Estidama Pearl

Rating System

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The Estidama  is a nationally recognized third-party endorsement of green building features in a project. Used by property buyers and tenants alike, the certification conveys an efficient and high performance building with lower running costs.

Estidama CERTIFICATION FEATURES

What Is It

Introduction

The Estidama Pearl Rating System is a sustainability assessment framework developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) in the United Arab Emirates. It aims to promote sustainable development practices in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by evaluating the environmental, economic, and social performance of buildings and communities.

The objective of the Estidama Pearl Rating System is to foster a sustainable built environment that enhances the quality of life for residents, conserves resources, and minimizes environmental impacts. By setting clear guidelines and performance criteria, the rating system encourages the adoption of sustainable design, construction, and operational practices.

The Estidama Pearl Rating System evaluates projects based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, waste management, and materials selection. It takes into account the entire life cycle of a building, from its planning and design to its construction and operation.

Certification levels are awarded based on the performance of a project, ranging from Pearl (the baseline level) to Silver, Gold, and Platinum (the highest level of achievement). These certifications provide recognition and incentives for projects that demonstrate exemplary sustainability practices.

The Estidama Pearl Rating System is designed to be context-sensitive, considering the unique environmental, cultural, and social aspects of Abu Dhabi. It aims to create sustainable and resilient built environments that are well-adapted to the region’s specific climatic conditions and cultural heritage.

By adopting the Estidama Pearl Rating System, developers, architects, and construction professionals can contribute to Abu Dhabi’s sustainable development goals. The system provides a framework for integrating sustainable practices into building projects, ensuring resource efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and improving the overall quality of life for residents.

Overall, the Estidama Pearl Rating System plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development and guiding the construction industry towards more environmentally responsible practices in Abu Dhabi.

what is Estidama rating system

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Estidama rating system is a sustainability assessment framework that promotes environmentally responsible building practices in Abu Dhabi.

 

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Criteria and Certification Levels

The Estidama Rating System is a comprehensive sustainability assessment framework developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) in the United Arab Emirates. It sets criteria and benchmarks for evaluating the environmental, economic, and social performance of buildings and communities in Abu Dhabi. This robust system aims to promote sustainable development and guide the construction industry towards more sustainable practices.

Criteria of the Estidama Rating System:

The Estidama Rating System evaluates projects based on several key criteria, covering various aspects of sustainability. These criteria include:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Projects are assessed based on their energy performance, focusing on measures to reduce energy consumption and promote the use of renewable energy sources.

  2. Water Conservation: The system emphasizes water efficiency, assessing the project’s water consumption, reuse, and innovative water management practices.

  3. Materials and Resources: The rating system considers the use of sustainable materials, waste reduction strategies, recycling practices, and the incorporation of locally sourced materials.

  4. Indoor Environmental Quality: Projects are evaluated for their indoor air quality, natural lighting, thermal comfort, and acoustic performance to ensure a healthy and comfortable environment for occupants.

  5. Sustainable Transport: The system encourages projects to promote sustainable transportation options, such as access to public transportation, pedestrian-friendly design, and bicycle infrastructure.

  6. Waste Management: The Estidama Rating System assesses waste management practices, including waste segregation, recycling programs, and reduction of construction and operational waste.

Certification Levels of the Estidama Rating System:

The Estidama Rating System offers different certification levels to recognize projects that achieve specific sustainability benchmarks. These certification levels are:

  1. Pearl: This is the baseline certification level, representing a minimum level of sustainability achievement.

  2. Silver: Projects that exceed the baseline requirements and demonstrate a higher level of sustainability performance can achieve the Silver certification.

  3. Gold: The Gold certification is awarded to projects that demonstrate significant sustainability achievements and exemplary performance across multiple criteria.

  4. Platinum: This is the highest level of certification, awarded to projects that exhibit exceptional sustainability performance and serve as benchmarks for sustainable development in Abu Dhabi.

The certification levels provide recognition and incentives for projects to continually improve their sustainability practices and achieve higher levels of performance. The Estidama Rating System aims to inspire and reward projects that go above and beyond in their commitment to sustainability, promoting a more sustainable built environment in Abu Dhabi.

Estidama criteria and certification levels

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"Energy-efficient structures designed with sustainability in mind, creating a greener and healthier environment." "These eco-conscious buildings minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant comfort and well-being."

 

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Different CASBEE Certifications

  1. The Estidama Rating System, developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) in the United Arab Emirates, offers a range of certifications to recognize and promote sustainable development practices in Abu Dhabi. These certifications serve as indicators of a project’s sustainability performance and are awarded based on meeting specific criteria and achieving predefined benchmarks. Let’s explore the different Estidama rating system certifications:

    1. Pearl Rating: The Pearl Rating is the foundational certification level within the Estidama Rating System. It recognizes projects that have demonstrated a commitment to basic sustainability principles and have fulfilled the minimum requirements across various sustainability criteria. Projects achieving the Pearl Rating have taken significant steps towards reducing environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency.

    2. Silver Rating: The Silver Rating represents a higher level of sustainability achievement. Projects that attain this certification have exceeded the baseline requirements and demonstrated notable progress in implementing sustainable design, construction, and operation practices. They showcase a stronger commitment to environmental stewardship and incorporate innovative strategies for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and more.

    3. Gold Rating: The Gold Rating signifies exemplary sustainability performance. Projects awarded the Gold certification have gone above and beyond the requirements of the Pearl and Silver levels. They demonstrate outstanding leadership in sustainable design and construction, achieving significant reductions in energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation. These projects prioritize occupant comfort, health, and well-being while considering the long-term environmental impacts.

    4. Platinum Rating: The Platinum Rating is the highest level of certification within the Estidama Rating System. Projects that receive this certification have demonstrated exceptional sustainability achievements and serve as role models for sustainable development in Abu Dhabi. They exhibit best practices in all aspects of sustainability, showcasing innovations in design, technology, and operations. Platinum-rated projects significantly minimize their environmental footprint and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable built environment.

    The Estidama Rating System certifications provide valuable recognition to projects that prioritize sustainability and inspire others to follow suit. They showcase the commitment of developers, architects, and construction professionals to adopting sustainable practices and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a global leader in sustainable urban development.

    It’s important to note that achieving higher certification levels requires meeting increasingly stringent sustainability criteria and demonstrating continuous improvement. The Estidama Rating System encourages ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and feedback to ensure that certified projects maintain their sustainability performance over time.

Each of the above ratings are detailed systems of credits and prerequisites. The certification process is equally complex. Consult a green building specialist to determine which rating system your project should adopt to reap the maximum benefit out of the certification without paying extra for the same brand. 

Different Estidama certifications

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Registration and Rating Procedure

The Estidama Rating System, developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) in the United Arab Emirates, provides a robust framework to evaluate and promote sustainable development practices in Abu Dhabi. The registration and rating procedure of the Estidama Rating System ensures that projects adhere to sustainability principles and strive for continuous improvement. Let’s delve into the details of the registration and rating process:

1. Registration Process: To participate in the Estidama Rating System, project teams must register their projects with the Estidama Program. The registration process involves the following steps:

  • Submission of Project Information: The project team provides essential details about the development, including its type, scope, and location. This information helps determine the appropriate rating system and criteria for evaluation.

  • Payment of Registration Fee: A fee is required to register the project with the Estidama Program. The fee amount depends on the project type and size.

  • Appointment of a Pearl Qualified Professional: A Pearl Qualified Professional (PQP) must be appointed to guide the project team throughout the assessment and certification process. The PQP acts as a sustainability expert, ensuring compliance with Estidama requirements.

2. Rating Procedure: Once the project is registered, it undergoes an assessment process based on the Estidama Rating System criteria. The rating procedure involves the following key steps:

  • Design Stage Assessment: During the design stage, the project team prepares and submits relevant documentation, including drawings, specifications, and sustainability strategies. These materials are reviewed and assessed by the Estidama Program to evaluate compliance with the required sustainability criteria.

  • Construction Stage Assessment: Once construction commences, the project team provides documentation, such as progress reports and site photos, to demonstrate the implementation of sustainable practices on-site. This information is reviewed and verified by the Estidama Program.

  • Performance Verification: After completion, the project undergoes a performance verification process to ensure that the implemented sustainability measures deliver the expected outcomes. This may involve on-site inspections, testing, and verification of energy and water consumption data.

  • Certification: Based on the assessment outcomes, the project is awarded a certification level (Pearl, Silver, Gold, or Platinum) that reflects its sustainability performance. The certification provides recognition for the project’s sustainability achievements.

It’s important to note that the Estidama Rating System encourages continuous improvement. Projects are encouraged to reassess their sustainability performance periodically and undertake additional measures to enhance their rating level.

The registration and rating procedure of the Estidama Rating System promotes transparency, accountability, and adherence to sustainable development practices. By participating in this process, project teams contribute to the creation of a more sustainable built environment in Abu Dhabi, aligned with the vision of the emirate’s leadership.

Estidama registration and rating procedure

The World of Green Building Certifications:

Professional Credentials

The Estidama Rating System, developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) in the United Arab Emirates, emphasizes the importance of professional expertise in driving sustainable development. Estidama offers a range of professional credentials to recognize individuals who possess the necessary knowledge and skills to implement sustainable practices in the built environment. These credentials signify a commitment to sustainability and promote excellence in the industry. Let’s explore the professional credentials offered by the Estidama Rating System:

1. Pearl Qualified Professional (PQP): The Pearl Qualified Professional (PQP) credential is designed for individuals who demonstrate expertise in the Estidama Rating System and its associated sustainability requirements. PQPs play a crucial role in guiding project teams throughout the registration, assessment, and certification process. They possess in-depth knowledge of sustainability principles and strategies, enabling them to effectively integrate sustainable practices into projects.

2. Pearl Qualified Design Professional (PQDP): The Pearl Qualified Design Professional (PQDP) credential is specifically tailored for architects and design professionals. PQDPs possess a deep understanding of sustainable design principles and are well-versed in the Estidama Rating System criteria. They provide valuable guidance during the design stage, ensuring that projects meet the required sustainability benchmarks and contribute to a more sustainable built environment.

3. Pearl Qualified Construction Professional (PQCP): The Pearl Qualified Construction Professional (PQCP) credential is targeted at construction professionals, contractors, and site managers. PQCPs possess expertise in implementing sustainable construction practices in accordance with the Estidama Rating System requirements. They oversee the implementation of sustainability strategies during the construction phase and ensure that projects meet the specified sustainability goals.

4. Pearl Qualified Operations & Maintenance Professional (PQOMP): The Pearl Qualified Operations & Maintenance Professional (PQOMP) credential is aimed at facility managers and operations professionals. PQOMPs have a deep understanding of sustainable operations and maintenance practices. They ensure that buildings and facilities continue to perform at the desired sustainability levels even after completion. PQOMPs play a vital role in optimizing energy and water consumption, waste management, and occupant comfort, leading to long-term sustainability benefits.

These professional credentials are awarded to individuals who successfully complete the required training and demonstrate proficiency in their respective areas of expertise. The credentials not only recognize the individual’s knowledge and skills but also promote a culture of sustainability leadership within the industry.

By obtaining Estidama professional credentials, individuals demonstrate their commitment to sustainable development practices and their ability to contribute to the achievement of Abu Dhabi’s sustainability goals. These credentials also provide a competitive advantage in the industry, as clients and employers increasingly prioritize sustainability expertise and credentials.

Estidama Professional Credentials

Key Features

    1. The Estidama Rating System, developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) in the United Arab Emirates, is a comprehensive framework designed to promote sustainable development and create a more environmentally responsible built environment. The system encompasses a range of key features that distinguish it as a leading sustainability assessment tool. Let’s explore the key features of the Estidama Rating System:

      1. Holistic Approach to Sustainability: The Estidama Rating System takes a holistic approach to sustainability, considering various aspects of the built environment, including design, construction, operation, and maintenance. It evaluates projects based on a comprehensive set of criteria that cover environmental, economic, and social aspects, ensuring a well-rounded approach to sustainable development.

      2. Integration of Local Context: One of the standout features of the Estidama Rating System is its integration of the local context. The system acknowledges the unique environmental and cultural characteristics of Abu Dhabi and tailors the criteria accordingly. This ensures that projects are designed and implemented with a deep understanding of the local context, leading to more relevant and effective sustainability outcomes.

      3. Four-Tiered Certification Levels: The Estidama Rating System offers four certification levels for projects, known as “Pearl,” “Silver,” “Gold,” and “Platinum.” Each certification level represents a higher level of sustainability performance and recognizes projects that go above and beyond the minimum requirements. This tiered approach allows for differentiation among projects and encourages continuous improvement in sustainability practices.

      4. Emphasis on Energy and Water Efficiency: Energy and water efficiency are critical focus areas of the Estidama Rating System. The system sets stringent requirements and targets for reducing energy consumption and promoting efficient water use. By prioritizing these aspects, the rating system contributes to resource conservation, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced operational efficiency.

      5. Consideration of Indoor Environmental Quality: The Estidama Rating System recognizes the importance of indoor environmental quality in promoting occupant health, comfort, and productivity. It incorporates criteria that address aspects such as indoor air quality, natural lighting, acoustics, and thermal comfort. This emphasis ensures that buildings provide healthy and comfortable indoor environments for occupants.

      6. Embrace of Innovation: The Estidama Rating System encourages innovation and the adoption of new technologies and practices that enhance sustainability. It rewards projects that demonstrate innovative solutions and strategies that push the boundaries of sustainable design and construction. This approach promotes continuous learning, fosters creativity, and drives the industry towards more sustainable practices.

      7. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement: The Estidama Rating System emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and improvement of sustainability performance. Projects are encouraged to regularly track and report their energy and water consumption, waste management, and other sustainability metrics. This monitoring enables project teams to identify areas for improvement, optimize performance, and ensure the long-term sustainability of their developments.

      The Estidama Rating System stands as a testament to Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainability and serves as a guiding framework for the design, construction, and operation of sustainable buildings and communities. Through its key features, the system fosters a culture of sustainability, innovation, and responsible development, contributing to a more sustainable future for Abu Dhabi.

Estidaman key features
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Pros and Cons of Implementation

Implementing the Estidama Rating System, developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) in the United Arab Emirates, brings a range of benefits and challenges. This comprehensive sustainability assessment tool plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development and creating a more environmentally responsible built environment. Let’s explore the pros and cons of implementing the Estidama Rating System:

Pros of Implementing the Estidama Rating System:

1. Drive Towards Sustainability: The Estidama Rating System provides a clear roadmap for integrating sustainability into the design, construction, and operation of buildings and communities. It promotes resource efficiency, environmental protection, and social well-being, driving a culture of sustainability in Abu Dhabi.

2. Enhanced Marketability and Reputation: Achieving a higher certification level in the Estidama Rating System, such as Pearl, Gold, or Platinum, enhances the marketability and reputation of projects. It demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, appealing to environmentally conscious investors, tenants, and occupants.

3. Local Context Adaptation: The Estidama Rating System considers the unique local context of Abu Dhabi, taking into account the environmental and cultural characteristics of the region. This ensures that projects are designed and implemented in harmony with the local environment, climate, and traditions, creating a sense of place and identity.

4. Energy and Water Efficiency: By focusing on energy and water efficiency, the Estidama Rating System helps reduce resource consumption and operational costs. It encourages the adoption of sustainable technologies and practices, leading to lower energy bills, water savings, and a smaller carbon footprint.

5. Improved Indoor Environmental Quality: The Estidama Rating System emphasizes the importance of indoor environmental quality, promoting healthier and more comfortable living and working environments. It addresses factors such as indoor air quality, natural lighting, acoustics, and thermal comfort, enhancing occupant well-being and productivity.

Cons of Implementing the Estidama Rating System:

1. Initial Costs: Implementing the Estidama Rating System may involve higher upfront costs due to the need for sustainable design, construction, and materials. The initial investment required to meet the criteria and achieve higher certification levels can be a barrier for some projects, particularly smaller-scale developments.

2. Technical Complexity: The Estidama Rating System involves a comprehensive set of criteria and performance metrics, which can be technically complex and require specialized expertise. This complexity may pose challenges for project teams, especially those with limited experience or resources in sustainable design and construction.

3. Compliance and Documentation: Meeting the requirements of the Estidama Rating System demands diligent compliance and documentation. The process of gathering and submitting the necessary data and evidence for assessment and certification can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, requiring careful project management and coordination.

4. Evolving Standards and Updates: Sustainability standards and practices are constantly evolving, and the Estidama Rating System undergoes periodic updates to stay aligned with the latest advancements. Keeping up with these changes and ensuring compliance with updated criteria may require additional effort and investment.

5. Cultural and Behavioral Shift: Implementing the Estidama Rating System may require a cultural and behavioral shift within the industry. It requires the active involvement and commitment of all stakeholders, including developers, architects, contractors, and facility managers, to embrace sustainability practices and change their traditional approaches.

Despite the challenges, the Estidama Rating System provides a valuable framework for achieving sustainable development in Abu Dhabi. By leveraging the benefits and addressing the associated challenges, stakeholders can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient built environment, improving the quality of life for current and future generations.

Estidama pros and cons
Attadeep master
Attadeep master
April 21, 2023.
Execellant approach right from baseline to expert level. It is to beneficial both for a novice as well as professionals.
Shekhar Gupta
Shekhar Gupta
April 21, 2023.
Mr. Anupam has vast knowledge on the subject and has set stringent parameters for analysis of the building / project. The data produced will be used to obtain the Green certifications from various authorities. He has induced a sense of LIFE and our responsibility towards the environment through the building department.
Sanjay Kumar
Sanjay Kumar
April 21, 2023.
Nice company with deep and vast experiences in the field green building design and consultation
Kapil Gupta
Kapil Gupta
April 21, 2023.
Fantastic lecture series, well curated presentation materials, in depth understanding of Green building ratings mechanism and friendly behaviour. It was three days workshop and this was the best time for me to understand green buidling rating mechanism and interaction with one of the highly skilled Green Building consultant as well as a great human being. Thanks for it.
aishwarya richa
aishwarya richa
April 21, 2023.
Knowledge about each topic is quite appreciable. Professional, technical soundness about green bldg with architect view is quite helpful for understanding basics. His workshop is worth attending.
Biplab Nath
Biplab Nath
April 21, 2023.
I have undergone training for GHAR rating system . Mr Jain is immensely knowledgeable and helped me in acquiring the same upto my satisfaction within a short period of time.
narendra pathak
narendra pathak
April 21, 2023.
Excellent demonstration regarding green building norms and methods of rating based on GHAR green building criteria .
Joydeep Sengupta
Joydeep Sengupta
April 21, 2023.
Enjoyed thoroughly each session of the training program attended at CPWD Training Academy. It has been great exchanges of ideas. Learnt a lot from Mr Anupam Jain on the existing Green rating systems, the practices in the real world and last but not the least, the newly developed rating system of CPWD, that is GHAR.
Narendra Sharma
Narendra Sharma
April 21, 2023.
Very useful for us. We learnt a lot.

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