Dubai, UAE, 21 May 2016: Buildings have the world’s highest percentage of CO2 emissions, the design and facility management of high rise towers in passing through a phase of self-reflection to adapt to the new era. In the vertical development, new pioneering concepts such as biophilic design are being explored where people generate energy through their movement such as walking to transform human activity into energy asset.

Nadine Bitar, CEO, Placemaking.me, and Chairwoman, ID Advisory Board, American University of Dubai, said: “Biophilic design is an innovative way of designing places to live, work and learn, incorporating nature in a deep and fundamental fashion based on the human’s innate need to connect with nature. It enables public space to become multi-functional, making them as an investment rather than a capital cost. Imbedding biophilic design concepts might give rise to common spaces where residents and visitors mingle together to create an inclusive multi-cultural environment within the high-rise building.”

Throwing the spotlight on such avant-garde concepts and innovative technologies, Elevators & Access Control – the Building Access and Mobility Solutions Expo, will open from May 23 to 25, 2016 at the Dubai World Trade Centre as part of the first ever Community Management Week. The show will highlight the unique perspectives on how tall buildings can become active catalyst in achieving cities’ sustainability target and meeting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In addition, it will feature the highly engaging and stimulating Middle East High Rise Summit for industry professionals to gain insights on the latest developments and network with the industry supply chain.

Jaafar Shubber, Senior Project Manager, Elevators & Access Control said: “Advanced mobility solutions have transformed the way a space is perceived, facilitating construction of high rises and expansive malls. However, with strict government regulations on health, safety and security in the built-environment, elevators and escalators also need to be energy-efficient and safe. Highlighting current trends in tall buildings, the current edition of Elevators & Access Control, featuring the Middle East High Rise Summit and Innovation Zone will address key issues and major challenges to provide innovative and sustainable solutions.” 

The Middle East High Rise Summit will be held on May 24, 2016 under the theme ‘Design Innovation for Sustainable, High-Performance Buildings of the Future,’ where Nadine Bitar will speak on the ‘New Trends in Vertical Urban Design and Transit Technologies.’ Speaking about advancements in elevator and access control technology, she said that customised vertical travel solutions that uniquely fit the building without compromising on safety and health standards for residents are in strong demand.