American University of Sharjah (AUS) won the "Green School" category at the Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC) 2015 Awards held recently at Al Murooj Rotana Hotel in Dubai. The university received this award for its Campus Service Center which reflects its efforts and commitment to providing a sustainable and efficient campus environment.

The EGBC Awards recognize excellence in sustainability and honor architects, consultants and contractors that demonstrate clear implementation of sustainable design, construction and operation of buildings and structures. It is an initiative of the Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC), an independent forum aimed at conserving the environment by strengthening and promoting green building practices.

The award ceremony was attended by Dr. Thani Ahmed Al-Zayoudi, Director of Energy and Climate Change at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who presented a keynote address highlighting the importance of green building practices, prior to the introduction of the winners by Saeed Al Abbar, Chairman of EmiratesGBC.

"We are truly pleased to receive this award," said Dr. Bjorn Kjerfve, Chancellor of AUS. "The Emirates Green Building Council Award is recognition for our university's commitment and dedication in providing a sustainable and efficient campus environment," he said.

"This award inherently highlights AUS's campus development commitment to sustainable design and development and its important role to the institution," said Shwan Alhashimi, Director of Campus Development at AUS. "Our goal is to support the local sustainable efforts through simple yet innovative architectural solutions. This recognition raises the institution's confidence that we are heading in the right direction."

Announcing the awards, Al Abbar, said, "The Emirates Green Building Council Awards have become a core part of our activities in promoting sustainable built environments in the UAE, and in turn contributes to the 'green economy for sustainable development' vision announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The high quality of entries for the 2015 EGBC Awards underlines the increased interest and involvement by various organizations and individuals in the UAE and the wider Middle East region in the green building sector."

The EGBC was formed in 2006, with the goal of advancing green building principles for protecting the environment and ensuring sustainability in the United Arab Emirates. Its ultimate goal is to help establish a regional model for the sustainable built environment that is a leader and a showcase for the world.