@Green XTRA November/December 2023 | Page 5

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER . 2023

COP28

05 tion to innovation and sustainability has allowed them to overcome these challenges and significantly impact the construction industry .
A VERSATILE AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The potential applications of desert boards are vast .
“ You can use it for everything from building materials , furniture , and packaging to lining the floors of shipping containers . It ’ s a versatile material with applications limited only by imagination .”
Moreover , the ability to produce floorboards , fire-rated doors , SIP panels and even complete houses showcases the incredible potential of this product . The versatility and sustainable nature of the desert board opens a world of possibilities for environmentally conscious projects .
The Boards provide effective insulation , rendering them well-suited for construction in hot climates such as the UAE . Additionally , PSB serves as a product that not only diminishes the carbon footprint but also delivers functional and structural benefits .
A STEP FORWARD IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION
One of the most pressing challenges in the fight against climate change is the reduction of carbon dioxide ( CO2 ) emissions . Desert Board , with its innovative approach to construction materials , is vital in mitigating CO2 emissions in several ways .
The PSB boards are not just construction material but a carbon sink , which refers to processes or materials that absorb more CO2 than emitted . This remarkable feature of desert boards is achieved by sequestering carbon during the growth of the palm trees .
Fifty-four per cent of a palm frond ’ s biomass is carbon , and by converting these palm fronds into durable boards , Desert Board effectively locks in this carbon , preventing it from being released into the atmosphere . This process results in a net reduction of CO2 emissions , making Desert Board a valuable tool in the fight against climate change .
The disposal of palm fronds , if not repurposed , poses another environmental challenge .
Farah highlighted the problem : “ In the past , palm fronds were used to build houses and fences , but with modern construction , they were either burnt or buried . Burning them releases carbon into the atmosphere , while burying them takes up valuable land space and leads to slow decomposition , taking decades .”
Desert Board addresses this issue by upcycling palm fronds , reducing the need for landfill disposal . As a result , the potential for carbon emissions from landfills is significantly diminished , contributing to a cleaner environment .
The environmental benefits of the PSB boards extend beyond their unique production process . By using locally sourced palm fronds , Desert Board reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation .
Farah pointed out : “ Here we have material mostly available within the UAE to make all these products from . We no longer
need to import such vast material here .”
This localisation of production reduces emissions associated with transportation and supports the local economy by creating jobs and opportunities .
An end-of-life take-back system is in place as well , where boards can be reused or recycled and can become part of the raw material input again in the manufacturing process . This makes the boards an excellent example of an entirely local circular economy product .
Desert boards ’ versatility as a construction material offers multiple opportunities for reducing CO2 emissions in various industries . Its insulating properties make it an ideal choice for construction in hot climates . Improved insulation reduces the energy required for heating and cooling , leading to lower energy consumption and fewer CO2 emissions .
Furthermore , the ability of the PSB boards to be used in structural applications , such as beams and columns , can result in more efficient and sustainable building designs . Construction projects using PSB boards for structural elements can achieve greater energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint .
PATH TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Innovative solutions - like desert board ’ s - offer hope for a more sustainable future in a world where the construction industry significantly contributes to CO2 emissions . Its role as a carbon sink , waste reduction , and energy-efficient material showcases the potential to revolutionise construction practices .
Desert Board has made remarkable strides in the construction industry , but the journey towards a more sustainable future is ongoing . Farah and his team at Desert Board continue to innovate , pushing the boundaries of what their product can achieve . Their commitment to reducing carbon emissions , preventing waste , and creating local opportunities is unwavering .
As the world faces the urgent need to combat climate change and reduce CO2 emissions , the role of pioneering companies like Desert Board becomes increasingly vital . Their dedication to environmental responsibility and innovation is a model for businesses worldwide .
As they expand their reach and impact , Desert Board has the potential to inspire a wave of sustainable practices and environmentally conscious decisions across the construction industry and beyond . – @ Green
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