Designed by Grimshaw, UK, the Sustainability Pavilion highlights the importance of sustainable living and explores sustainable architecture, technology and solutions, of the future. Terra has successfully met the requirements of the LEED Platinum Certification, that is the highest available accreditation for sustainable architecture. Terra features a gigantic solar canopy that is fitted with 1,000 solar panels and employs state-of-the-art water technology, that have enabled the Pavilion to become a 100% self-sustaining structure, in terms of both water and energy – in the middle of the desert. Once inside the Pavilion, visitors can participate in an interactive and entrancing walk through an undisturbed forest, as well as have the opportunity to journey to the depths of the ocean. By its many innovative and thoughtful attractions, Terra hopes to propel change towards a greater, and greener, future by inspiring visitors, who are looking for ways to make a difference. Terra’s creative flair and sustainability theme extends to its landscaping as well. Almost 100 local species of plants were sourced to reduce water-consumption by 75%, and a mixture of recycled glass and concrete were used to execute the paving. Terra’s gardens also employ sustainable energy, hosting 18 energy trees fitted with solar panels, that rotate with the sun.
Proscape was contracted to execute the soft landscaping, hard landscaping, irrigation and architectural metal works, for the project.