Qatar takes steps towards green building regulations

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The QTRT discussion in Doha called for the implementation of new green buildings regulations.

Qatar has taken tentative steps towards the implementation of green building regulations through the recommendation of a panel of industry experts.

The recommendations were made at the third meeting of the Qatar Today Round Table (QTRT), an expert discussion group hosted periodically in Doha to debate pertinent issues in a range of fields.

The debate, moderated by Qatar Foundation and Doha Lands Company development director Issa Al Mohannadi, saw a lively exchange of views concerning the effect of Qatar's construction boom on the natural environment.

Also taking part were Qatar Public Works Authority director of environment, health and safety Khalid Mohammed Al Emadi; HSBC head of global banking Kapil Chadda; and Philips Lighting business development manager Ashok Vishwanathan, among others.

"If we ask ourselves whether we have a sustainable industry, the answer is ‘no,' but it is encouraging to note that steps are being taken," Vishwanathan said.

Qatar has begun the implementation of its own Green Building Council, according to session moderator Al Mohannadi.

"Qatar Foundation and Doha Lands Company has been engaged in the last four to five months to launch the Green Building Council and are in the last stages of the construction of this council," he said.

"We encourage all contractors, designers and government institutions to come to this common stage and promote awareness of the need of such green building initiatives."

Both moves would see Qatar follow in the footsteps of the UAE by implementing regulations and advisory bodies to oversee construction activity from an environmental perspective.

There was no mention of a set timetable for implementation in Qatar, but the panel agreed there was an "urgent need" for regulations and for standards covering green buildings and infrastructure.

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