Emirates Green Building Council at The Big 5

• Emirates Green Building Council puts spotlight on developing sustainable built environments at The Big 5
• Emirates GBC is one of the Supporting Associations of leading business and networking platform for the construction industry
• To highlight various aspects relating to sustainable development at Green Build Congress

Emirates Green Building Council (Emirates GBC), an organisation aimed at conserving the environment by strengthening and promoting green building practices in the UAE, is putting the spotlight on how the construction sector can contribute to sustainable development at The Big 5 exhibition.

To be held from November 21 to 24, 2011 at the Dubai International Exhibition & Convention Centre, The Big 5 is the leading business and networking platform for the construction industry, and Emirates GBC is a ‘Supporting Association’ of the event.

The Big 5 also co-hosts two other important industry events: Middle East Concrete, which will showcase the latest products, machinery and technology for the concrete industry; and PMV Live, offering a unique mix of products, technology, machinery and live demonstrations for the Plant, Machinery and Vehicles sector.

At its dedicated exhibition stand at The Big 5, Emirates GBC will showcase its spectrum of activities aimed at engaging all stakeholders in the supply chain to advance green building principles that help protect the environment and foster sustainability. Individuals and corporate organisations can also register their interest to become members of Emirates GBC at the exhibition stand.

Mr Adnan Sharafi, Chairman, Emirates GBC, said: “The Big 5 is a key industry event that brings together all stakeholders in the construction sector. According to the International Energy Agency, buildings are responsible for nearly 40 per cent of the world’s primary energy consumption and about 24 per cent of the global carbon dioxide emissions, making them a critical component in any sustainable development initiative.”

He added: “Through our support to The Big 5 and our participation at the exhibition, we aim to promote environmental awareness and knowledge of how buildings can contribute to environmental degradation. This is particularly relevant now with massive investments in the infrastructure and construction sector, and the regional governments focusing on green developments. Our objective is to inspire various stakeholders to take proactive steps to incorporate ‘green design’ principles right from site selection and planning to design, development, the materials used and operational stage.”

Emirates GBC’s association with The Big 5 is also in line with its vision to actively support the UAE to be one of the five global leaders in helping to reduce the ecological footprint of the sustainable building environment by 2015. Dr Sadek Owainati, Co–Founder and Mr Jeffrey Willis, Vice Chair of Emirates GBC are on the Advisory Board of the event.

Emirates GBC Board Secretary Mr Sarfraz Dairkee will make a presentation at the Green Build Congress, which is held on the sidelines of The Big 5, focused on green leadership, while the Vice Chairmen of the Council, Mr Saeed Alabbar and Mr Jeffrey Willis, will participate as panellists at various sessions.

In addition to networking events for members and non-members held monthly, Emirates GBC hosts and participates in multinational events, conferences and forums. The Council has developed a suite of activities including technical workshops, focus days and seminars and workshops on aspects related to the entire supply chain and green building concepts. Recently, Emirates GBC opened its new office in Al Joud Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

Emirates GBC is inviting corporates and individuals and, who are dedicated to sustainable solutions and practices. Members in the Council gain significant benefits that include taking part in networking events and comprehensive programmes led by industry leaders, in addition to a range of other benefits. To become a member, please log on to: http://www.emiratesgbc.org/egbc/becomemember.htm

The Big 5 serves as an ideal platform for buyers and sellers of construction products and services from around the world to source the latest technologies, innovations and techniques. The largest building and construction show in the Middle East & North Africa (MENA), the event features more than 2,500 exhibitors and over 70 country pavilions.