Written by: Mahra Al Hosani

About the Speaker:

David Shepley is a prominent sustainability expert hailing from Connecticut, USA. He is a graduate of Columbia University with a degree in sustainable development and economics. Currently, he holds a pivotal role as the Director of  Sustainability at FIVE Holdings, a UAE-based real estate and hospitality group. Under his leadership, FIVE has achieved LEED Platinum certification for all its four hotels and 100% solar electricity for its Dubai hotels, exemplifying an unwavering commitment to achieving congruence in environmental and financial strength. His journey into sustainability offers a profound insight into the multifaceted world of eco-conscious endeavors.

The Discussion:

Embracing Sustainable Energy in Dubai:

During our enlightening conversation, David revealed an exciting achievement that has had a remarkable impact on his journey. He shared that his Dubai hotels at FIVE Holdings have shifted to procure 100% solar electricity, receiving I-RECs to validate the agreement with DEWA. They now source all their electricity from the Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, currently the world's largest independent solar park. This transition not only aligns with their sustainability goals but also mirrors the UAE's robust commitment to sustainability. David has led FIVE to sign the UAE Climate Responsible Companies Pledge issued by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. By adopting this green power source, they've significantly reduced their carbon footprint (76.2% reduction from 2020 baseline in Carbon Use Intensity),  as solar energy boasts minimal CO2 emissions.

Sustainability Ratings:

In the corporate world, there's a growing trend of companies being rated by international agencies based on their sustainability efforts. These ratings encompass environmental, social, and governance criteria. Remarkably, FIVE Holdings stands out in this regard. It proudly holds an ‘A’ rating, which is the highest grade achieved to date. In fact, FIVE Holdings is the only company among a staggering 10,000 companies across all industries rated by International Shareholder Services (ISS) to receive this coveted recognition for sustainability. This rating, based on an exhaustive analysis of public information, underscores the company's commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles and implemented practices.

Sustainability Across All Dimensions:

David emphasized how sustainability is a dynamic concept that encompasses various aspects. Beyond the traditional focus on environmental preservation, it includes the economic, social, and even governance dimensions. In his role at FIVE Holdings, he views a hotel as a complete ecosystem. It comprises multiple components, such as kitchens, pools, employees, guests, engineers, and machines. The challenge is to harmonize these elements to meet the goals of sustainability. According to David, such an approach allows a business to thrive while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability.

The Intersection of Sustainability:

David Shepley's journey underscores the importance of finding harmony between economic interests, social well-being, and environmental conservation. It is not about being judgmental but about creating a balance where all three elements can flourish. While many may view sustainability as a dichotomy, David's experiences exemplify that it can be a synergistic process.

Piece of Advice on Sustainability:

David Shepley shares a valuable piece of advice for those exploring the world of sustainability: "Sustainability is vast and encompasses many aspects. If you're passionate about sustainability, find the specific area that truly fascinates you. Whether it's food science, economics, social responsibility, or environmental preservation, identifying your genuine passion within sustainability is key to making a meaningful impact."

David Shepley's journey in sustainability is a testament to the evolving nature of this field. From his early days as a wildlife enthusiast to empowering the Maasai tribe in Tanzania, he has demonstrated that sustainability is a dynamic concept with diverse facets and global applications. His current role at FIVE Holdings reflects his unwavering commitment to harmonize environmental, economic, and social interests, challenging himself and those around him to learn, iterate, and evolve. Ultimately, he shows that pursuing true sustainability is not only possible but also rewarding, even in industries that may seem incongruous with eco-conscious efforts.