According to Amac News: Abu Dhabi Municipality has said that government-funded projects are required to obtain at least two pearls, while private projects must obtain at least one pearl. Compliance with these requirements is necessary to obtain a building permit.
The EStidama Pearl rating system is an assessment tool that rates buildings based on adherence to sustainability requirements from one to five pearls, the government department said.
Abu Dhabi Municipality's Sustainable Buildings Department has reported that since the beginning of the year, 304 projects in the design phase and 81 projects in the construction phase follow Estidama sustainability standards.
This section has emphasized that the Estidama system includes mandatory and optional credits. By completing optional credits, projects can earn points that can increase their overall sustainability rating.
The Estidama system includes several main credit categories with numerous subcategories. These categories include integrated development systems, natural systems, indoor and outdoor livability, water, energy, and building materials.
For example, in the "indoor and outdoor livability" section, the focus is on ensuring indoor air quality and adequate shade in outdoor spaces such as parking areas and sidewalks.
The Department of Sustainable Buildings has outlined the process for verifying compliance with the requirements. The department's team begins by reviewing preliminary project concept designs to gather information and understand the specific context of the project.
This step helps them determine the best approach to applying sustainability standards and guides the project in selecting appropriate credit options.
Also, many stakeholders are involved in the implementation of the Estidama Pearl Rating System, which includes property owners, consultants and Pearl Qualified Professionals (PQP).
These professionals are trained and assessed to effectively apply the system requirements and are responsible for submitting applications for Estidama compliance.
The Department of Sustainable Buildings has pointed out the positive impact of implementing the Pearl Rating System and explained that this system increases the lifespan of buildings, reduces operating costs and improves the comfort of residents.
Also, this system contributes to a significant reduction in water and energy consumption compared to projects that did not use this system.
The Abu Dhabi Municipality has introduced the Estidama pearl rating system as a key factor in ensuring the sustainability of the Abu Dhabi building sector. Development projects utilize this system to integrate sustainability principles into their designs, contributing to Abu Dhabi's goal of becoming a leading sustainable city.
With expertise in implementing the Estidama Pearl Rating System, the Sustainable Buildings Department at Abu Dhabi Municipality helps promote green building principles and enhance residents' comfort.
This department actively encourages project teams to strive for a rating higher than at least one pearl and helps to select sustainable materials for each project by providing the necessary guidance and support.