Beirut, Lebanon – November 7, 2024 – The Munib and Angela Masri Institute of Energy and Natural Resources, in collaboration with ASHRAE's Lebanese Chapter and the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture at the American University of Beirut (AUB), co-hosted the Sixth International ASHRAE Conference on Efficient Building Design. Held in a hybrid format due to regional tensions, this marked the sixth consecutive year the conference has been hosted at AUB. The event highlighted the latest advancements in building design technologies focused on promoting sustainability and low-carbon solutions.
Omar M. Masri, a member of the Advisory Council and Steering Committee of the Masri Institute and the International Advisory Board of the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA) at AUB, welcomed a distinguished audience, including AUB President Fadlo R. Khuri, Provost Zaher Dawy, Trustee Munib R. Masri, ASHRAE President M. Dennis Knight, President of ASHRAE’s Lebanese Chapter Jack Ghosn, and Dr. Alan Shihadeh, Dean of the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture.
In his address to esteemed academics, industry leaders, AUB faculty, alumni, and students, Omar highlighted the conference’s many opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking. He also expressed heartfelt sympathies for those affected by the region's current turmoil, stating, “Amid the destruction, we plough ahead. We build and we rebuild, and we bring back hope for a brighter, safer, and cleaner future.”
Omar commenced this year’s conference by underscoring its wide range of presentations and discussions designed to maximize engagement and knowledge exchange in building design technologies and systems aimed at achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future. He noted that the event enhances AUB’s impact on the global stage while advancing sustainable and effective solutions for cooling and clean power generation.
During his address, Omar outlined the Masri Institute's initiatives, highlighting sustainable solutions developed in collaboration with local and international partners. He explained that, in partnership with the European Union, the Institute is developing a new model for sustainable energy and supporting an open educational platform with European and Palestinian universities. This platform aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable research, foster collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises, and amplify the impact of scientific research in sustainable energy.
On AUB’s campus, the Masri Institute has been instrumental in high-visibility projects promoting sustainable technologies, including vertical micro-wind turbines designed to operate effectively in low-wind urban areas. This innovative solution has potential for replication in Palestinian refugee camps across Lebanon, providing a viable option for powering UNRWA-run schools and clinics without requiring large surface areas. Additionally, Omar shared updates on another initiative involving the installation of smart HVAC systems in one of AUB’s buildings, which has successfully reduced energy consumption for cooling by over a third.
Omar emphasized the Masri Institute’s commitment to faculty research through seed funding focused on achieving a low-carbon future. This research leverages tools in science, technology, policy, and economics to drive the transition toward sustainable societal practices. Guided by Trustee Munib R. Masri’s vision, the Institute collaborates with AUB’s facilities planning and design team to develop initiatives aimed at reducing the campus’s carbon footprint and addressing complex environmental challenges with innovative solutions.
Expressing gratitude, Omar said "I am honored to be here today, representing my family, who stand resolutely behind AUB." He concluded his speech by wishing attendees a rewarding experience, emphasizing the conference's many opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking.
The Sixth International ASHRAE Conference on Efficient Building Design underscores the ongoing partnership between the Masri Institute, ASHRAE, and AUB to advance sustainable building practices. This collaboration reaffirms a shared commitment to creating impactful solutions for the built environment that benefit communities in Lebanon and beyond.
About the Munib and Angela Masri Institute of Energy and Natural Resources
The Masri Institute at the American University of Beirut (AUB), established in 2007, fosters interdisciplinary research and education in energy and natural resources. Supported by a multi-million-dollar endowment, the Institute collaborates with scientists, engineers, and professionals to promote sustainable development in the Arab world. It conducts research in renewable energy, resource management, and environmental solutions, and regularly organizes events to advance knowledge and innovation.
About ASHREA
ASHRAE, founded in 1894, is a global society committed to serving humanity by advancing HVAC&R technology. ASHRAE and its members are dedicated to promoting a healthy and sustainable built environment for all through research, standards writing, publishing, certification and continuing education.
About the American University of Beirut (AUB)
The American University of Beirut (AUB), founded in 1866, is a private institution in Beirut, Lebanon, offering over 130 degree programs across six faculties. AUB fosters critical thinking, lifelong learning, and civic responsibility, with a diverse faculty and student body. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, AUB is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the Middle East and beyond.