The Big 5 sets green standard

Designed to raise awareness, The Big 5 Technical Conference will bring together regional and international experts to present practical project case studies, United Arab Emirates green building compliance requirements and rating schemes, said Simon Mellor, Vice President Construction for organisers dmg world media.

The Big 5 takes exhibition takes place at Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre from 23-27 November 2008. It is the largest show for the construction sector in the Arabian Gulf and one of the world's largest trade shows for the construction industry and associated suppliers. The 2007 show featured more than 2,830 exhibiting companies from 53 countries and dmg media say there are already more than 3000 exhibiting companies for the 2008 show and they expect more than 50,000 visitors.

The Big 5 Technical Conference takes place at the Monarch Hotel in Dubai on Monday 24 November. The conference is in response to the introduction by the Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, of a green building directive underscoring Dubai's support for efforts to address global environmental challenges. The decree, the first of its kind in the region, focuses on responsible sustainable development in the UAE and advancing green building principles.

Compiled in conjunction with Ecospecifier International, The Big 5 Technical Conference will highlight the latest issues surrounding green building policy and best practices for technology design and product sourcing. A high level panel of speakers has been assembled including Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality, who will be addressing green building standards. Other topics include sustainable communities; district cooling; the design of carbon critical buildings; eco-profiling of buildings; sustainability assessments; and green architecture.

The conference is tailored for architects, engineers, developers, constructors, builders, building owners, investors, building and facilities managers, government agencies, sustainability consultants, interior designers, landscape architects and planned community designers.

Another green focus is The Big 5 Gaia Awards showcasing environmentally friendly products and services. Products and services exhibited at the Big 5 exhibition that reduce the impact on the environment are eligible for the awards and a judging panel, comprising senior individuals from local developers, contractors and government has been assembled with the support of Ecospecifier International. The awards will feature over 30 products and services.

The Big 5 organisers are also collaborating with experts from the British Safety Council for a programme of health and safety training workshops.

Alongside The Big 5 exhibition will be The Big 5 PMV - The Middle East's premier construction plant, machinery and vehicles at the same venue.