Barwa and Qatari Diar, two leading real estate companies in Qatar, will soon embark on establishing a research institute right at the heart of Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), following QSTP’s recent approval of their application, officials announced at a press meet yesterday. The Barwa and Qatari Diar Research Institute will focus on studies about new knowledge in sustainability and its applications, aiming to address the environmental challenges and educate the construction industry. “The proposed QSTP-based BARWA and Qatari Diar Research Institute aims to develop new knowledge through research and development in urban construction,” said Dr. Yousef Al Horr, Chairman and Managing Director of Barwa Knowledge. “The presence of this institute will explore the possibility of coming up with alternative materials which are friendly to the environment,” said Eng. Mohammed bin Ali Al Hedfa, Deputy CEO of Business Development, Qatari Diar, and CEO of Lusail (Real Estate Development) Company. He emphasised the companies’ accountability to the society by making life better for the people through their upcoming projects. “The activities of the institute are twofold: green building systems and practices and addressing environmental challenges facing Barwa and Diar projects,” added Dr. Al Horr. Sustainable, or green, building design focuses on increasing the efficiency of resource use — energy, water and materials — while reducing building impacts on human health and the environment through better design, construction, operation and maintenance. “Dumping waste will not continue forever, we have to find a permanent solution to manage solid waste, in addition to finding ways on how to make use of excess water after treatment,” said Dr. Al Horr. Aside from QSTP, the project will be supported by Qatar National Research Fund in addition to collaboration with academic institutions and research centers belonging to international companies. “This research institute endeavours to be a model for other companies to establish research centers and will not only serve Barwa and Diar but also Qatar and the world,” said Dr. Al Horr. http://thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display_news.asp?section=Local%5FNews&subsection=Qatar+News&month=June2009&file=Local_News2009061822743.xml

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