Omran supports Oman Green Buildings Center to promote environmentally friendly development principles in Oman

Launched under the patronage of H.E. Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Chairman of the General Authority for Civil Aviation, the OGBC, is a non-government, non-profit organization on a mission to promote and apply green building principles in Oman.

The OGBC is a chapter of the Oman Society of Engineers and aims to raise awareness on the importance of going green.

The center and its partners will contribute to green building governance as well as provide professional advice to other companies in the industry.

Eng. Wael bin Ahmed Al Lawati, Omran CEO, said, "From the onset, Omran chose to be the first company to partner and assist in establishing the OGBC due to our deeply rooted belief in working in harmony with the environment. We remain committed to continue to build projects to the highest internationally recognized standards, subjecting them to the voluntary, consensus-based programme, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) that provides third-party verification of green buildings. Omran has adopted a considered approach to construction ensuring that all our projects respect Oman's environment, wildlife and natural resources."

Al Lawati added, "Green buildings do much more than preserve our environment. It reduces operating costs and improves the life-cycle of economic performance. In addition, ecologically friendly buildings improve overall quality of life of communities around the establishments and minimize strain on local infrastructure as well as improve occupants' comfort and health."

Leading by example, Omran is currently building a number of projects to meet the aggressive LEED certification standards including the Oman Convention and Exhibitions Center, Khasab Hotel and Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort.

Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort's project site was the latest to achieve the requirements for LEED qualification through incorporating 'green' elements that promote recycling, reusing and reducing throughout its design.