Technology on way to forecasting humanity's needs

This epidemic invasion tree identifies 3,200 separate population nodes worldwide linked to the H5N1 avian flu pandemic of 2003-04 that originated in Hanoi. Time ordering of the epidemic's movement is displayed from the earliests paths in dark red, moving to light red, yellow, green and blue as time progressed. Illustration by Alessandro Vespignani, Indiana University

Much as meteorologists predict the path and intensity of hurricanes, Indiana University's Alessandro Vespignani believes we will one day predict with unprecedented foresight, specificity and scale such things as the economic and social effects of billions of new Internet users in China and India, or the exact location and number of airline flights to cancel around the world in order to halt the spread of a pandemic.

In July 24 "Perspectives" section of the journal Science, Vespignani writes that advances in complex networks theory and modelling, along with access to new data, will enable humans to achieve true predictive power in areas never before imagined. This capability will be realized as the one wild card in the mix -- the social behaviour of large aggregates of humans -- becomes more definable through progress in data gathering, new informatics tools and increases in computational power.

Vespignani is the James H. Rudy Professor of Informatics and adjunct professor of physics and statistics at IU, where he is also the director of the Centre for Complex Networks and Systems Research (CNetS) at IU's Pervasive Technology Institute and the IU Bloomington School of Informatics and Computing.

Researchers have already shown they can track the movement of as many as 100,000 people at a time over six months using mobile phone data, and use worldwide currency traffic as a proxy for human mobility. There are sensors and tags generating data at micro, one-to-one interaction levels, much as Bluetooth, Global Positioning Systems and WiFi leave behind detailed traces of our lives.

Such are some of the new sources of basic information that researchers are using to gain knowledge about aggregated human behaviour. This new "reality mining" should in turn enhance the ability of researchers and scientists to accurately forecast the effects of phenomena like catastrophic events, mass population movements or invasions of new organisms into ecosystems, Vespignani said.

This epidemic invasion tree identifies 3,200 separate population nodes worldwide linked to the H5N1 avian flu pandemic of 2003-04 that originated in Hanoi. Time ordering of the epidemic's movement is displayed from the earliests paths in dark red, moving to light red, yellow, green and blue as time progressed.

"It is analogous to what happened in physics when we saw the shift from the study of atomic and molecular physics to the study of the physics of matter," he said. "Here we see a movement from the study of a small number of elements, or small social groups, to the study of the behaviour of large-scale social systems consisting of millions of people that can be characterized in space, both social and geographic, and in time."

In his article "Predicting the Behaviour of Techno-Social Systems," Vespignani also recognizes challenges in creating a predictive system that includes social adaptation. Large-scale data, for example, is still needed about how information spreads and society reacts in times of crisis, but he believes advancing communications databases may address that issue.

Quantifying effects of risk perception and awareness phenomena among individuals on the larger techno-social network's structure and dynamics needs to be designed into formal models, he added, and a need remains for the deployment of monitoring infrastructures capable of supplying real time information to computational models.
"While the needed integrated approach is still in its infancy, using network theory, mathematical biology, statistics, computer science and non-equilibrium statistical physics will play a key role in the creation of computational forecasting infrastructures," Vespignani said. "And that should help us design better energy distribution systems, plan for traffic-free cities and manage the deployment of the world's resources."

Vespignani's work on complex systems appears again in the same "Perspectives" section of Science as he is listed as co-author with five others on lead author Frank Schweitzer's "Economic Networks: The New Challenges."
Schweitzer, of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, led the research examining interdependencies of economic networks as complex systems. The paper, among other things, notes a need for advancing research on the complexities of the international financial network that in turn could lead to revision and extension of established paradigms in economic theory.

Zero Carbon Homes

The University of Nottingham has started work on two concept homes, in partnership with Tarmac Limited, designed to provide house builders and registered social landlords with a blueprint for low cost, zero carbon homes that can be built in large numbers across the country.

The two semi-detached properties are being built as part of the next phase of The University of Nottingham’s pioneering research into innovative energy efficient homes for the future. The latest buildings will be the first in the UK to demonstrate that it is possible to build zero carbon homes using traditional masonry building techniques as part of large scale development.

Dr Mark Gillott, who is leading the Creative Energy Homes Project at the School of Built Environment, said, "The research we are undertaking here at the University of Nottingham is essential due to the massive step changes in design and construction practice required to meet the UK's Code for Sustainable Homes targets — the post occupancy evaluation of these homes is important in allowing us to understand how they work in reality and not just on paper."

Phil Sabin, Tarmac’s Business Development Manager adds: “Up until now, zero-carbon homes in the UK have been one-off showpieces which nobody lives in, or they are highly costly ‘Grand Designs’ which only a small minority of people can afford.

“We are breaking new ground by building two properties which are affordable, zero- carbon and could potentially be built as part of large-scale development. With Government targets for all new homes to be zero carbon by 2016, together with its plans for three million new homes to be built by 2020, it is vital that we use this research project in Nottingham to show the construction industry how this can be achieved.”

Researchers, in collaboration with Tarmac and its partners Lovell, the leading affordable house builder, and Bill Dunster Architects are hoping to understand how meeting the highest levels of zero-carbon housing translates into practical reality.

The project will also tackle some of the industry myths that still surround the Code for Sustainable Homes (CfSH). This includes misconceptions relating to the Green Code product specification and the optimum mix of renewables required for Code Level 6 properties.

The Tarmac home is the latest home to be built on Green Close on University Park near the School of Built Environment. It expected to be completed by July 2009. It will provide accommodations for visiting academics while researchers will analyse the energy usage and thermal efficiency as well as how occupants potentially have to adapt to living in a Code Level 6 and 4 properties.

A total of six homes are planned for Green Close. Last year saw the completion of the BASF house which showcases all the latest technology for energy efficient living. E-ON has also collaborated with the University to build a 1930s style house to assess cost effective measures for reducing carbon emissions from ageing domestic properties.

Recycled Glass Floors in a Whole New Light

Stonhard’s commitment to sustainability is stronger than ever. The Stonclad GR product incorporates recycled materials and Stonhard’s unique packaging methods minimise waste.

Stonhard, the world leader in seamless, high-performing resinous floor, wall and lining systems is doing its part in the effort to conserve earth’s resources by urging customers to walk on glass.

Recycled glass aggregate forms the base of Stonhard’s Stonclad GR flooring system. When mixed with an epoxy resin, amine curing agent and rapidly renewable, soy-based additives, the result is a long-lasting, seamless, easy to maintain, abrasion, chemical and wear resistant floor that is suitable for application in various settings, including manufacturing, food and beverage, retail, educational and public spaces.

Because it incorporates both recycled and rapidly renewable materials, Stonclad GR can help projects accumulate points as they pursue LEED certification. Twelve standard colours and the option for custom shades expand the limits of design possibility. And, the Stonclad GR system can be further customised, with coatings, waterproofing, cove bases and fibreglass reinforcement, to meet the specific needs of each application.

Stonhard’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t end at eco-conscious product formulations. Unique packaging methods prevent pails and cans from ending up in landfills, and an aggressive recycling program prevents returned and unused material from being released into the waste stream.

World’s First Ecomagination Centre at Masdar City

GE to be an anchor partner in Masdar City

In a joint Masdar-GE agreement, the two companies outlined plans to house a new Ecomagination Centre, focused on sustainable business solutions and to form a broader R&D relationship that will support the development and deployment of new and innovative technologies. This centre is part of a multi-faceted strategic partnership signed by Mubadala and GE in July 2008.

Masdar City, currently under construction, will be the world’s first carbon-neutral, zero-waste city completely powered by renewable energy. Masdar is driven by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (ADFEC), a wholly owned company of Mubadala Development Company. The City is a reflection of the long term strategic commitment by the government of Abu Dhabi to accelerate the development and deployment of future energy solutions.

Ecomagination is GE’s commitment to conceive and construct pioneering technologies that help customers address their environmental and financial needs. The Ecomagination Centre at Masdar City will support the development of energy efficient products in the region and will raise awareness of energy conservation among the Masdar City community. The Centre will also showcase GE technologies, including wind, solar and other renewable energy products that will power the next generation “smart” electrical grid, water purification technology, and energy-efficient appliances for the home

“This is truly a landmark partnership in the development of Masdar City because it will allow us to jointly develop, deploy, scale and market innovative solutions in renewable energy and sustainability.” Masdar CEO Dr Sultan Al Jaber said. “We are excited that GE will be an anchor tenant at Masdar City, as we aim to build the world’s Silicon Valley for clean technology”.

The multi-faceted agreement also provides a framework for Masdar and GE to explore areas of R&D collaboration in the development of Clean Tech products. Masdar will be able to leverage GE’s technological expertise with the aim of ultimately including these technologies in the Masdar City development.

The Ecomagination Centre is expected to be up to 4,000 square meters in size and will be located near the Masdar Institute, Masdar’s graduate-level institution dedicated to academic research and study in the development and deployment of the future of energy.

The Ecomagination Centre is a product of the GE and Mubadala framework agreement, signed in July 2008, on a global partnership encompassing a broad range of initiatives including commercial finance, clean energy research and development, aviation, industry and corporate learning. Building on an already strong relationship and a common view of high growth opportunities in the Middle East and globally, the agreement provides for shared capital commitments to new joint ventures and investment funds.

For more information on GE and Mubadala, visit www.ge.com/news/partnership.

ISO 15392:2008 - Sustainability in building construction

ISO establishes the first international standard on sustainability principles for building construction sector worldwide with a big focus on social environment

The new ISO 15392:2008 standard establishes internationally recognised principles for sustainability in building construction. It thus provides a common basis for communication between stakeholders such as builders and architects, product manufacturers and designers, building owners, policy makers and regulators, housing authorities, and consumers.

ISO 15392 is based on the concept of sustainable development as it applies to buildings and other construction works, from "the cradle to the grave". Over their life cycle, construction works absorb considerable resources and contribute to the transformation of the environment. As a result, they can have considerable economic consequences, and impacts on both the environment and human health.

The foundations elaborated in ISO 15392:2008, Sustainability in building construction – General principles, form the basis for a suite of standards intended to address specific issues and aspects of sustainability. They are applicable to buildings and other construction works individually and collectively, as well as to building materials, products, services and processes.

The building and construction sector is a key sector in national economies and the built environment is a major element in determining quality of life, as well as contributing to cultural identity and heritage.

Addressing sustainability in buildings and other construction works includes the interpretation and consideration of sustainable development in terms of its three primary aspects – economic, environmental, and social aspects – while meeting the requirements for technical and functional performance.

The principles elaborated in ISO 15392 take into account that while the challenge of sustainable development is global, the strategies for addressing sustainability in building construction are essentially local and differ in context and content from region to region.

The standard acknowledges that these strategies will reflect the context, the preconditions and the priorities and needs, not only in the built environment, but also in the social environment. This social environment includes social equity, culture, traditions, heritage, health and comfort, social infrastructure and safe and healthy environments. It may, in addition, particularly in developing countries, include poverty reduction and job creation.

Leaders of the international committees that develop ISO’s International Standards met in Geneva, Switzerland, for a two-day conference to improve further the efficiency and global relevance of the organisation’s standards development system.

ISO secretary-general Alan Bryden put their work in context by declaring, “Not only is business global today, but so is the response to a number of challenges, such as climate change, with all its complexity, and the provision of food for a growing world population, as well as constraints on supplies of raw materials, energy, water, security and healthcare.

ISO president Håkan Murby said, “We contend that our standards, taken as a whole, make a major contribution to all three dimensions of sustainability: economic growth, environmental integrity and social equity.”

The ISO president explained how ISO standards addressed each of these aspects. Firstly, by providing tools for business transactions and eliminating barriers to trade, consolidating innovation and contributing to interoperability and the dissemination of new technologies and best practices, ISO standards fuel economic growth. The “toolbox” of standards for conformity assessment, which can be used to increase confidence in products and services, is also part of this contribution.

In the environmental field, ISO standards support the dissemination of environmentally friendly and energy efficient technologies and practices. There are moreover, a growing number of standards on sustainability in relation to activities such as building construction, treatment of waste, the quality of water services, and air, water and soil quality. ISO has also recently launched strategic initiatives on energy efficiency and renewable sources.

As for social equity, there are standards on consumer protection, safety at work, accessibility requirements for people with disabilities, and a diverse range of healthcare initiatives. Murby added, “Consensus-based standards for products and services on the one hand, and for conformity assessment procedures on the other, are of growing interest to public policy makers in the context of good public governance and better regulation.”

What is ISO 15392?

The true meaning and objective of ISO 15392 can be found in the general principles. We see a paradigm shift in terms of green buildings being the goal; the focus is now entirely on sustainable development – and on how green buildings can contribute towards achieving it.

“Many sustainable development objectives do not directly relate to, and yet are clearly influenced by, the built environment. Instead of referring to absolute attributes, such as “sustainable construction” or “sustainable building”, it is more appropriate to discuss the extent to which the built environment and its elements support and contribute to sustainable development.”

The suite of standards intended to address specific issues and aspects of sustainability in building construction relies heavily on the foundations described in ISO 15392:2008, Sustainability in building construction – General principles (You can purchase a copy at www.iso.org at a price of 96 Swiss Francs).

On the issue of ‘environmental declaration of building products’ in building construction, the general principles makes it amply clear that the declaration must comply with ISO 21930. Environmental declarations according to ISO 21930 and ISO 14025 are declarations with specific focus on environmental impact. Declarations for other sustainability aspects are being developed by the ISO (service life declarations, product declarations, etc.)

When it comes to the ‘framework for methods of assessment for environmental performance of construction works’, the general principle states ISO/TS 21931:2006 provides a general framework for improving the quality and comparability of methods for assessing the environmental performance of buildings. It identifies and describes issues to be taken into account when using methods for the assessment of environmental performance for new or existing building properties in the design, construction, operation, refurbishment and deconstruction stages.

What is most exciting is the clause, “It is intended be used in conjunction with, and following the principles set out in, the ISO 14000 series of International Standards.”

Many developers in the UAE are yet to be ISO 14001 certified. There is a genuine lack of understanding of the relevance of ISO 14001 in the Middle East market. Many companies are still in the process of securing an ISO 9001 certification, and are completely unaware of the importance of ISO 14001.

The ISO 15392 guideline, which focuses heavily on sustainability, gives very clear definition on the subject. Sustainability is defined as, "state in which components of the ecosystem and their functions are maintained for the present and future generations."

The document admits that the challenge of sustainability is global and the strategies for sustainability in building construction are local and differ in context and content from region to region.

“In building construction, it relates to how the attributes of the activities, products or services used in the construction work or the use of the construction works contribute to the maintenance of ecosystem components and functions for future generations.”

It also identifies the “components of the ecosystem” as one that includes plants and animals, as well as humans and their physical environment. It recognises the significance of cultural conditions for societies’ existence as a key element of human need apart from the economic, environmental and social aspects.

Referring to the Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development, the guideline states that overriding priority should be given to eradication of poverty and to meet the essential needs of the world's poor.

Sustainable Development is defined as, "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

ISO 15392 provides a great opportunity for planners to put ‘sustainable development’ on the top of their agenda. The very idea that all resources should provide a better quality of life, equally for present and future generations, is one that could change the world we live in. The clear objective of ISO 15392 is to encourage sustainable development in its true sense, taking a holistic look at our society and environment.

In many parts of the world, social justice and empowering the poor seems to be a distant dream. Now that ISO has set the standard, and with 157 nations being signatories to it, the world simply cannot turn its back on ISO 15392. Like all other ISO standards, ISO 15392 too is a voluntary standard. What it does is – it gives us a chance to create a sustainable and just world.

ISO 15392:2008

• identifies and establishes general principles for sustainability in building construction. It is based on the concept of sustainable development as it applies to the life cycle of buildings and other construction works, from their inception to the end of life



• is applicable to buildings and other construction works individually and collectively, as well as to the materials, products, services and processes related to the life cycle of buildings and other construction works



• does not provide levels (benchmarks) that can serve as the basis for sustainability claims. It is not intended to provide the basis for assessment of organizations or other stakeholders

ISO 21930:2007

• provides the principles and requirements for type III environmental declarations (EPD) of building products



• contains specifications and requirements for the EPD of building products. Where this International Standard contains more specific requirements, it complements ISO 14025 for the EPD of building products



• provides a framework for and the basic requirements for product category rules as defined in ISO 14025 for type III environmental declarations of building products. Type III environmental declarations for building products, as described in ISO 21930:2007, are primarily intended for use in business-to-business communication, but their use in business-to-consumer communication under certain conditions is not precluded



• does not define requirements for developing type III environmental declaration programmes. Requirements for type III environmental declaration programmes are found in ISO 14025

Important features of ISO 21930 for the environmental declaration of a building material include:

• Using the full life cycle of the material as the basis for comparison or declaration


• Where the full life cycle is not used, it must be stated that it is not for comparison


• A set of environmental impact characterisation indicators and information that must be justified if omitted


• A process for developing a list of environmental information that must be reported


• Documentation and verification process


• Reference to already established ISO Life Cycle Assessment standards to underpin the methodology


• Linking to other ISO standards for ‘Sustainability in Building Construction’ to provide the context for the environmental performance of the whole building

ISO 14001:2004

ISO 14001:2004 specifies requirements for an environmental management system to enable an organization to develop and implement a policy and objectives which take into account legal requirements and other requirements to which the organization subscribes, and information about significant environmental aspects. It applies to those environmental aspects that the organization identifies as those which it can control and those which it can influence. It does not itself state specific environmental performance criteria.

ISO 14001:2004 is applicable to any organization that wishes to establish, implement, maintain and improve an environmental management system, to assure itself of conformity with its stated environmental policy, and to demonstrate conformity with ISO 14001:2004 by

• making a self-determination and self-declaration, or



• seeking confirmation of its conformance by parties having an interest in the organization, such as customers, or



• seeking confirmation of its self-declaration by a party external to the organization, or



• seeking certification/registration of its environmental management system by an external organization

All the requirements in ISO 14001:2004 are intended to be incorporated into any environmental management system. The extent of the application will depend on factors such as the environmental policy of the organization, the nature of its activities, products and services and the location where and the conditions in which it functions.

Masdar HQ - Breathtaking Solar Architecture

Masdar, Abu Dhabi's multi-billion dollar investment in the development and commercialisation of advanced and innovative technologies in renewable, alternative, sustainable energies and green design, has chosen Chicago architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture (AS+GG) to design its headquarters in Abu Dhabi's Masdar City.

Masdar City is the world's first zero-carbon, zero-waste city fully powered by renewable energy. The headquarters will be the world's first large-scale, mixed-use "positive energy" building, producing more energy than it consumes. In addition to being the location of Masdar Headquarters, the building will accommodate private residences and 'early bird' businesses starting up in the city.

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, said AS+GG is internationally recognised for high-performance, energy-efficient and sustainable architecture. "We know Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture share our vision for Masdar's headquarters. This building is at the heart of Masdar City, and its net positive energy design and new innovations will reflect our mission of developing sustainable future energy solutions."

AS+GG teamed with Chicago-based MEP engineers Environmental Systems Design and structural engineers Thornton Tomasetti on the design, which includes numerous systems that will generate a surplus of the building's energy, eliminate carbon emissions and reduce liquid and solid waste. The complex will utilize sustainable materials and feature integrated wind turbines, outdoor air quality monitors and one of the world's largest building-integrated solar energy arrays. Compared with typical mixed-use buildings of the same size, the Headquarters will consume 70 per cent less water.

"In line with the Abu Dhabi 2030 Development Plan, Masdar is choosing to emphasize sustainability over height. We hope and expect this will set a new direction for worldwide competition in sustainable design," Dr. Al Jaber continued.

In addition to being the first mixed-use net positive energy building in the world, AS+GG's Masdar Headquarters will:

• Be the lowest energy consumer per square meter for a modern class A office building in an extremely hot and humid climate

• Feature one of the world's largest building-integrated photovoltaic arrays

• Employ the largest solar thermal driven cooling and dehumidification system

• Be the first building in history to generate power for its own assembly, through development of its solar roof pier before the underlying complex


"We're thrilled to be working on a project of this importance and magnitude. Masdar Headquarters is one of the most significant developments of our time," said Adrian Smith, partner, AS+GG. "As a positive energy complex, the project will have a far-reaching influence on the buildings of tomorrow."

"Masdar Headquarters will set a new paradigm for the way buildings are designed, constructed and inhabited," said Gordon Gill, partner, AS+GG. "The project represents the perfect integration of architecture and engineering, resulting in a dynamic, inviting building that outperforms any other structure of its type in the world."

The design competition for Masdar's headquarters was managed by the Louis Berger Group and began with a field of 159 participants, which was narrowed down to 15 architecture and design firms. The criteria for selection of the 15 included building functionality, water and wastewater efficiency, indoor environmental quality, zero carbon emission, carbon footprint reduction and firm experience. Four global leaders in sustainable architecture and design were then chosen to submit final proposals.

A global jury of seven world renowned design and urban planning experts chose AS+GG's design from the finalists. The jury consisted of:

• Hashim Sarkis Aga Khan Professor of Landscape, Architecture and Urbanism in Muslim Societies in the Department of Urban Planning & Design at Harvard's Graduate School of Design (Cambridge, MA)

• Dennis A. Andrejko Associate Professor at the University of Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning (Buffalo, NY)

• Greg Mella, AIA, LEED AP Principal at SmithGroup (Washington, D.C.)

• Jean-Marie Charpentier Architect for Maison Mozart (Paris)

• Dr. Hans-Rudolf Schalcher Professor at the Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction (Zurich), where he is also the Head of Technical Competence Center and Member of the Management Board; Chair of the Planning and Management in Construction for the Institute for Construction Engineering and Management at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (Zurich)

• John Quale Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia's School of Architecture (Charlottesville, VA)

• Volker Hartkopf Professor of Architecture at Carnegie Mellon University's Centre for Building Performance and Diagnostics, The Robert L. Preger Intelligent Workplace; Director at CBPD (Pittsburgh, PA)

Construction of Masdar City commenced with a formal ground-breaking ceremony on February 9, 2008. The City will be constructed over seven phases and is due to be completed by 2016. Masdar's headquarters is part of phase one and will be completed by the end of 2010.

CISCO Case Study: Energy Efficiency in Design and Construction

Innovative technology to conserve energy at its facilities enables Cisco’s San Jose headquarters campus to meet and often exceed California’s energy conservation standards – and helps maintain ISO14001 certification.

Cisco’s philosophy for new construction is to “plan it right,” which means thinking about energy efficiency during the design phase, before a building is actually constructed. This includes: investing in chilled water systems rather than more traditional package unit HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems; using energy-efficient interior lighting and low-pressure sodium exterior lighting instead of mercury vapor or halogen lighting; high-performance reflective glass that minimises energy loss and heat gain; integrating computerised building automation which adjusts things such as building temperature more quickly, efficiently and uniformly; and placing motion sensors in conference rooms, bathrooms and offices so that lights turn off automatically when not in use.

Effective planning requires improved collaboration between groups with different expertise. Mike Lavazza, Cisco manager for operations and engineering, says, “We used to have discrete facilities and maintenance groups, which is typical in most companies. Now, those groups operate together. We’ve combined people who specialise in the design side with people who have day-to-day working familiarity with the buildings to leverage each other’s knowledge.”

Cisco designed and built its San Jose, CA, headquarters to exceed California’s state Title 24 energy standards by 15 to 20%. By exceeding these standards, Cisco not only lowers costs and lessens environmental impacts, but also takes advantage of incentives offered by energy supplier Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Sheikh Nayeem, facilities engineer says, “At two of our headquarters sites, which include 4.9 million square feet of space in 25 buildings, we conserve an average of 49.5 million kilowatt-hours per year. We expect to save about USD4.5 million per year in operating costs. On top of that, those energy savings qualified us for USD5.7 million in PG&E rebates when construction was completed.”

The environmental benefits of Cisco’s energy conservation at its San Jose headquarters are measurable. “The 49.5 million kilowatt-hours per year that Site 4 and 5’s 25 buildings save could power 5,500 homes. Those facilities are also producing almost 50 million fewer pounds of carbon dioxide per year and 14,300 fewer pounds of nitrogen oxide. That’s the equivalent of removing 1,000 cars from the road.”

Designing and building environmentally sensitive, cost-efficient facilities benefits Cisco - but it’s only part of the conservation equation. For facilities to have a positive environmental and financial impact, constant monitoring and behavioural change is required. Nayeem adds, “It’s essential to communicate and coordinate with employees and business units to show them the value of conservation. We make it clear that conservation should not affect product quality or compromise business interests. Our message to employees is that it is good business to use energy efficiently.”

By reviewing energy use audits constantly, Cisco adapts conservation measures and building control systems to optimise energy use. The Energy Monitoring Committee (EMC) meets regularly to evaluate conservation programs and address energy use across the company—not just at the San Jose headquarters. Lavazza says, “Our success has a real grassroots appeal. For example, the EMC and our energy management Web site just emerged organically and are representative of the many little things that accumulate to make a big impact.”

Cisco continues to integrate new technologies into the design and construction of its facilities, as well as keep a close eye on the ongoing changes in the energy marketplace. Lavazza adds, “There are so many different facets to energy management that it’s tough to juggle all the balls at once. We’ve taken a proactive approach to meeting our goals by using new technologies and making sure that people are empowered to use them effectively.”

Programming computer monitors to shut down after 10 minutes of inactivity is one of the many measures Cisco has implemented to reduce energy use across the company. Because of these efforts, Cisco was recognised for its participation in the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Million Monitor Drive. The national campaign’s goal was to activate power management on one million computer monitors nationwide. By achieving this goal, the program saved more than USD15 million in energy costs, conserved 200 million kilowatt-hours, and prevented more than 150,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

LEED Gold for Torre HSBC

HSBC Mexico HQ recognised as greenest office building in Latin America.

HSBC has been awarded Latin America’s first-ever LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certificate for its headquarters building in Mexico. The accreditation, from the Mexico Green Building Council, concluded that the HSBC ‘Torre’ building has significantly outperformed in such areas as energy efficiency, potable water reduction, waste water technologies, waste management and use of environmentally friendly recycled furniture. Key features of the building include: a green roof to enhance biodiversity (Latin America’s largest), a water treatment plant, intelligent lighting systems and specially designed windows to keep the building cool.

Simon Martin, Head of Group Corporate Sustainability, HSBC, said, “Maximising the efficiency of our buildings is fundamental to sustainable business practice. We’re delighted to receive this award, which further illustrates our commitment to reduce HSBC’s environmental impacts.”

Ken Hydes, Chair, World Green Building Council, said, “The LEED Gold certification of the HSBC Tower in Mexico City represents a major milestone in the development of sustainable office buildings in Mexico and throughout the Latin America region.
The new US$150 million headquarters building in Mexico City, 'Torre HSBC', has been designed and built to benefit the local community economically and environmentally, and to reflect local heritage. The environmental initiatives applied to the new building have resulted in 55% less water usage and 40% less energy usage than comparable structures.

During construction, care was taken to avoid negative impacts on the environment, beginning with choosing a site which did not involve cutting down any trees or sacrificing any green areas. The local sewage lines were not damaged thanks to an erosion and sedimentation control system. Seventy-five percent of waste materials were recycled or reused as appropriate and the interior furniture in the building is made from recycled materials.

Reduction of carbon emissions was an important goal for the building and several supporting measures have been employed. Over 15% of the parking spaces are reserved for those who share vehicles and there are spaces for bicycles and shower and locker facilities for those who walk or cycle to work. These measures are designed to decrease travel carbon emissions as well as to encourage employees to think about their everyday impact on the environment. A green roof – the largest in Latin America – was installed to reduce heat absorption from the sun, thereby reducing carbon emissions as air conditioning requirements will be reduced.

Flat computer screens have been installed at all workstations, requiring significantly less energy than traditional monitors and producing less heat, thereby reducing the demands on the air conditioning system. There will be no use of CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) in the air conditioning and heating systems, avoiding damage to the ozone layer and creating a healthier atmosphere for the inhabitants of the buildings. In addition, the interior atmosphere was made as healthy as possible by avoiding paints or other materials that might release harmful toxins.

Around 75% of the occupied spaces in the building have natural illumination and the light levels are closely monitored by an intelligent system that adjusts artificial lighting as appropriate to reduce energy usage. The system will reduce carbon emissions by around 200 tonnes per year.

Water is one of the most essential and highly used resources in any building, and 'Torre HSBC' has many water-saving measures. Grey water (waste water from sinks and showers) and rain water will be collected, treated locally, and then reused in the building's air conditioning system, toilets, and landscaping. The water requirements are also reduced by low consumption toilets, waterless urinals and efficient irrigation.

HSBC has committed to spending some USD40 million to improve the environmental performance of its office buildings around the world. The funds form part of a USD90 million, five year, global environmental efficiency programme to reduce the Group’s broader impact on the environment. By 2011, the Group is seeking to achieve a minimum of LEED-Gold certification or equivalent in 50 of its major buildings. To date, HSBC has achieved certification in four of its buildings, including LEED-Gold certification for its zero carbon branch in the town of Greece, New York State.

The First LEED Platinum Hotel

Proximity named the highest rated “Green” hotel and restaurant in the US

The Proximity Hotel and Print Works Bistro, in Greensboro, North Carolina, which opened in late 2007, is a glowing example of the green economy at work: a project that blends sustainable design and luxury into one amazing business opportunity.

The sustainable standards set by the project are such that the hotel was awarded LEED® Platinum by the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED is the USGBC’s rating system for designing and constructing the world’s greenest, most energy efficient, and high performing buildings. Built and operated by Quaintance-Weaver Restaurants and Hotels, Proximity Hotel and Print Works Bistro, which opened in late 2007, are the first in the hospitality industry to obtain the USGBC’s top level of certification.

Dennis Quaintance, the CEO and CDO (chief design officer) of Quaintance-Weaver, is obviously delighted. “When we started the design process four years ago, I would have never believed that we could use 39 per cent less energy and 33 per cent less water without one iota of compromise in comfort or luxury and with minimal additional construction costs,” says Quaintance. “It just goes to show what a determined team can accomplish if they use common sense and get a little bit of help from the sun.”

His “sun” comment refers to the 100 solar rooftop panels that heat water for the AAA Four Diamond hotel. To illustrate how the hotel and bistro save energy without negatively affecting guest comfort, he asks, “How is it a compromise for a guest to shower with water that is heated by the sun? Or, how is it a compromise for a bistro guest if his or her dishes are washed with solar heated water?”

Quaintance collaborated with his subcontractors on every little detail and personally tested most products. “We tested so many different toilets at home that our children were anxious to see what they called the ‘commode du jour’,” he says. “We finally found one that works wonderfully and uses a third of a gallon less with each flush, and it did not cost one cent more than a conventional toilet.”

The rigorous testing for a variety of water saving products is paying off. The hotel and restaurant is on track to use two million gallons less water during the first year, saving more than USD13,000 by spending less than USD7,000 in additional construction costs.

“I've come to believe that it is an urban legend that employing sustainable practices with new construction is too expensive,” concludes Quaintance. “We are very happy with the results, including the costs and returns, of everything that we did. It’s not easy -- but it’s not hard. And it’s definitely worth it.”

Proximity and Print Works did not attain this milestone by just using less energy and water. They also:

Recycled 87 per cent of the construction debris (1,535 tonnes)
Sourced over 40 per cent of the building materials locally
Used over 20 per cent recycled content
Restored 700 feet of an adjacent stream
Installed the first regenerative drive elevators in North America, generating electricity on the descent for the ascent
Provided natural lighting (day-lighting) to 97 per cent of the occupied space
Used elaborate energy recovery systems to provide large amounts of fresh outside air to all guests
Sourced 90 per cent of the furniture locally
Commissioned local artists and craftspeople for original art in every guestroom, a cantilevered reception desk, spiral staircases in the lobby, furniture and accessories
Plus more than 60 other sustainable practices

LEED certification covers energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. LEED verifies environmental performance, occupant health and financial return. LEED was established for market leaders to design & construct buildings that protect and save precious resources while also making good economic sense.

“Proximity Hotel is especially to be commended for achieving LEED Platinum. This facility is one that both the community and its guests can be proud of,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO, Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “Proximity is a showcase for high-performance, energy-efficient, healthy environment, and an inspiration for others.”


Some of the top sustainable practices at Proximity Hotel & Print Works Bistro:

The building uses 39 per cent less energy than a conventional hotel/restaurant by using ultra efficient materials and the latest construction technology.

The sun’s energy heats hot water with 100 solar panels covering the 4,000 square feet of rooftop (enough hot water for a hundred homes). This heats around 60 per cent of the water for both the hotel and restaurant.

700 linear feet of stream was restored by reducing erosion, planting local, adaptable plant species and rebuilding the buffers and banks. Approximately 700 cubic yards of soil was removed to create a floodplain bench. And 376 tons of boulders and 18 logs were used to maintain grade control, dissipate energy and assist in the creation and maintenance of riffles and pools.

Tabletops in the Bistro are made of salvaged, solid walnut trees that came down through sickness or storm and room service trays made of Plyboo (bamboo plywood).

Newly-engineered variable speed hoods in the restaurant uses a series of sensors to set the power according to the kitchen's needs and adjusts to a lower level of operation (typically 25 per cent of their full capacity). The sensors also detect heat, smoke or other effluents and increase the fan speed to keep the air fresh.

Geothermal energy is used for the restaurant’s refrigeration equipment, instead of a standard water-cooled system, saving significant amounts of water.

North America's first Regenerative Drive model of the Otis' Gen2 elevator reduces net energy usage by capturing the system’s energy and feeds it back into the building’s internal electrical grid.

Abundant natural lighting, including large energy-efficient “operable” windows (7’4” square windows in guest rooms), connects guests to the outdoors by achieving a direct line of sight to the outdoor environment for more than 97 per cent of all regularly occupied spaces.

Building materials with recycled content include reinforced steel with 90 per cent post consumer recycled content, sheetrock 100 per cent, asphalt 25 per cent and staircase steel 50 per cent. Concrete contains 4 per cent fly ash (224,000 pounds), the mineral residue left after the combustion of coal that is diverted from landfills.

87 per cent of construction waste was recycled, diverting 1,535 tons of debris from landfills.

Water usage has been reduced by 33 per cent by installing high-efficiency Kohler plumbing fixtures, saving two million gallons of water the first year.

Air quality improved by circulating large amounts of outside air into guestrooms (60 cubic feet per minute) and doing so in an energy efficient way by employing “energy recovery” technology where the outside air is tempered by the air being exhausted.

Regional vendors and artists were used for materials to reduce transportation and packaging.

Low-emitting volatile organic compound (VOC) paints, adhesives, carpets, etc reduces indoor air contamination.

Guestroom shelving is made of walnut SkyBlend, particleboard made from 100 per cent post-industrial recycled wood pulp with no added formaldehyde.

A green, vegetated rooftop will be planted on the restaurant to reduce the “urban heat island effect.” In other words, the green roof reflects the heat, thus reducing the amount of energy needed for refrigeration and/or air conditioning. It also slows the rain runoff and insulates the rooftop, keeping the building cooler overall. Currently, we trying out various plants on the roof in a test area.

“Education Center” for sustainable practices includes tours of our "green" hotel for guests, sustainable practices symposia, and outreach programs for students of all ages.
Bicycles are available for guests to ride on the nearby five-mile greenway.

National Studies Show Green Building as Key Part of America’s Economic Future

Green Building Creates Green Jobs that Save Energy and Money

Even as the ominous financial news continued to dominate year-end headlines, a cascade of newly released studies and reports pointed to green building as one of the growing bright spots for the U.S. economy.

In fact, as economic experts call for a recovery plan focused on green jobs and infrastructure, as consumers look to live in more economically sustainable homes, as businesses strive to cut operating costs, and as our national security needs depend on an end to reliance on foreign energy sources, green buildings’ ability to deliver solutions to these pressing challenges promises to change the way we view the building industry.

“As research comes in from diverse sources examining the interest in green buildings among a wide range of Americans, the numbers keep painting the same picture: The future of our built environment clearly centres on energy efficiency, water reduction, systems that encourage cleaner indoor air, the use of recycled and more sustainably developed materials, and communities that coexist with their environments,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “Over and over again, Americans are saying the same thing: The key to a prosperous future is sustainability, and the triple bottom line – environmental responsibility, economic prosperity and social equity – is imperative as we move forward.”

According to Turner Construction Company’s “Green Building Barometer,” 75 per cent of commercial real estate executives – including developers, rental building owners, brokers, architects, engineers and others – say the credit crunch will not discourage them from building green. In fact, 83 per cent said they would be “extremely” or “very” likely to seek LEED certification for buildings they are planning to build within the next three years. The U.S. Green Building Council’s nationally recognised LEED® green building certification program provides third-party review and certification of buildings’ design, construction and performance in five key areas of environmental and health concern, including energy efficiency, water efficiency, materials and resources use, sustainable site development and indoor air quality.

Other key findings from this and other studies, conducted over the past year among constituencies ranging from consumers and homeowners to commercial real estate executives, include:

• 70 per cent of home buyers are more or much more inclined to buy a green home over a conventional home in a down housing market, according to McGraw-Hill Construction’s 2008 Smart Market Report, “The Green Home Consumer.”

• More than 80 per cent of commercial building owners have allocated funds to green initiatives in the year 2008, according to “2008 Green Survey: Existing Buildings,” a survey jointly funded by Incisive Media’s Real Estate Forum and GlobeSt.com, the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Some 45 per cent plan to increase sustainability investments in 2009.

• That same study showed that 60 per cent of commercial building owners offer education programs to assist tenants in implementing green programs in their space, up 49.4 per cent from last year, illustrating a growing understanding of the importance of environmental awareness among employees and customers in addition to the use of green materials and systems.

• LEED-certified projects are directly tied to more than USD10 billion of green materials, according to a Greener World Media study on green building. That could reach more than USD100 billion by 2020, contributing to a vibrant industry that could drive an economic recovery.

• The Centre for American Progress and the Political Economy Research Institute at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, in a September 2008 study, found that a national green economic recovery program investing USD100 billion over 10 years in six infrastructure areas would create 2 million new jobs. The investments would include retrofitting existing buildings to improve energy efficiency and investing in wind power, solar power and next-generation biofuels.

Incisive Media’s “2008 Green Survey: Existing Buildings” found that almost 70 per cent of commercial building owners have already implemented some kind of energy monitoring system. Energy conservation is the most widely implemented green program in commercial buildings, the survey found, followed by recycling and water conservation. Nearly 65 per cent of building owners who have implemented green buildings say their investments have already resulted in a positive return on investment. And 84 per cent of respondents to Turner’s “Green Building Barometer” said their green buildings have resulted in lower energy costs, with 68 per cent reporting lower overall operating costs.

Building and design professionals, product manufacturers and others getting involved in green building are establishing themselves as leaders in a rapidly growing industry, McGraw-Hill Construction’s Green Outlook 2009 report “Trends Driving Change” shows. By 2013, the overall green building market (both residential and non-residential) is likely to be more than double from today's statistics. Green building is estimated to be 10-12 per cent of the current market; McGraw-Hill predicts it will represent 20-25 per cent of new commercial and institutional construction starts by 2013. And it’s possible these predictions could be conservative: In 2005, McGraw-Hill predicted green building would make up just 5-10 per cent of the market in 2008.

Emirates Green Building Council

A New Road Map

The world has been watching in wonder at the construction boom in the UAE, especially the one in Dubai. It was a couple of years ago, Dubai’s credentials as the number one ‘boom city’ in the world was clearly established.

The most amazing aspect with any boom is the noise it generates; any voice of caution or reason gets lost in the din. As luck would have it, development gave way to unbridled growth – with developers paying scant attention to sustainable practices. The construction industry never had seen such good times, massive urban growth and a deluge of property launches announced every day.

A few individuals and organisations, who were genuinely concerned about this rapid growth in the construction sector, came together to form the Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC) in 2006, as a not-for-profit organisation. The council has been in pursuit of its goal of advancing green building principles for protecting the environment and ensuring sustainability in the United Arab Emirates.

On 7th August this year, board of directors of the EGBC unanimously elected Ali bin Towaih as the new chairman. Taking over from Dr Sadek Owainati, bin Towaih promises to drive his vision for sustainable and environmentally friendly development, and further enhance the EGBC’s push to achieve the highest level of sustainable built environment for the UAE.

In 2005, Ali bin Towaih was appointed as executive director of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Division (SEED) and Energy and Environment Park (ENPARK), a fully comprehensive eco-friendly community for commercial and residential use at TECOM Investments, a member of Dubai Holding.

“Three years back no one spoke about green buildings in Dubai. When we started EGBC, the immediate goal was to spread the word on the benefits of green buildings,” says, bin Towaih. “Our mission is to make people realise that we cannot afford to ignore sustainability in buildings.”

The sense of achievement bin Towaih shares with his fellow council members can’t be missed, when he says, “Look at what’s happening today, there is so much happening on green buildings: conferences, workshops and campaigns - you name it. The public awareness has definitely increased.”

The market has been quick to identify the potential of going green, believes bin Towaih. “I have been with the green building movement in the UAE since 2005. We have witnessed so much of development and the achievements are remarkable; without the market accepting the green values, we wouldn’t have made this big progress – the market needs to be lauded for its efforts.”

Ali bin Towaih explains why the market was quick to adopt the LEED rating system, “When we started green buildings in Tecom, we wanted a system which has a third party certification. Naturally we started to work with the LEED rating system as it was the only readily available system in the market, and one that is very flexible.”

Talking about the challenges faced by the green building sector in the UAE, bin Towaih says, “What we lack here is the know-how, the expertise in technology that can drive green buildings.” He believes that the real estate boom has been the major driver for new technologies and expertise coming into the market.

The EGBC has been pushing a sustained campaign on green buildings in the UAE. “We started to attract corporate interest in green buildings; new products and technology started to appear in the market.”

Once the market started to explore into the green buildings sector, the government was quick to support the movement – triggering the green building revolution in the UAE. Ali bin Towaih is proud of his country’s leadership in the green building domain, “We have seen the proactive role played by the Government in driving the development of green buildings industry in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi. In Dubai, it is His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE vice president, and prime minister and ruler of Dubai’s Green Building resolution of November 2007, which is part of Dubai Strategic 2015 plan. And in Abu Dhabi, the Government launched the Pearl building rating system, Estidama, in May 2008.”

Explaining on how the markets work elsewhere, where the industry waits for a system or a policy to be set by the government, bin Towaih believes UAE presents a different paradigm in addressing the challenges of climate change and global warming. “Here in the UAE, we have the opportunity to show, explain to the government of the many sustainable things we can do within the construction industry. It is an open market, totally different from other modern economies; if you can prove your sustainable claims – nothing stops you from doing well.”

That said, bin Towaih spells out in very clear terms, why green buildings are so important to the UAE, “We are not after technologies, we are trying hard to create a healthy environment. After all these buildings are for us, the people, who have to live and work in there. What we are striving for, is to benefit people and the community. Taking care of the welfare of the people is to take care of their infrastructure. I am sure others will follow.”

The overwhelming success in promoting green buildings in the UAE is obvious as bin Towaih exudes confidence, “The green buildings sector is booming in this country, we are attracting all the leading green technology players – they have identified the opportunity our country offers. Nowhere in the world would we find a country developing infrastructure at this massive scale and also attracting green technologies.”

Talking about the various green building rating systems available worldwide, bin Towaih says, “It doesn’t really matter which system a building adopts – as long as they achieve the green objectives. May it be LEED, BREEAM, Pearl rating (Estidama) in Abu Dhabi, the new rating system being developed by Dubai Municipality – they are all to guide developers in achieving green building standards. We at EGBC do not stand for one rating or the other; we support green buildings and sustainable development.”

When asked about the perception in the market that EGBC leans towards the LEED rating system, bin Towaih is very categorical in his response, “Let me place it on record, EGBC is not an associate of USGBC. We are a member of the World Green Building Council.”

“As I said before, LEED was the only readily available rating system in the market. It is only natural for LEED to take over a big chunk of the market share, simply because so many LEED consultants are available in the market.” He adds, “The know-how is the key point, it’s not about information, it’s about how to implement it. There are many LEED Accredited Professionals available locally, which is essentially driving LEED in the market. The media too has been promoting LEED.”

Talking about the EGBC’s main objective this year, bin Towaih says, “We need to align our members from the industry with local and federal Government initiatives. The partnership will be the council’s way of conducting business with its stakeholders in addition to its role in increasing public awareness.”

When asked about ISO 15392, the new sustainable development code, and the 31st ISO general assembly to be held in Dubai in October this year, bin Towaih explains, “The green buildings movement needs to sustain its momentum; all green building rating systems are supporting the movement. The ISO holding its general assembly in Dubai is really remarkable achievement for Dubai and the green buildings movement here. They have identified the potential of Dubai and the region. This is what exactly we at EGBC are also trying to promote... we would really be happy to cooperate with ISO.”

Ali bin Towaih is passionate about green buildings; he realises the overwhelming responsibility he carries as the chairman of EGBC. As an Emirati, he is proud of his heritage and has an intimate knowledge of the desert environment. He grew up in this environment and witnessed the changing landscape and the mind-boggling urban growth. Ali bin Towaih truly believes that sustainable development is a pre-requisite for any urban planning, and that United Arab Emirates can be a role model for the entire region and beyond.

The council is currently working on formulating a roadmap for 2008 – 2009, which has many initiatives and projects. EGBC intends to target the following industry players to help them in understanding ‘green buildings’ in depth:

• Building Product Suppliers & Manufacturers
  
• Building Developers, Occupants, and Real Estate Brokers
  
• Real Estate Financial Sector and Insurance Firms
  
• Professional Groups
  
• Design, Architectural, Engineering and Techno mechanical Firms
  
• Contractors
  
• Utility companies
  
• Universities and Technical Institutes
  
• Local Government Departments
  
• Federal Government Ministries
  
• Building Control Service Contractors and Manufacturers
  
• Facility Management Companies