Bringing “green” into real estate

With sustainability and environmental awareness becoming a crucial part of most industries, real estate does not fall behind. UAE’s sustainability projects and long-term solutions provide a valid space for environmentally-friendly properties. However, some developers argue that sustainable construction is expensive and not worth the effort.

The CEO of Fakhruddin Properties Yousuf Fakhruddin considers that now is the best time to invest into the environment. He is certain that the new building designs can help fight climate change and benefit a countries’ economy. He further continued: “However, while there is a lot of focus on green practices and sustainability programmes are now being implemented in a variety of ways, it is still a work in progress. The initiatives, encouragement, subsidies, and of course, the emergence of innovative solutions makes this time very ripe for developers to make the transformation towards building a better world.”

With today’s technology there is a variety of options of how to build sustainable. Such methods as indoor air quality management, integration of intelligent water conservation and monitoring technology in buildings, and home automation solutions can substantially improve sustainability and be cost-effective in the long term for both the developers and residents. 

Apart from some developers being reluctant and sceptical, when it comes to the cost-efficiency of sustainable building, reluctant buyers and renters is another problem of this direction. Most people would prefer to spend more money on conventional and handy things (which they can have and use now), instead of spending money on a potentially better environment in the future. Because of this problem, developers have to put in more effort in finding, integrating and affording long-term sustainable solutions, as they have more and better means for integration rather individual residents. 

Developers in the UAE now have perfect conditions to do the right thing for the planet without putting a dent in their budgets, because of the government’s focus on sustainability. A good starting point will be by integrating water recycling systems. Circulating water could save tenants money on water expenses and optimise use. Another important modification that should be a must in construction is paint and glass that are more energy-efficient. They tend to help decrease operational costs by lowering the need for repair and repainting.

Moving forward with the modern world, we understand that the real estate industry (as many others) will face a long and difficult battle for sustainability. However, with an effort from the government, developers and just us, people, there is a big chance that we can make sustainability our new reality.