Abu Dhabi [UAE]January 9 (ANI/WAM): The Abu Dhabi Municipality stressed that the Estidama Pearl Rating System is a tiered rating system ranging from one to five pearls. It evaluates buildings based on their compliance with sustainability requirements. Government-funded projects must achieve at least a two-pearl rating, while privately funded projects must achieve at least a one-pearl rating. Fulfilling these requirements is essential for obtaining a building permit.
Abu Dhabi Municipality's Sustainable Buildings Department reported that since the beginning of the year, 304 projects in the design phase and 81 projects in the construction phase have met the Estidama sustainability standards in Abu Dhabi and its suburbs.
Regarding the key criteria that a project must meet to receive the Estidama Pearl Rating for sustainability, the Sustainable Buildings Department confirmed that the Estidama system includes both mandatory and optional credits. Completing the optional credits earns points that increase a project's overall sustainability score and can result in a higher pearl rating.
The Estidama system includes several main credit categories with numerous sub-clauses. These credit categories include integrated development systems, natural systems, indoor and outdoor quality of life, water, energy and building materials. For example, in the Indoor and Outdoor Quality of Life category, the Sustainable Buildings department focuses on ensuring good indoor air quality and sufficient shade in outdoor areas such as parking lots and sidewalks to increase the comfort of the building's occupants.
The “Sustainable Buildings” section explained its process for verifying compliance with sustainability requirements. The team begins by reviewing the original project concept draft to gather comprehensive information and understand the specific context of the project. This allows them to determine the best approach to applying sustainability standards and support the project team in selecting the most appropriate credit options. This section also examines the project submission strategy to ensure that the proposed project meets the highest sustainability standards. This includes reviewing specifications and materials related to green building standards, which are then incorporated into the project specifications before engaging the contractor to ensure their mandatory implementation during the construction phase.
The Sustainable Buildings Department clarified that many stakeholders are involved in the implementation of the Estidama Pearl Rating System for buildings and villas. This includes all property owners, consultants and Pearl Qualified Professionals (PQP). These specialists have been trained and assessed to ensure they can effectively apply the system's requirements within project teams. They are also responsible for submitting applications for Estidama compliance and operate within the framework established by the Ministry of Municipalities and Transport, which currently governs the Pearl Rating System guidelines.
Regarding the positive impact of implementing the Pearl rating system, the Sustainable Buildings Department explained that it extends the lifespan of buildings, reduces operating costs, increases occupant comfort and minimizes environmental impact. This is particularly important considering that the construction sector accounts for 40 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition, this system contributes to a significant reduction in water and energy consumption compared to projects that do not apply the Estidama Pearl Rating System.
The Abu Dhabi Municipality highlighted the Estidama Pearl Rating System as a crucial factor in ensuring the sustainability of the construction sector in Abu Dhabi. Many development projects use the Estidama system to incorporate sustainability principles into their designs, contributing to Abu Dhabi's goal of becoming a leading sustainable city.
It is worth noting that the Abu Dhabi Municipality's Sustainable Buildings Department specializes in implementing the Estidama Pearl Rating System for buildings and villas during the design and construction phases. This system promotes the principles of green building and increases the comfort of residents.
The Section actively encourages and supports project teams to exceed the minimum rating of one pearl and achieve two or more pearls. This is done by supporting teams in selecting optional credits that increase a building's sustainability rating, providing additional support and guidance for projects seeking a classification above the mandatory minimum, and ensuring proper implementation while selecting sustainable materials is supported for every project. (ANI/WAM)
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