The measure of a sustainable building lies not in efficiency alone, but in the health it bestows

The Zayed International Foundation for the Environment convenes leading experts to reframe how we assess sustainability, placing human wellbeing at the heart of urban design.

A specialised seminar organised by the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment has crystallised a subtle but profound shift in how sustainability is understood: the true worth of a building lies not merely in how much energy it consumes, but in the quality of the environment it creates for those within it.

Bringing together leading experts and professionals from ASHRAE Falcon Chapter UAE and Curtin University Dubai, the gathering explored how Indoor Environmental Quality has become fundamental to sustainable development. The theme, Advancing Indoor Environmental Quality in Accordance with American Standards, reflected a growing recognition that human health and environmental stewardship are inseparable.

Mohammed Ahmed bin Fahad, Chairman of the Higher Committee of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, emphasised this reframing in his opening remarks. Sustainable buildings can no longer be assessed solely on the basis of energy efficiency, he noted. Instead, their true value lies in their capacity to provide healthy and safe environments that enhance human wellbeing whilst preserving natural resources. This integration of Indoor Environmental Quality with smart technologies and low-carbon solutions, he stressed, is essential for advancing sustainable development goals and addressing the impacts of climate change.

Hassan Ali Younes, former President of the ASHRAE Falcon Chapter, presented Indoor Environmental Quality as an integrated framework encompassing indoor air quality, thermal comfort, lighting, acoustics, water quality and humidity management. Recent studies demonstrate a direct relationship between indoor environmental conditions and levels of performance, health and wellbeing. The Gulf region presents particular challenges: high temperatures, humidity and sandstorms demand careful balancing of ventilation requirements with energy efficiency through advanced air filtration and treatment systems capable of maintaining healthy indoor environments without increasing operational costs.

Mohammed Faisal, speaking as Young Engineers in ASHRAE Chair and an accredited ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer, highlighted the importance of indoor air quality and the need to reconcile energy efficiency with occupant health. He reviewed advanced ventilation and filtration strategies, and the application of modern ASHRAE standards to reduce airborne disease transmission. The Healthy Classrooms Initiative and the growing role of artificial intelligence driven monitoring systems in providing cleaner indoor air emerged as critical tools for improving student health and productivity whilst supporting building decarbonisation.

Mohammed Shamroukh, an ASHRAE regional lecturer, discussed the transition towards smart and sustainable buildings, explaining how sensors, advanced control systems and data analytics enable continuous verification of actual building performance rather than relying on design-stage assumptions. The success of such solutions depends not only on technology but on the availability of accurate data and effective operational frameworks that enable informed decision-making and continuous environmental and health improvement.

The seminar concluded that Indoor Environmental Quality has become a key indicator of sustainability and a measure of a building’s ability to serve people effectively. Participants called for stronger collaboration among academic institutions, professional associations, government entities and the private sector to advance best practices and develop healthier, more sustainable cities capable of addressing future challenges. Dr. Hamdan Al Shaer, Vice Chairman of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness, fostering scientific dialogue and building strategic partnerships that support sustainable development and reinforce a culture of sustainability and quality of life across society.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

This reorientation of sustainability standards reflects Abu Dhabi’s deeper understanding of environmental stewardship. As the emirate continues to expand its built environment and refine its approach to development, the emphasis on Indoor Environmental Quality signals a commitment to ensuring that growth serves human flourishing. The integration of smart technologies and rigorous standards across the Emirates’ building stock will enhance the health and productivity of residents and workers alike, whilst supporting the nation’s climate goals.

The Zayed International Foundation’s work in this field carries forward the legacy of environmental leadership that has defined the UAE’s approach to development. By fostering scientific dialogue and collaboration across institutions, the Foundation strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre for innovation in sustainable building practices and climate-responsive design.

Source: WAM