GASCO Journey towards Sustainability in Civil Projects
Authors: Thirugnanam N , Adel Khalid , Al Awadhi Ibrahim 
Published: November 2016

Simple definition of Sustainability is "something that improves the quality of human life while living within the carrying capacity of supporting eco-systems". GASCO placed sustainability as topmost agenda and keen in minimizing environmental footprint. While the buildings consume 48% of energy, it is a Corporate Social Responsibility to focus on Sustainable and Energy Efficient Buildings. This paper addresses GASCO's journey towards Sustainability, from drafting "Guidelines for Green Buildings in GASCO" to its implementation in many buildings and to win 1st LEED GOLD certification in an ADNOC project and subsequent ESTIDAMA Pearls certifications.

In basic engineering stage, options for different LEED/ESTIDAMA ratings are studied and techno-commercial comparison tables prepared to conduct life cycle cost (LCC) analysis to evaluate and compare various design options. Attention is given for choice of construction type, location/orientation, materials, daylight / sunlight use, water recycling, energy conservation / renewable energy, traffic management and all other LEED/ ESTIDAMA requirements for achieving appropriate rating. Energy model for the proposed building(s) using approved dynamic simulation modelling software is prepared to calculate the baseline energy consumption and savings. Results, Observations, Conclusions: In 2009 when the international building sustainability rating systems were in budding stage, GASCO studied the prevailing Green Building & Sustainable aspects and prepared a document "Guidelines for Green Buildings in Gasco", tailored to suit buildings in an oil/ gas industry. This has won ADNOC HSE Award 2009 under Sustainability category and still forms the basis for building projects following Green aspects.

The LEED - Gold Certified New Administration Building proved efficient with savings in 47% potable water and 60% irrigation water and 14% Energy. 61% certified wood used in the building helped against deforestation, 100% VOC-free materials improved indoor air quality and 21% materials manufactured within 500 miles helped reducing the cost of logistics. A study to convert an existing office building as Green Building indicated a savings of 26% water and 30% energy, promoted 81% recycling of general waste and reduced 362 tons of carbon-emission annually. A new management office building also obtained ESTIDAMA Pearl 2 rating. Many non-process buildings are in FEED/ EPC stages targeting the LEED/ ESTIDAMA Certifications. Energy and water are valuable resources in the desert climate of UAE, so having efficient buildings is another way to protect the ecology and reduce operational costs.

Contrary to the popular notion, Green Buildings cost only about 2% more compared to conventional buildings. Unlike hotels or apartments, GASCO finds its way to spearhead its corporate message of Sustainability in constructing Green Buildings in an industrial environment. With about a dozen of projects/ buildings aimed for the Green Building Certification, GASCO is pioneering the task of protecting the environment for future generations.