The idea of sustainability in architecture has long been associated with green building codes and certifications. Fulfilling a rudimentary checklist of environmentally friendly practices has become the benchmark for conscious planning. But this brings us to the existential question of what truly is sustainable design. Is it a mere attainment of recognition or is it about building in oneness with nature?  
 
Answering this query, Andrew Jackson, Business Development Director from Shaw Group’s EMEA region says,  
 
“Sustainability is not a checklist. It’s about people and the planet. So, we’ve divided our goals across these two headers. Under the objective of people - material health, diversity, equity and inclusion are our key goals. For achieving the planet objective, circular economy and reducing carbon impact are the top ambitions.”  
 
Their approach highlights the importance of viewing sustainability as an integral element of design and user experience.  

The way we approach sustainability in design needs a shift. This change can only be achieved when we draw more attention to the subject by reaching out to a larger audience. Awareness campaigns can enhance knowledge about reducing energy consumption, lowering emissions, and conserving natural resources. This can help bridge the gap between greenwashing and sustainable architecture. 
 
 “The built environment is a significant contributor to climate change. In 2019, the building construction and infrastructure sector contributed about 28% of the UAE’s greenhouse emissions. But, if we resort to thoughtful green building practices, we can also be a part of the solution and reduce up to 81% of these carbon emissions by 2030,” affirms Lana I. Abu Qulbain, Technical Engineer, EGBC. 
 
Adding to this, Tekha Selim, Executive Vice President, Delos & Head of MENA Region, IWBI mentions, “We aim to continue participating in conferences, panels, and seminars - reaching out to clients, developers, governments, and other individual stakeholders in the built environment for creating more awareness. We’ll also continue researching and learning from case studies to bring a sense of practicality to our sustainability agenda.” 

Sustainability is a catalyst for achieving better quality indoor spaces that improve human health. For instance, incorporating lights that sync with the circadian rhythm, non-toxic materials, and proper ventilation mechanisms can help avoid the sick building syndrome.  
 
Expanding on the idea, Tekha says, “Buildings are impacting our health and well-being. And, once you get this message out there, it becomes easier to prove it with science and research. Whether it is the air quality, water quality, or design policies- occupant wellness should be the topmost priority.” 
 
He adds, “One of the reasons why WELL has done so well over the past 10 years is because, during the pandemic, they came out with the health and safety rating. They introduced a WELL certificate for people occupying public spaces and later brought another one for health and safety. Now, they are also launching one for equities, thus making it a people-centric building code.” 
 
Drew Thomson, the Sales Manager at Metre Squared says, “Alongside design, equity is a major parameter for our workplace strategy. Our talent hails from different countries, genders, and nationalities, but there’s a lot of inclusion and team bonding that helps maintain a positive work culture. This in turn contributes to improved employee health.”