Dubai Marina Mall has set in new environment-friendly benchmarks within mall operations, achieving 25 percent reduction in electricity use and 30 percent water conservation as compared to 2010. 

Currently 70 percent of the mall’s common areas depend on natural daylight when possible. By 2012, all fluorescent lighting in the common areas will be phased out and replaced with efficient LED lighting, a statement from the mall said.

The mall uses 100 percent environment friendly cleaning products (inclusive of biodegradable packaging) and recycle bins for clothing, have also been installed in the car parks, while only grey water is used for irrigation and landscaping.

Setting new trends in green mall management, the mall has set up a roof garden to reduce heat transmission and improve absorption, and the windows have been tinted to reduce heat transmission, in turn lowering cooling costs.

It is easily accessed by the residents of the Dubai Marina by foot, while bicycle paths and parking make access easy for the cyclist. The Roads & Transport Authority has introduced taxi and water ferry services from the mall’s station in the Marina Canal. Electric taxis operate along the promenade to transport shoppers around the Canal; however shoppers are encouraged to take green options such as the Dubai Metro, the statement said.

The mall’s commitment to environmental sustainability is underscored by the day-long exhibition Future Green 2011, in partnership with Goumbook on November 1.

Featuring 100 percent biodegradable and recyclable kiosks, Future Green 2011 will host green companies, eco-friendly businesses and environmental organisations showcasing their products and services. 

Showcasing a range of workshops on recycling, water scarcity and energy efficiency, Future Green, will provide focus for retailers to learn more about profitability through sustainability, including the advantages of shifting to LED lighting.

The event which is open to the public for free is expected to host exhibitors representing various sectors such as green awareness & education, beauty & health, clothing & accessories, organic food & green living, energy & water efficiency, and recycling. The participants will sell their products, services and solutions, thus encouraging visitors to become active partners in the green movement.

Children’s art workshops using recycled materials will be hosted during the day, giving a new definition to ‘green fingers’, the statement said.

At the event, the mall will introduce the special green ‘DMM Shopping Bag’, which shoppers can purchase from the Guest Service Desk for Dh20 ($5.44), a sales portion of which will to a Marina Conservation Charity.

Nasser Rafi, CEO, Emaar Malls Group, said: “Environmental sustainability is one of the key considerations of the government, with Dubai having taken visionary initiatives to promote green practices that help in conserving energy and water resources. We believe that as a popular shopping and entertainment destination, Dubai Marina Mall can make a difference by putting the spotlight on recycling and green best practices.”

“From its design aspects to various new initiatives that are being rolled out in the coming months, the mall is at the forefront of driving environmental awareness. The Future Green 2011 exhibition will further emphasis how the public can effectively partner in a cause that has great importance not only for us but also for future generations,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service