Qatar launches new green-build codes
Sustainability Assessment System deemed ?first and only? unified code in region
A new code to ensure developments in Qatar meet targets on sustainability has been launched by the Barwa and Qatari Diar Research Institute (BQDRI).
According to the group, the Qatar Sustainability Assessment System (QSAS) for Cities and Urban Planning is the “first and only” unified code in the Middle East based on objective performance standards. Managing director Yousef Al-Horr called it: “The GCC’s only sustainable development solution”.
“By creating a system that addresses sustainability goals specific to the region – one which also meets the toughest international standards – QSAS is the perfect solution to the region’s need to establish a single, consistent standard for sustainable development in the construction industry,” he commented.
During a press conference, head of the Standardisation Department in the Ministry of Environment, Mohamed al Kuwari, said a uniform building code in the GCC would have a positive impact on the economic growth of the region.
The code was designed according to local needs, considering social, economic, environmental and cultural conditions, desertification, water scarcity, communication and cultural identity. Criteria falls under eight categories, which are each scored: urban connectivity, site, energy, water, materials, indoor environment, cultural and economic value, management and operations.
The system is also backed up with a software package, designed to aid planning, calculations and project assessment.
Secretary-general of GSO Anwar al Abdullah said that the forum was very important keeping in view the accelerated construction drive in the GCC region.
“We aim at building safe residential and corporate buildings while taking into consideration the rational use of water and energy.
“We now get more cooperation on the expert level to maintain standards in the field of construction,” he added.
