LEED

UAE-based smart and green total FM company Farnek has shared that through its sustainability and consultancy division, Burj Khalifa has obtained LEED O+M Platinum Certification, the optimum international standard for the operation and maintenance of green buildings.

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building program is the world’s most widely used green building rating system.

The programme provides building owners and operators with a framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building strategies.

LEED projects earn points by adhering to prerequisites and credits across nine measurements for building excellence, ranging from integrative design to human health to material use.

Farnek provided specialised LEED consultancy services, complying with LEED O+M standards, undertaking key initiatives across energy and water performance, indoor environmental quality, sustainable site management, effective transit connectivity waste management and sustainable sourcing.

Markus Oberlin, CEO, Farnek commented: “This outstanding achievement clearly demonstrates owner and operator Emaar Properties’ commitment to sustainable practices and cements the Burj Khalifa’s enviable reputation as a global sustainable landmark, aligned with the UAE’s net-zero 2050 strategy.

“Buildings are responsible for 40% of global energy carbon emissions and are routinely recognised as a critical sector in tackling climate change. LEED-certified buildings have 34% lower CO2 emissions, consume 25% less energy, 11% less water and have diverted more than 80 million tons of waste from landfills.”

“The LEED O+M certification places a strong emphasis on sustainable operations. Farnek has been providing FM services for Burj Khalifa for over a decade now and significantly contributed to its sustainability performance by implementing top-tier green building practices and sustainable operational strategies,” said Muna Al Nahdi, head of sustainability and consultancy at Farnek.

“This exceptional performance is particularly notable in areas such as energy and water efficiency and indoor air quality. We initiated the consultancy process and efficiently completed the required documentation to meet LEED requirements within just six months.

“This accomplishment was facilitated by our extensive expertise in LEED consultancy and the active involvement of our FM team. This acknowledgment underscores the significance of Farnek’s innovative and eco-conscious FM practices, which transforms ordinary structures into sustainable buildings.”

On energy performance, Farnek said that it employed “cutting-edge” energy management and optimisation strategies such as implementing smart building technologies, and the use of energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, in addition to continuous monitoring and measurement, and regular audits to identify and address areas for improvement.

Water consumption was also monitored to identify opportunities for conservation, including installing water-efficient fixtures and appliances, implementing landscaping practices that minimise water usage and diverting condensate water for irrigation purposes.

The Burj Khalifa also utilises measures such as efficient ventilation systems, controlling and monitoring indoor air quality.