With a construction industry that accounts for 68% of energy consumption, Abu Dhabi has set its sights on energy efficient construction. The government of Abu Dhabi has introduced an initiative, Estidama 2030, which will establish local and regional standards for energy efficient construction. Estidama is the Arabic word for “sustainability” and the budding initiative, although still in the planning phase, includes the strict Estidama New Building (ENB) guidelines for construction projects, aiming at a 30% reduction in the city’s energy and water consumption. Dar Al-Estidama is a private company providing consultation on the Estidama 2030 initiative. According to the company’s website, Dar Al-Estidama is particularly interested in “reducing CO2 emissions, construction and demolition waste and indoor air pollution.” General Manager Kai Schlenther described Dar Al-Estidama’s task as “caring for sustainability in buildings and concentrating on environmental issues inside [buildings].” He explained that proper insulation can reduce energy use up to
