Exploring challenges of adopting sustainability assessment methods in UAE - Perspectives of project professionals

Abstract

UAE's sustainable construction industry is expanding with increased interest in promoting green buildings while addressing global environmental concerns. However, it has been established that the effectiveness of implementing building environmental sustainability assessment methods varies significantly with several variables. While, a substantial body of literature has focused on the development of rating systems, less is known about the barriers and challenges of adopting the current assessment methods in the UAE; Pearl Building Rating (PBR) and Al Sa'fat systems. This paper addresses this gap through semi-structured interviews exploring the perspectives of 5 senior project professionals who acquired first-hand experience with the incorporation of sustainable construction practices in UAE. Based on the findings, adoption-enhancing suggestions such as project management software, awareness-raising strategies and government initiatives are recommended. This paper contributes to the growing literature on the adoption of energy assessment tools and specifically increases knowledge on current UAE sustainable development.