RECENT projects like Masdar City in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain’s Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, both in the UAE, have set the benchmark for future environmental construction standards in the region, requiring the use of sustainable sourced timber, minimised appliance of chemical treatment and the use of recycled materials, among other demands.

Hence, considering the overall environmental impact, the contractors of these projects have turned to suppliers with an environment-friendly product range. For both the projects, formwork and scaffolding specialist Peri was called upon to provide solutions as its principles and production promote sustainable construction in both ways, economically and ecologically, says a spokesman for the German company.

“The design and engineering team at Peri focuses on high efficiency and quality as well as full recyclability, which leads to minimised use of raw materials as well as a longer life  span of the products. In combination with an optimal handling, the financial benefits are clear,” he says.

For instance, Peri’s Skydeck slab formwork system is lightweight and makes costly and carbon dioxide-emitting machinery unnecessary, as it can be handled manually. Additionally, due to Peri’s remarkable plywood quality, a utilisation rate of up to 80 times before replacement can be reached – as has been experienced in the current Ras Al Hamra development project in Muscat, Oman, he points out.

Peri uses PEFC-certified wood from forests with replantation programmes.

The procurement of PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification)-certified wood from forests with replantation programmes for its plywood and heavy-duty girders and the substitution of harmful substances, like rapidly biodegradable oils in the Peri release agent, have been a company strategy for decades. Consequently, the environmental impact of Peri products is reduced significantly during production, life-time and when reaching the end of their useful lives.

Customer-oriented and intelligent logistics networks without redundancies also play an important role for a good ecological performance, says the spokesman.

“By having several strategically located central stockyards in Dubai (UAE), Kuwait and Qatar, Peri has shortened the transportation routes to its Middle East markets and likewise lowered frequencies for ferry shipments due to the high availability of the products. Less delivery time plus larger delivery volumes guarantees both, a faster and cheaper transport for the customers and a much better environmental record,” he says.

The spokesman stresses the need to take a holistic approach when considering sustainability in construction works. With globally changing mindsets and stricter environmental regulations, the ecological footprint of contractors becomes an important factor for successful tendering, he adds.

“Tackling the environmental problems arising from construction works requires a more holistic perspective than just focusing on reducing waste or emissions at the site. Hence, the service provision of suppliers and sub-contractors has to be taken into consideration,” the spokesman concludes.