CIBSE steps up sustainable transformations in the Middle East

Celebrating its 125th anniversary, CIBSE outlined its regional priorities, which include sustainability, the advancement of best engineering practices, research and education, and honouring outstanding professionals

The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), a global network of building services professionals, outlined its objectives in the Middle East as it celebrated 125 years of being one of the highest authorities in the domain. Sustainable transformation, within the context of buildings’ efficiency and ecological footprint, will be the cornerstone of our efforts and endeavour in the Middle East, CIBSE announced. 

Since its inception in 1897, CIBSE has advanced best scientific practices in building services engineering, by investing in education and research, fostering a community of like-minded individuals, and providing networking opportunities for effective knowledge flows on a global scale. In recent years, CIBSE has firmly positioned itself at the intersection of the built environment, technology, and sustainability, to reconcile the industry with emerging priorities.

“CIBSE members represent the crème de la crème of the global building services engineering. The long-serving professional association has remained a beacon of excellence throughout the building services industry’s vicissitudes. In the Middle East, where the need for best-in-class services and engineering practices has been pronounced in the last couple of decades, CIBSE’s region-specific road map for sustainable transformation will be consequential,” said Farah Naz, the Chair of CIBSE's UAE Chapter.

Following its official launch in Dubai in 2016, CIBSE has emphasized community-building initiatives through its esteemed subcommittees such as the Society of Public Health Engineers (SoPHE), the Society of Light and Lighting (SLL), Young Engineers' Network (YEN), and Women in Building Services Engineering (WiBSE). In 2021, CIBSE released two reports outlining the minimum design guidelines for mechanical and electrical services in the UAE and the KSA. 

The reports particularly touched upon design considerations, practices and technologies that can increase efficiencies in building services, optimize energy usage, and empower engineers to pursue net-zero goals. CIBSE’s emphasis on sustainability and net-zero emissions stems from a well-substantiated argument that buildings account for almost 50% of global GHG emissions. In response, association members have undertaken redressal actions in their respective markets worldwide. 

“CIBSE is essentially mobilizing building services stakeholders and aligning them on a path leading to a future where built environments will characterize sustainability, green energy, data-driven operations, and high liveability. CIBSE, with its industry pedigree and global reputation, is well positioned to orchestrate the magnitude of multistakeholder participation required to achieve this feat. The upcoming CIBSE UAE Annual Awards is a perfect avenue to recognize exemplary professionals and encourage greater participation,” Kevin Mitchell, CIBSE President, added.