As construction begins on the eye-catching UK Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, the Department for International Trade has tasked independent environmental consultancy, Resource Futures, to lead a team to explore decommissioning possibilities.
Resource Futures, with a team that includes Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) and Victoria Bond Consulting, will assess the future of the UK Pavilion post event. The centrepiece of the design will be a 20-metre-high cone-shaped, cross laminated timber (CLT) construction, which will be the focus of the UK’s presence at the international exhibition from 20 October 2020 to 10 April 2021.
In accordance with Expo’s target for the site to be restored post event and for each Country Pavilion to redeploy, recycle or return 75 percent of construction materials back to the manufacturer, Resource Futures and collaborators will focus on ensuring the maximum amount of materials are diverted from landfill.
Resource Futures also aims to provide a framework for future decommissions where options can be scored against metrics such as carbon savings, legacy, ease of logistics and cost to help assess future concepts.
Allan Sandilands, Principal Consultant at Resource Futures, said:
“The UK at Expo 2020 Dubai project team are an exemplar in terms of valuing deconstruction as much as construction itself, setting the example for the construction industry on an international stage”.
“Far too often, decommissioning and end of life is an after-thought which results in unnecessary wastage and missed opportunities. We look forward to helping to develop a strategic, sustainable outcome for the decommissioning of the UK Pavilion.”
Laura Faulkner, UK Commissioner and Project Director for Expo 2020 Dubai, said:
“Delivering a strong legacy for the UK’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai is an integral part of the project. As a nation, we are at the forefront of sustainable construction techniques and so I am delighted to be working with Resource Futures on the physical legacy of the UK Pavilion. Their expertise and proposed solutions will feed into our overarching legacy ambitions, including digital, business and cultural benefits as a result of the UK’s participation in this major world event.”
The UK Pavilion will be built using sustainable construction methods, local suppliers and responsibly and sustainably sourced materials.
Pico International has been awarded the Construction contract for the UK Pavilion, working with their sub-contractor, McLaren.
Expo 2020 Dubai is expected to receive 25 million visits from across the world. The UK Pavilion will showcase the best of British innovation, creativity and expertise to the world, with an accompanying six-month programme of activity to engage business and consumer audiences for six months.