An ultramarathon runner and passionate environmentalist used his experience of a gruelling race through the Saharan desert to urge construction leaders across the Gulf region to be more mindful of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Aaron Hennessey, one of CIOB’s (Chartered Institute of Building) Sustainability Ambassadors in Oman and Group Managing Director of Douglas OHI, delivered a powerful talk at the Big 5 Global event held last month (November) at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Speaking to an international audience of construction professionals, Hennessy highlighted the critical role the Mena construction sector must play in advancing the SDGs, focusing on areas like water preservation and partnership.

A Chartered Environmentalist, Hennessy used stories from his experience as an ultramarathon runner to bring the SDGs to life. He shared a vivid memory from his first ultramarathon in Morocco, recalling the sense of unity amongst the competitors at the starting line.

“Even though everyone was technically racing against each other, we all shared one goal – to reach the finish line,” he said. 

“I believe the same philosophy applies to the construction industry. We may be in competition with one another, but when it comes to sustainability, we’re all running toward the same finish line. Everyone needs to play their part to create a more sustainable built environment,” he stated.

Hennessy also highlighted the importance of water preservation across the Mena region, drawing parallels between desert racing and the day-to-day realities of construction.

“It really made me realise how easily we take this precious resource for granted. In construction, especially in the Mena region, we must treat water as the scarce and invaluable resource it is,” he added.