In light of increasing global discussions about Climate Change and Global Warming, including The COP28 UN Climate Change Conference held in Dubai in December 2023, property development and real estate development management companies are racing towards adopting green practices aiming to contribute to Net-Zero goals.
In the UAE, the Net Zero 2050 Strategy builds upon the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative which outlines the UAE’s ambitious journey towards net zero, and the National Net Zero by 2050 Pathway, which sets out the timeline and mechanisms for this transition. The strategy covers 25 programs across 6 key sectors, including buildings, power, and waste among others, with a focus on enhancing efficiency, expanding the utilization of renewable energy sources, and implementing green building practices.
In line with this strategy, sustainable architecture is emerging as a key component, helping developers minimize the impact of buildings on the environment through improved efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, development space and the ecosystem at large. The top principles of the sustainable architecture concept comprise building to the Net-Zero scheme, sustainable design, durability, energy efficiency, waste reduction, indoor air quality, water conservation and sustainable building materials.
According to one report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), switching to greener technologies in construction and operation of buildings and materials, combined with more climate-friendly capital markets, could reduce the construction value chain’s carbon footprint by 23 percent by 2035.
Among the companies pioneering sustainable efforts in the real estate arena is Royal Development Company which has been taking leaps towards greener practices in real estate development. The company puts sustainability at the core of its development management philosophy, demonstrating a clear commitment towards creating eco-friendly communities that harmonize with the environment by leveraging innovative real estate solutions.
Prioritizing the use of green and locally-sourced materials to ensure minimal environmental impact throughout the construction process, Las Marias, Argentina, managed by Royal Development Company, represents a model of eco-friendly developments. Designed as a sustainable haven, the project integrates eco-friendly practices to preserve the surrounding natural landscapes, featuring natural building materials like clay bricks and wood.
Another example of Royal Development Company’s green practices is Reem Heights in Lahore Pakistan, boasting a thoughtful design that fosters a fluid connection between interior spaces and public open areas. The project embraces sustainability and climate resilience as integral components of its urban design, adopting a comprehensive real estate strategy for a smart and green neighborhood, including Smart Parking solutions to optimize available space, enhancing accessibility while minimizing congestion. With a commitment to eco-friendly practices, Reem Heights aims to achieve a LEED certification for Cities and Communities with a prestigious GOLD rating.
Moreover, Royal Development Company chooses to preserve the natural environment hosting its various hospitality, residential and mixed-use developments, seamlessly blending luxury with sustainability, and catering to eco-conscious travelers, guests and homeowners through green building standards and operations.
Such projects include the prestigious Conrad Rabat Arzana Resort in Morocco, which draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural identity, landscape, and history; the Mallside Residence & Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton in Dubai, which offers easy access to the city’s largest park; Albizya Bay in the Seychelles; and the Viceroy Kopaonik Hotel in Serbia, nestled within the embrace of Kopaonik National Park and intricately woven into the nature’s fabric.
Another example of the importance of meticulous design and graceful architecture, Waldorf Astoria Grand Hotel in Minsk stands as a testament to high-quality neoclassical architecture, exuding elegance through its simple shapes, harmonious proportions, and precise geometry. Fitting harmoniously within its environment, this development is the embodiment of eco-friendly developments.
Furthermore, The Scarlet Beach Resort & Spa in Petrothalassa Bay, Greece illustrates an architectural masterpiece working in harmony with nature. The project seamlessly incorporates the latest amenities and infrastructure of the hospitality sector without disrupting the vital connection visitors have with the environment, as nature preservation has guided every architectural decision involved in the development of this resort.
Similarly, the Waldorf Astoria Platte Island in Seychelles stands as a visual masterpiece maximizing beach frontage and treating every guest to an intimate connection with nature’s wonders. Drawing inspiration from the island’s natural allure, the resort mirrors the grace of Hawksbill Turtles and the allure of Coco de Mer, blending contemporary aesthetics with the untouched beauty of the surroundings.
Other projects by Royal Development Company incorporate energy-efficient technologies, reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable living. They employ advanced water-saving technologies, such as smart irrigation systems and greywater recycling to minimize water consumption.
The Jabal Al Hafeet development in Al Ain encapsulates the essence of these practices, creating a self-sufficient community that perfectly integrates with its surroundings. From reliable sources of potable water to a robust electricity grid and efficient sewage systems, residents can expect a seamless integration of essential utilities. Acknowledging the forces of nature, the project incorporates advanced storm water management, mitigating potential risks and enhancing the community’s resilience in the face of adverse weather conditions. Thoughtful landscaping and irrigation systems have been implemented as well, while green spaces have been meticulously curated. In a commitment to maintaining the pristine surroundings, each Jabal Al Hafeet home features a designated Garbage Room, integrating waste management into the villa’s design and promoting cleanliness and environmental responsibility.
Moving forward, Royal Development Company strives to harness the power of AI solutions to design and oversee the construction of sustainable buildings, while aligning with international green building standards, ensuring projects meet rigorous environmental and sustainability criteria.
The future of building is green, with sustainable architecture standing at the heart of this journey to create communities for life. As more developers adopt green practices, Royal Development Company’s efforts in this field are visible, helping advance communities on the path of sustainability and creating marvelous spaces in respect of the environment for generations to come.
By: Tariq Nazzal, The General Manager of Royal Development Company.