Latest news with #sustainable construction
Times of Oman
23-07-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
SQU student team develops eco-friendly bricks for sustainable construction
Muscat: A student team from Sultan Qaboos University has developed an eco-friendly brick named Envibrick. Made entirely from local natural materials, this innovation is a promising and sustainable alternative to traditional bricks. It contributes effectively to reducing carbon emissions in the construction sector, aligning with Oman's unique environmental requirements and marking a pioneering step toward a future of sustainable building. Envibrick possesses exceptional properties that make it ideal for Oman's hot and humid climate. It is lightweight, salt-resistant, and offers very high thermal insulation, which significantly reduces energy consumption in buildings and creates a more comfortable indoor environment. The brick also has an insect-repellent property, adding a health and environmental dimension to buildings. Furthermore, its low production cost makes it an excellent economic choice compared to imported alternatives. Halima Khamis Al Fajrani, CEO of Envibrick, explained that the team underwent a meticulous research and development journey. This began with extensive product testing in university labs using specialized equipment, with comprehensive documentation of the results through videos and photos. She noted that the main challenge was the brick's weight. The team adjusted the component ratios, replacing heavy materials with lighter ones without compromising quality. Some of the alternatives even demonstrated higher-than-expected performance. Al Fajrani confirmed that work is ongoing to finalize the product's composition in preparation for obtaining a patent. She added that the company plans to use 3D printing technology in the next phase, after the final mixture is approved, to produce precise models that meet the latest needs of modern construction. The Envibrick project has achieved notable accomplishments, including winning the Best Marketing and Promotional Idea award at the Sultan Qaboos University Scientific Festival. The company was also ranked among the top three student industrial companies, reflecting the promising potential of this innovation. The Envibrick team aims to expand into the Gulf market, leveraging the growing interest in sustainable building materials in the region. This step is fully aligned with the priorities of Oman Vision 2040 in the areas of sustainability and innovation, thereby reinforcing Oman's position as a regional center for environmental innovation.
Zawya
14-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
NBK becomes a Platinum member of Kuwait Green Building Council
NBK is committed to promoting sustainable development by incorporating sustainable practices in the construction field. This partnership reflects a joint vision that strives to build a sustainable future for Kuwait. In an unprecedented step towards enhancing its sustainable efforts and responsible environmental practices, National Bank of Kuwait signed an agreement with the Kuwait Green Building Council (KGBC) by the which it has become a Platinum member and the first bank in Kuwait to join the council. NBK is the only bank to have obtained the LEED Gold Certification for its headquarters, mirroring its dedication to adopting the highest sustainability standards in the design and construction of its facilities. This agreement aims to enhance collaborations between NBK and KGBC to shape a sustainable future for Kuwait. The agreement will involve the bank's active participation in the council's programs, campaigns, initiatives, and the sharing of its expertise in this field. Under this agreement, NBK can benefit from a variety of programs, including specialized training, workshops, and seminars that have been tailored to enhance the knowledge of KGBC members in green buildings and sustainable construction practices, keep them updated with the field latest development, and provide them with technical consultations that help them understand and apply green standards and practices. Moreover, council members can attend all NBK's activities, including conferences, seminars, and panel discussions, which presents a remarkable opportunity for field enthusiasts to communicate and exchange ideas. In this light, NBK is organizing an exclusive tour for approximately 30 visitors from KGBC at its LEED Gold certified headquarters to explore the features of the building's sustainable design and energy-saving operations in addition to its environmental responsibility as per world green building standards. NBK constantly supports sustainable development and promotes green practices in the construction field aimed at conserving natural resources, as it firmly believes that green buildings play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable and safe future for Kuwait. As a responsible and sustainable financial institution, NBK strives to make positive impact that reflects its continuous efforts during the past years in promoting all sustainable practices and supporting Kuwait's low-carbon emissions agenda. Additionally, NBK continues to work hand in hand with its strategic partners to develop and execute sustainable projects that aim to make real and tangible changes, as well as participate in several purposeful initiatives to raise awareness about the significance of green buildings. The Kuwait Green Building Council was established as a non-profit, non-governmental entity in 2017. As a membership-based organization, KGBC aims to encourage and promote sustainable development in Kuwait, and it's a member of a global network of more than 75 green building councils operating under the umbrella of the World Green Building Council. It is worth noting that NBK has always been the first to take the initiative and support all green projects aimed at enhancing sustainability efforts. It has also made significant strides in the field of environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG), making sustainability a fundamental pillar in all its business operations and corporate culture, which enhances the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy in line with Kuwait's strategic agenda.
