Emirates Environmental Group discusses the role of rising buildings in achieving Net Zero

Emirates Environmental Group held its 4th panel discussion of 2024 on 27 August at the Five Palm Jumeirah Hotel, Dubai under the title “Indeterminably Rising Buildings: Addressing the Widening Net Zero Emissions”. The discussion highlighted the role of the built environment on global emissions.The panellists discussed and brought in diverse perspectives on the topic including the technological advancements that pave the way for zero-emission skyscrapers, the challenges associated with implementing zero-energy solutions in high-rise buildings, as well as discussing the economic impact of investing in zero energy buildings, in an attempt to assess the extent to which reshaping the urban landscape contribute to achieving broader sustainability goals.In her speech during the panel discussion, Ms. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Emirates Environmental Group, said that as our urban landscapes evolve at an unprecedented pace, skyscrapers are reaching new heights, reflecting the growing ambitions of communities around the world. At the same time, governments and companies have pledged to achieve net-zero emission targets, a commitment that is gaining urgency with each passing day. As our cities grow and our skylines stretch ever higher, we find ourselves at a critical juncture, where architectural ambitions need to harmonise with environmental stewardship. The phenomenon of soaring buildings represents both a triumph of human ingenuity and a significant challenge for sustainable development.She added that the panel discussion aims to discuss the challenges and solutions at the intersection of high-rise urban development and the imperative of sustainability, as the continued rise of skyscrapers in urban areas reflects the growing aspirations of communities around the world. However, amidst this vertical boom, a crucial question looms: How can we reconcile the two?She pointed out that recent research emphasises the urgent need to address the environmental impact of buildings, which are responsible for about 40% of global emissions, as a study conducted by Johnson Controls emphasises the role of decarbonising the built environment, identifying it as one of the fastest paths to achieving net-zero globally.She stressed that to achieve significant strides in reducing carbon globally, we must turn our attention to the tall structures that define modern horizons, noting that the benefits of high-rise buildings that prioritise the comfort and well-being of residents through advanced ventilation systems, indoor air quality and natural lighting, need to be net zero during its life cycle.- Our Overseas Reporter Kahilaa