Carnegie Mellon University and industry leaders tackle sustainable building design in Qatar

The discussion focused on sustainable building design and challenges in Qatar and the region.

Professor Stephen R. Lee, architect and Head of the School of Architecture at Carnegie Mellon Pittsburgh, led the roundtable discussion. Joining in the discussion were fellow architecture professors Kelly Hutzell and Rami el Samahy, Assistant Professors in the School of Architecture.

"Sustainable building design is one of the most important areas for innovation in the region. I am honored to host so many leaders in this important area to discuss contemporary solutions for Qatar and the region. Carnegie Mellon University is at the forefront of this research globally and we are committed to continuing these knowledge sharing sessions with leaders in sustainable building design,"

said Lee, who is also speaking at the Middle East Qatar Green Buildings 2009 conference at the W Hotel.

The discussion highlighted the work of the School of Architecture's Center for Building Performance and Diagnostics, focusing on how sustainable design and practice can be made relevant and economical in the Gulf Region. During an informative two-hour session, roundtable participants discussed a wide-ranging set of contemporary environmental issues including sustainability principles, green design fundamentals and the practical challenges of sustainable building design in Qatar. Challenges include the high average temperature in Qatar and the low availability of water in Qatar, in addition to the impact of dust on buildings in the region.

Guests who took part in the roundtable included Eng. Issa M. Al Mohannadi, Projects Development Director at Doha Land Company; Abdul Rahman Jabir Jassim Sorour, Head of Urban Development Section at the Urban Planning and Development Authority; and Dr Muhammad Alsayrafi, representing Qatar Friends of the Environment as well as many distinguished guests. The participants agreed that these issues should be discussed on a regular basis and are committed to working together with student teams on the evaluation and technical assistance for current projects.

Chuck Thorpe, Ph.D., Dean of Carnegie Mellon Qatar, reinforced the importance of open discussions among academic, government and corporate leaders. "Education City is not an island. It has always been intended to have ties to the community. Conversations like ones at the Carnegie Club are central to the ethos of our university and to Education City. Carnegie Mellon believes discussing real problems and real issues is the best way to get our students excited about their education and engaged in their community."

The Carnegie Club hosts forums for in-depth discussion on relevant and significant business topics in Qatar and the wider region. Events are held eight times a year at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar's new building at Education City in Doha. Carnegie Club provides a forum for discussion that acts as a catalyst for Qatar's progress as a global business leader.