FUTURE PROOFING
adoption of sustainable construction techniques critical to meeting future climate objectives .
Key trends shaping GCC construction sustainability in 2025
1 . Carbon emission reductions and green building practices : The focus on green building materials and designs is intensifying in the GCC , with a significant emphasis on reducing carbon emissions . The World Green Building Council reports that energyefficient construction techniques can lower the lifecycle carbon emissions of buildings by up to 60 %. In the UAE and Saudi Arabia , renewable energy systems such as solar panels , wind energy and energy-efficient HVAC systems are increasingly common in construction . Green financing is also becoming a vital tool for developers seeking to fund sustainable projects and minimise environmental impacts .
2 . Circular economy and waste reduction : The circular economy model , which focuses on reusing , recycling and repurposing materials , is gaining traction in the GCC construction industry . As cities grow rapidly , minimising waste through circular principles is essential . Projects like Saudi Arabia ’ s NEOM and the UAE ’ s Masdar City demonstrate the application of circular economy principles , focusing on resource efficiency , waste reduction and sustainable energy use . Prefabrication , a technique where components are manufactured off-site , is being employed to reduce waste and improve efficiency . The increased focus on recycling and reusing construction materials further supports waste management goals .
3 . Smart technologies and BIM ( Building Information Modelling ): Smart technologies are revolutionising construction in the GCC . BIM allows for better collaboration , improved project visualisation and more efficient project management . In the UAE , AIdriven smart grids and energy management systems are optimising construction and reducing energy consumption . Saudi Arabia ’ s NEOM project , which integrates AI and IoT technologies , aims to create a fully connected and sustainable urban ecosystem . The use of drones and sensors for monitoring construction progress and assessing material waste is also becoming more common ,
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