Exploring Innovations in Sustainable Skyscraper Design

UAE is home to some of the most noteworthy and prominent innovative skyscrapers and super-tall structures in the world. While high rise buildings offer an arresting visual, sustainability has become the key factor that is borne in mind while designing buildings. Conventional architectural styles have now been replaced by cutting-edge green building technologies in the construction of super tall structures.

Sustainable architecture is vital to green urban planning and building cities of the future. Developing buildings with sustainable features and green supertall structures has now become the norm. Across the globe, developers are promoting sustainable growth by incorporating top-of-the line energy efficient technology, solar powered systems, wind turbines and innovative structural techniques that allow natural ventilation.

The most recent addition to the list of sustainable skyscrapers is the recently opened Shanghai Tower that holds the coveted title of being the world’s second tallest building. Apart from its height, it is also known for its unique design that enables energy savings of 21-22 percent over a skyscraper of comparable size. Promoting green or energy-efficient buildings is integral to the surrounding natural environment.

High-rise buildings, especially commercial buildings consume a significant amount of energy. It has been reported that buildings contribute over 30% of total global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, chiefly through the use of fossil fuels during their operational phase. To mitigate GHG emissions from buildings, it has become vital to introduce climate-smart infrastructure projects.

A few months back, US Green Building Council (USGBC) named UAE as one of the top 10 markets for green building space. According to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), UAE hosts over 66% of the total number of skyscrapers in the Middle East region. With 990 projects, UAE is ranked fifth internationally in terms of Leed-certified and registered projects. LEED is a widely used green building rating system globally and achieving Leed-certification is a sustainable goal for organizations. Indicative of progressive architecture, the UAE has a number of innovatively designed buildings using modern technology that meet the standards of sustainability.

Elaborating on the topic of Sustainable Innovations in Building Facades, Design & Technology at the summit will be industry expert Mr. Christopher Brown, Design Director of Woods Bagot. The summit will be held on 16-17 May 2016, at Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. More information on the Summit is available now at http://www.smartskyscrapers.com/. Follow the Summit on social media with the hashtag #SKYSUM2016.