To ensure business continuity and uninterrupted operations, GORD has taken a number of unprecedented actions to support the construction and real estate organizations and professionals.

Announcing a series of measures to support the sustainability community in dealing with the disruptions resulting from the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) has eased up a number of conditions required to obtain CGP certificates and Service Provider licenses for the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS).

Following the State’s directives, all GSAS workshops scheduled for late March and April were earlier postponed as a pre-emptive measure to safeguard the health and well-being of staff, clients and the broader community. Considering the potential impact of these unavoidable delays, GORD has recently announced that its event postponements will not hinder the issuance of certificates for Certified Green Professionals (CGPs) whose memberships are expiring during this period. These candidates are only required to submit their renewal applications to extend the validity of their CGP certificates. Obtaining continuing education units (CEUs) through technical workshops is a prerequisite to be qualified as a GSAS CGP. Relieving the requirement of CEUs during this time will essentially mean that the professionals can continue working on GSAS projects without any delays or disruptions.

Another key announcement coming from GORD concerns the Service Providers of GSAS. Organizations applying or renewing their Service Provider License will be temporarily exempt from their credentials requirements and given a 6-month grace period to meet the conditions necessary to qualify as a GSAS Service Provider. A Service Provider License is mandatory to provide consultancy services for GSAS projects. To meet the conditions of this permit, organizations must demonstrate their technical capacity, including qualified personnel and CGPs, to undertake such projects. With the recently announced 6-month extension, organizations will now have ample time to meet the prerequisites and bid for GSAS projects without impacting their business.

Speaking about these policy decisions, Dr. Yousef Alhorr, Founding Chairman of GORD said,

In responding to this uncertain healthcare situation, GORD’s approach is both preventive and compassionate. While we have little control over externalities, we have taken all practical measures to continue the issuance of necessary credentials required by organizations and individuals to pursue GSAS projects. During these trying times, our message is loud and clear.. GORD is here to support the sustainability sector in every way possible.