbdelllatifChief Technical AdvisorZayed International Foundation for the Environment


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