The Gulf region has been witnessing a massive boom in the construction and design sector, with high-rise buildings and expansive infrastructure development driving growth. However, this growth has come at a cost, with energy dependency playing a significant role in the region’s sustainability plans. According to key stakeholders in the construction and interior design industry, the region’s focus on high-rise buildings and infrastructure development has reversed the slowing down of the region’s goal to reverse the adverse effects of climate change. The massive energy consumption of these buildings, which account for nearly 80% of all energy produced in the UAE every year, adds another hole to the country’s sustainability plans. In addition to massive energy use, buildings and construction are responsible for 40% of total carbon emissions in the world, making it essential that these industries are focused on sustainability, especially as the region moves closer to its vision of achieving net zero-emission by 2050. The urgent need to redevelop

The Gulf region has been witnessing a massive boom in the construction and design sector, with the demand for high-rise buildings and infrastructure development driving growth. According to Tile of Spain, the official umbrella brand that represents the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association (ASCER), this boom calls for an urgent need to adopt sustainable practices within this industry, especially in the use of ceramics. • Using ceramics in building design can reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. • Ceramic tiles, bricks, and blocks can withstand extreme temperatures and resist heat up to 1,500 degrees Celsius. • Ceramic slabs and panels can help reduce carbon emissions by up to 154-229 Mt CO2-eq. Mott MacDonald conducted a study across the GCC region to explore how carbon emissions from buildings could be reduced. The research focused on the impact of adding insulation and external insulation finishing to improve energy consumption and significantly reduce carbon emission. “Remodeling and using sustainable building materials is an urgent cry of the hour, as global warming rates continue to rise. One of the most effective and sustainable building materials has always been ceramic, which is 100% natural and environmentally friendly. Ceramic tiles, bricks, and blocks can withstand the most adverse climate effects and can resist heat up to 1,500 degrees Celsius, making them suitable for use in ventilated facades. Ceramic slabs and panels can also help reduce carbon emissions by up to 154-229 Mt CO2-eq. This places bioclimatic architecture at the heart of sustainable design and construction,” said Mr. Vicente Nomdedeu, president and chairman, ASCER – Tile of Spain. Bioclimatic architecture: the absolute need for Gulf countries

Bioclimatic architecture focuses on designing and constructing buildings that take into account environmental conditions and use them to benefit building users. It promises to provide maximum comfort while using the least amount of resources, as climatic and environmental factors are taken into consideration to reduce cost by using environmental factors in favor. Tile of Spain, a pioneering brand, has taken on the task of promoting and establishing bioclimatic architecture around the world during this crucial hour, when the global climate is taking a massive hit. Main features of Bioclimatic architecture

The use of bioclimatic architecture in building design exposes the industry to numerous benefits, including:

• Saving energy

• Reducing air conditioner costs

• Improving health and wellness

“The Spanish ceramic tiles are developed using a technology that allows rainwater harvesting reuse as part of international certification in green building. In view of society’s increased awareness and sensitivity to living and working in healthier and more sustainable spaces, there is a growing demand for and supply of spaces with green building certifications. This makes ceramic tiles the go-to sustainable building and design solution for modern living and working spaces,” added Mr. Nomdedeu.

The Benefits of Using Ceramic in Building Design

Ceramic tiles, bricks, and blocks offer several benefits in building design, including:

• **Natural and Environmentally Friendly**: Ceramic is 100% natural and environmentally friendly, making it an attractive option for sustainable building design. • **Durability**: Ceramic tiles, bricks, and blocks can withstand extreme temperatures and resist heat up to 1,500 degrees Celsius. • **Low Maintenance**: Ceramic tiles and bricks require low maintenance, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.

The Importance of Bioclimatic Architecture

Bioclimatic architecture is a crucial aspect of sustainable design and construction. It focuses on designing and constructing buildings that take into account environmental conditions and use them to benefit building users. Some key benefits of bioclimatic architecture include:

• **Energy Efficiency**: Bioclimatic architecture can improve energy efficiency by using natural ventilation and shading to reduce cooling and heating needs. • **Cost Savings**: Bioclimatic architecture can reduce energy consumption and costs associated with air conditioning. • **Improved Health and Wellness**: Bioclimatic architecture can improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

The Role of Ceramic in Bioclimatic Architecture

Ceramic tiles, bricks, and blocks play a crucial role in bioclimatic architecture, offering several benefits, including:

• **Heat Resistance**: Ceramic tiles, bricks, and blocks can withstand extreme temperatures and resist heat up to 1,500 degrees Celsius. • **Natural Ventilation**: Ceramic tiles and bricks can provide natural ventilation and shading, reducing the need for air conditioning. • **Low Maintenance**: Ceramic tiles and bricks require low maintenance, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.

Conclusion

The Gulf region’s focus on high-rise buildings and infrastructure development has reversed the slowing down of the region’s goal to reverse the adverse effects of climate change. The urgent need to redevelop and adopt sustainable practices in the construction and design industry, especially in the use of ceramics, is essential. The use of bioclimatic architecture and ceramic in building design offers numerous benefits, including energy efficiency, cost savings, and improved health and wellness. As the region moves closer to its vision of achieving net zero-emission by 2050, it is essential that the construction and design industry prioritizes sustainability and adopts environmentally friendly building materials and designs.

References

• Mott MacDonald. (2020). Reducing Carbon Emissions from Buildings in the GCC Region. • ASCER – Tile of Spain. (2020). The Benefits of Ceramic in Building Design.