Opening in 2011, the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) is the first convention and exhibition centre of its kind being built to the premium standard of the prestigious Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System.
The 177,000 m2(1,905,000 ft2) facility is going for gold rating. As the world’s trailblazing green convention centre, it will have state-of-the-art systems for water savings, energy efficiency and indoor environment quality.
The LEED System is an internationally recognised benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
“From design stage, we placed a great deal of importance on sustainability,” said QNCC General Manager Paul D’Arcy. “It is a key issue in the industry and we are committed to ensuring sustainability targets are met,” he added.
The Centre has combined cutting edge design, functionality and sustainability to meet the complex needs of meeting planners, exhibitors and attendees. Its world first features include:
- 3,676 m2 (39,570 ft2) of solar panels to produce 12.5 percent of the building’s total energy requirements
- Wireless conference management system
- Minimum 108 inch LCD screens in all meeting rooms
- Full colour LED lighting in the exhibition halls (no metal halide)
- 100% fibre optic connections for all service pits
Qatar is quickly earning a sterling reputation in environmental sustainability. Qatar Airways is set to become the world’s first commercial airline to fly aircraft powered by natural gas. Energy City Qatar, the Gulf region’s first integrated business and residential hub for the hydrocarbon industry, is being developed along an all-green design. The eco city’s innovative green building features will make it the first fully LEED concept project. Meanwhile, in Education City, a US$500million solar power plant is expected to be completed within two years.
No doubt Qatar is taking future environmental concerns seriously. And as organisations seek to become more eco-aware, this strong commitment will further enhance Qatar’s appeal to the business community.
