Sharjah24: As part of its participation in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), the Public Works Department in Sharjah participated in three discussion sessions. Throughout these discussions, the department presented information about a building with zero carbon emissions and shared its experiences in achieving sustainability objectives in constructions. Various models implemented in this sector were highlighted, encompassing aspects like carbon emissions neutrality, energy-efficient structures, and the incorporation of sustainable and renewable energy sources.

The department also introduced successful sustainability models, reaching out to the global community to convey Sharjah's vision for attaining sustainability in buildings and achieving carbon neutrality. Engineer Ali Saeed Bin Shaheen Al Suwaidi, Chairman of the Department highlighted the positive outcomes of several projects undertaken during COP28, showcasing advancements in sustainability and energy conservation within its buildings.

In the first discussion session organised by the Emirates Green Building Council, Al Suwaidi delved into project results, including the Customs Building in the Sharjah Book Authority. This structure, classified with a gold rating, proved to be energy-efficient, generating 32,000 kilowatt-hours annually and consuming 28,000 kilowatt-hours annually. It employs 56 photovoltaic panels, resulting in a 13% surplus in electricity production and the elimination of 140,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide.

Al Suwaidi also discussed the department's initiatives during COP28, such as constructing two eco-friendly mosques employing radiant cooling systems and energy-efficient designs. These mosques use air radiant conditioning systems, reducing carbon footprint and saving 14% of electrical energy consumption, equivalent to eliminating 620 kilograms of carbon dioxide. They are classified with a silver rating.

In the second discussion session organised by the Ministry of Community Development, Engineer Mira Al Mazroo from the Building Projects Management Department discussed the application of sustainability standards and technology in green building construction. She emphasised the integration of designs and systems focusing on energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.

In the third session organised by the Emirates Green Building Council, Engineer Rami Al Soudi from the Contracts Department discussed carbon-free buildings and automated building operation systems for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. These environmentally friendly systems lead to a reduction in carbon emissions and the use of eco-friendly gases like gas 32 and gas 410 in air conditioning devices.