Organisation to Meet Global Benchmarks in Sustainable Development

DUBAI:  17 September, 2006 - In a move that pioneers sustainable development practices in the UAE's corporate sector, the Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) today announced that all of its buildings will be built to meet global environmental benchmarks.

The first free zone in the region to adopt such a policy, DuBiotech will develop buildings that meet standards of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), the leading rating system for 'green buildings'.

Dr. Abdulqader Al Khayat, Executive Director of DuBiotech said: "Across the world, corporate organizations are waking up to the need to build more sustainable businesses. It is important that we commit to practices that ensure our infrastructure is environmentally sound. The adoption of such policies is essential to secure our long-term economic development," he added.

According to its new 'green' policy, the entire DuBiotech complex including its headquarters, laboratory buildings and pre-built units will be constructed according to international guidelines of sustainable development. The buildings will be efficient in the use of energy, water, and materials and have a high-quality indoor environment.

The heating and cooling systems, lighting and appliances in the buildings will be highly energy efficient. Air conditioning tonnage will be reduced with floor a/c and solar shading. The buildings will also incorporate water-efficient technology.

DuBiotech buildings will undergo the LEED certification process, which will involve evaluation of diverse criteria including energy and water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, sustainable sites and materials and resources. Once certified, DuBiotech's 600,000 sq ft headquarter complex will be one of the largest 'green' buildings in the world.

The adoption of 'green' practices will bring considerable cost and operational benefits for DuBiotech. A comfortable and healthy environment will help boost employee productivity. Increased energy and water-efficiency will reduce operating costs.

The Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park was announced in February 2005 to create an advanced technical and community infrastructure to accelerate the growth of the life sciences industry in the region.

Established under TECOM Investments, DuBiotech's facilities will be built in phases on a 200 hectare area close to Dubailand. Infrastructure work has begun and is scheduled for completion by mid 2007.

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For further information, please call:
Zeba Ahmad
Associate Account Manager
JIWIN
The Public Relations Arm of Dubai Press Club
T:+9714 361 3 333
F:+9714 368 8 001
Zeba.ahmad@jiwin.ae

© Press Release 2006