The certification was bagged by ACCIONA and Gulermak Civil Works Joint Venture(CWJV); and ACCIONA claimed that certifications for the rest four stations with the route are imminent, making the Dubai Metro extension the largest LEED Gold certified transit project all around the world.
ACCIONA has been committed to regularly reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprints of its construction projects, all across its projects.
Al Furjan or R-72, ‘Discovery Gardens or R-71’, and ‘The Gardens or R-70’, are the three stations that have bagged the LEED Gold v4 Building Design and Construction certification.
In order to build energy efficiency and to lessen the environmental impact of the metro station, ACCIONA used optimized cooling systems, solar panels, and used insulating material for the outer walls and roof claddings.
“This project contemplates 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,” said Carlos Bacaicoa, ACCIONA stations manager at the Dubai Metro “Route 2020”.
Adding further he said, “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.”
According to José Luis Oliván, ACCIONA’s project director of the Dubai Metro “Route 2020” project, the LEED certification “confirms Route 2020´s stations as examples of sustainability and excellence”.
Dubai Metro’s 15km “Route 2020” includes 11.8km of elevated viaduct and a 3.2km underground tunnel, spreading of the existing Red Line at the Nakheel Harbour & Tower Station. It contains seven stations, including an interchange at Nakheel Harbour and an iconic metro station to welcome visitors to the World Expo site.