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'As a master developer, Nakheel's work impacts on the physical, economic and social environments we operate in. We know that we can do better in certain areas and we have identified areas that need improving. Over the past six months, we have conducted a Sustainability Gap Analysis and now we are embarking on an ambitious sustainability agenda. The journey ahead has many steps and is a major challenge, but it is one which we know we must embark on.'
Nakheel, creators of major developments such as The Palm and The World, has been working with international consultancy the Sustainability Advisory Group, to review the sustainability of Nakheel's operation and projects to create a framework on which the organization will base future actions and create a culture of sustainability.
Chris O'Donnell, added 'In the past year Nakheel has recognised the need to improve business protocols, practices and policies to create a more sustainable organisation. As a key player in Dubai's transformation, we must rise above the status quo of our industry and pioneer the principles of sustainability.
'Throughout the organisation, our policies and performance are at different stages of this journey. Some have room for improvement and some are industry leading. For example we were the first company in the region to have its own in-house environmental department. We aim to adopt global standards and, where possible, to exceed them.'
Now that the Sustainability Advisory Group's baseline research has been completed, Nakheel is beginning to put their findings and recommendations into action. Some of the first steps include:
A commitment to developing sustainable communities for current and future generations.
This includes looking at a number of different areas, for example energy efficiency, waste management, provision of open spaces and ensuring developments are a mixture of work, live and play. Nakheel's Design Group has been established to ensure that developments are based on intelligent and innovative planning and have enduring value.
Continued membership of the Emirates Green Building Council and other suitable organisations with the aim of increasing local awareness.
A longer-term commitment to a partnership with the United Nations University following an original agreement in January 2007. The agreement on Marine Ecosystem Management sees the development of a comprehensive monitoring programme for the waters of the Arabian Gulf that will help maintain sustainable marine ecosystems.
Establishment of a Nakheel Sustainability Champions Forum to reward best practice across the organisation and encourage our employees towards a culture of sustainability.
Formation of a Nakheel Foundation to implement philanthropic, community and humanitarian actions.
Setting of new minimum standards on a number of key policy areas such as business integrity environment, health & safety and human rights. For example, the organisation is developing new accommodation for 60,000 workers in Dubai. This will be an upgraded facility with amenities such as dining halls, retail space and recreational facilities such as gyms, sportsfields and a library
The Sustainability Advisory Group is a multi-national team that brings together some of the world's leading experts in the field of social, environmental and economic sustainability. Led by Project Director Georgina Legoe, the team has extensive experience in corporate sustainability planning and management.
Its members have previously worked with companies such as The Body Shop International, Westfield, BP, Siemens and Toyota. The team also has extensive experience with global sustainability organizations including GRI (Global Reporting Initiative), SAM (Sustainability Asset Management) and DJSI (Dow Jones Sustainability Index), AccountAbility, and the OECD Panel on Sustainability.
Georgina Legoe, Director of the Sustainability Advisory Group, comments: 'It is easy to forget that Nakheel is a relatively young company and one that has experienced remarkable growth. Nakheel is already recognised as an ambitious and innovative company and now the company is turning its attention to building the foundations as a leader in sustainability. This will be a long process and we are delighted to be working with Nakheel in this goal. From the most senior levels, the company's commitment is obvious and genuine.'
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Posted by Lara Lynn Golden, News Editor
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