Green for go

The UAE is to become home to an eco-tourism project powered by 100 per cent clean renewable energy; used cooking oil is being recycled into biodiesel, helping to fuel the construction of new buildings in phase two of Sustainable City; and concept plans have been revealed for the first wooden skyscraper in Africa.

CENTRE OF ATTENTION

Plans have been revealed for an eco-tourism project in the UAE that will be powered by 100% clean renewable energy.

London-based Baharash Architecture has designed the Biodomes scheme in the eastern Al Hajar Mountains which will feature facilities for a wildlife conservation centre along with an adventure-based wilderness retreat.

Some 45 million visitors a year are expected in the UAE by 2021, some of whom will want to experience the country’s stunning mountain scenery.

It is hoped that Biodomes will raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity in this landscape and lessen the impact of uncontrolled conventional tourism which can lead to increased pollution, soil erosion and the loss of natural habitats and endangered species.

Three self-sustaining Biodomes have been proposed, to be constructed from prefabricated components in order to minimise disruption to the site and allow fast assembly.

The semi-subterranean typology provides passive cooling benefits and is “in harmony with nature,” said Baharash Bagherian, Design Director and Founder of Baharash Architecture.

He added: “The bioclimatic indoor environments will provide visitors with thermal comfort, restorative and therapeutic benefits.”

Visitors will be able to enjoy organic local cuisine in a restaurant, along with views of the landscape.

And the project, along with its renewable energy components, will recycle waste water on site for irrigation and will also feature on-site waste management solutions.