- The Dubai Metro “route 2020” extension will become the largest LEED Gold transit project in the world when the remaining four stations are certified
ACCIONA has obtained the highest global qualification for sustainability in construction for three stations on the Dubai Metro “Route 2020” extension. Certification is expected soon for the remaining four stations along the route, which will make the Dubai Metro extension the largest Gold LEED certified transit project in the world.
ACCIONA’s commitment to sustainability means it is constantly seeking to reduce the environmental and carbon footprints of its construction projects. LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. It was created to set environmental standards in construction and provide a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green infrastructure.
Three stations on the Dubai metro extension, “Al Furjan or R-72”, “Discovery Gardens or R-71” and “The Gardens or R-70”, have now received the highest certification for sustainable construction in the world: the Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) v4 Building Design and Construction certification.
To increase the energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of the metro stations, ACCIONA optimized cooling systems, installed solar panels for energy, and used insulating material for the external walls and roof claddings, among other initiatives.
Carlos Bacaicoa, ACCIONA Stations Manager at the Dubai Metro “Route 2020”, said: “This project contemplates a high efficiency criteria in the selection of materials and systems in each of the buildings, taking into account its location in harsh climate conditions, its delicate environment and the existing resources. The results in smart, eco-efficient and more sustainable stations, which will save considerable energy and water throughout their lifespan. The construction methodology used by ACCIONA and Gulermak CWJV has been as respectful as possible to the environment.”
José Luis Oliván, ACCIONA’s Project Director of the Dubai Metro “Route 2020” project said: “LEED certification confirms Route 2020´s stations as examples of sustainability and excellence. It demonstrates our leadership in transforming the building industry. We are proud to contribute to the most sustainable World Expo in history”.
This achievement is part of a commitment of the ACCIONA and Gulermak Civil Works Joint Venture, CWJV, to ensure that the Dubai Expo 2020’s program-wide sustainability strategy integrates world-class processes and methodologies, from planning and design to construction and operations.
Dubai Metro’s 15km “Route 2020” includes 11.8km of elevated viaduct and a 3.2km underground tunnel, branching off the existing Red Line at the Nakheel Harbour & Tower Station. It has seven stations, including an interchange at Nakheel Harbour and an iconic metro station to welcome visitors to the World Expo site. The new line began operating on January 1st, with four stations open to the public.
ACCIONA is building the sustainable cities of the future by pioneering LEED certified, bioclimatic zero-emission building projects such as the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Canada, the Centro Tecnológico Campinas in Brazil, and the BBVA Bank headquarters, Campus Iberdrola Phase II, and Castellana 77 building in Spain.