Locally sourced building materials key to construction sustainability

SALALAH, OCT 10

A key forum on urban planning, held in Salalah recently, has underscored the importance of utilizing locally sourced natural building materials in the construction of residential, commercial and public sector buildings.

Various presenters at the forum, organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, stressed the benefits of opting for building materials that can withstand the region's unique climate and contribute to sustainability.

The presentations were made in the context of the Ministry’s plans for the development of a new sustainable east of Al Dahariz as part of the Greater Salalah master-plan in Dhofar Governorate. The new city will have a length of 5 km and will be home to about 30,000 to 40,000 inhabitants. It will have six hotel facilities with a total of 1,100 rooms, all of which will be located in the commercial heart of the city and in front of the marina.

The city will be designed to be sustainable in a number of ways. It will use renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. It will also have a rainwater harvesting system and a waste water treatment plant.

The buildings in the city will be designed to be energy efficient and to use recycled materials.

To help add a high degree of sustainability to the Smart City project, among other construction initiatives envisioned across Dhofar, the use of locally available building materials that is being strongly championed by urban planning experts. Notable examples of such sustainable resources include:

Terracotta panels: An eco-friendly choice due to their outstanding thermal insulation properties, they help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for energy-intensive heating or cooling. Additionally, terracotta panels require minimal maintenance because they resist fading, staining, and corrosion.

Limestone/Sandstone: Locally sourced limestone and sandstone are sturdy materials well-suited for Salalah's coastal environment. They stand up to the region's humidity and salt-laden air, making them ideal for construction. Moreover, their thermal mass properties contribute to stable indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on air conditioning.

Fibre Cement: Moisture and salt-resistant, fibre cement boasts a production process with a lower carbon footprint compared to some other materials. Plus, it incorporates recycled materials and uses less water than traditional cement.

Aluminium Panels: For cladding and exterior elements, aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer, making it highly resistant to corrosion in coastal areas. This durability reduces the need for frequent maintenance and repainting, saving costs in the long run. Additionally, aluminium is highly recyclable without losing its quality.