TECOM launches Sustainable Development Policy

The policy has been designed to align all of TECOM's operations to global standards of sustainable development.

Announcing the policy, Abdullatif Al Mulla, CEO of TECOM Investments said the initiative forms part of Dubai's larger vision for sustainable development.

"Conforming to superior business standards and supporting the society that we live in is part of TECOM's culture. As a leader in the region's knowledge industry sector, we recognize our responsibility to the community and to the environment. This is a policy that our employees and business partners can be proud of."

Led by Ali Bin Towaih, Director for TECOM's new Renewable Energy Division, the unique initiative will be responsible for 'green' buildings, energy and water conservation and management, value-added real estate and 'green' power generation.

Promoting environment-friendly practices will be a key part of TECOM's 'green' strategy.

Al Mulla added: "As corporate citizens, we are responsible for utilising our existing energy and water resources in the most efficient manner. Sustainable development promotes the use of resources to meet our needs without depriving the needs of future generations."

TECOM intends to set an example for other Dubai-based organisations in developing sustainable development practices. It will create an in-house team of experts in 'Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design' (LEED®), the world's premier certification programme for sustainable buildings. The team will be responsible for supporting all projects of TECOM with energy and water conservation expertise.

With immediate effect, TECOM will construct all new buildings as 'green' buildings' that meet LEED® standards. Existing TECOM buildings will be certified as 'green' buildings' over a period of time. TECOM will act to reduce energy and water consumption in both its existing and new facilities.

Part of TECOM's energy needs will be serviced through 'green' power sources like solar energy, while its procurement policy will be amended to procure energy efficient office equipment.

In addition to implementing the policy, TECOM will work to raise awareness of sustainable development standards and practices both among its staff and the larger community. To start with, it will conduct a campaign among its staff to integrate social and environmental awareness into their roles and responsibilities.