In the heart of the UAE’s booming construction sector, a pressing challenge looms: how to design out waste and pave the way for sustainable development. A recent study, led by Mahmoud Mawed from the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society at Heriot-Watt University in Dubai, delves into this very issue, offering insights that could reshape the industry’s approach to waste management and sustainability.
The UAE’s construction sector is one of the fastest-growing in the region, but with growth comes waste. Mawed’s research, published in the Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market and Complexity (known in English as “Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market and Complexity”), identifies the main culprits behind design-stage waste: complex projects, harsh climate, logistics deficiencies, and underutilization of advanced technology. “The drivers of waste are multifaceted,” Mawed explains, “but understanding them is the first step towards mitigation.”
The study, based on interviews with 14 construction professionals, reveals that recent strategies to combat waste include adhering to green building regulations, employing passive design techniques, and improving resource management. However, the research also highlights the untapped potential of emerging technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in predicting and mitigating design waste.
Despite their promise, these technologies are not yet widely adopted. Mawed attributes this to “insufficient knowledge, high costs, and a tendency to avoid change.” Yet, he sees opportunity in these challenges. “By bolstering stakeholder collaboration and governance frameworks, we can foster the adoption of sustainable design practices,” he asserts.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are significant. As construction projects become more sustainable, the demand for energy-efficient solutions is set to rise. This could open new avenues for energy providers, technology developers, and service providers alike.
Moreover, the study’s findings could shape future developments in the field. By proactively incorporating digital technologies and encouraging collaboration among stakeholders, the construction industry can minimize waste and advance sustainable practices. As Mawed puts it, “The future of sustainable construction in the UAE lies in our ability to innovate and adapt.”
In essence, this research is not just about identifying problems; it’s about paving the way for solutions. By understanding the drivers of waste and the barriers to technological adoption, the UAE’s construction sector can strive towards a more sustainable future. And as the industry evolves, so too will the opportunities for innovation and growth in the energy sector.