Abu Dhabi City Municipality has unveiled details of the Estidama Pearl Rating System, which assesses the sustainability of buildings on a scale of one to five pearls. Under the new requirements, public projects must achieve a minimum of two pearls, while private projects must achieve one. Meeting these standards is a prerequisite for building permits. This is reported by
Emirates News Agency (WAM), a partner of TV BRICS.
According to the municipality’s Sustainable Construction Division, since the beginning of the year, 304 projects in the design phase and 81 projects in the construction phase have met Estidama standards in Abu Dhabi and its suburbs.
The Estidama system includes both mandatory and optional criteria, the fulfilment of which allows for points to be scored and a project’s rating to be upgraded. The main scoring categories cover integrated development systems, natural resources, indoor and outdoor quality of life, and efficient use of water, energy and building materials.
For example, the quality of life category focuses on improving indoor air quality and creating a comfortable environment in outdoor areas such as car parks and pedestrian areas.
The compliance review process begins with an analysis of the project concept to determine the best approaches for implementing sustainability standards. The department’s experts also check material specifications and design solutions to ensure they meet environmental requirements before construction begins.
The implementation of the Estidama Rating System is already showing positive results: the life of buildings is increased, operating costs are reduced, occupant comfort is improved and environmental impact is minimised. This is particularly important given that the construction sector is responsible for 40 per cent of annual greenhouse gas emissions. The system also contributes to a significant reduction in water and energy consumption.
Abu Dhabi Municipality emphasises that the Estidama Pearl System plays a key role in achieving the city’s sustainable development goals. Many projects are already using it to integrate environmental principles, helping to make Abu Dhabi a leader in sustainable building.
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