The concept of green building is essential for fostering sustainable development and addressing global environmental challenges. Green buildings assist to conserve natural resources and lower greenhouse gas emissions by using sustainable materials, harnessing renewable energy sources, and minimizing energy use. Green buildings are economically advantageous since they use less energy and water, increase property prices, and draw financial incentives. higher ventilation systems and non-toxic materials contribute to higher indoor air quality and increased occupant well-being, which are health benefits. Socially, green buildings foster a better quality of life, foster community development, and provide educational possibilities. In a strategic sense, they strengthen corporate social responsibility, guarantee adherence to changing legislation, and boost resilience to climate-related effects. Therefore, the awareness of “green building” is essential to developing a constructed environment that is more robust, healthy, and sustainable.

Recognizing the need to enhance knowledge and awareness of green building concepts, the Environmental Service Avenue of Rotaract club of university of Sri Jayewardenapura initiated the “Build Green 2.0” project in collaboration with Interact Clubs of Bandaranayake College – Gampaha, Springfield College -Nugegoda and Rahula College- Matara.  This initiative aims to educate and engage the community on the benefits and practices of sustainable construction.

The “Build Green 2.0” project was meticulously planned and executed in four distinct phases, each with a specific objective aimed at increasing awareness of green building concepts. The first phase of the project concentrated on an article series, comprising five major articles. These articles covered key topics, including an introduction to green building concepts, the importance and benefits of green building, the principles underlying sustainable construction, and a showcase of the top green buildings in Sri Lanka. The purpose of releasing the article series is to educate and inform a wide audience about the importance and benefits of sustainable construction practices. By providing detailed insights into green building concepts, materials, and technologies, the series aims to raise awareness and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly practices in the construction industry. It seeks to highlight the environmental, economic, and health advantages of green buildings, showcasing real-world examples and best practices to inspire individuals, businesses, and policymakers. Additionally, the series intends to drive community engagement, support policy advocacy, and promote the development of a more sustainable, resilient built environment. Through these informative articles, the goal is to foster a collective movement towards greener, healthier, and more energy-efficient buildings for a better future.

Second Phase  of the Build Green 2.0 project culminated in a highly informative and engaging virtual webinar titled “Green building is the holistic approach to building that balance the use of resource with the health, wellness and control available to the people living in that home”. On the 17th of May, 2024 at 7:30 pm onward, a webinar was conducted using the Google Meet platform and the guest speaker was Archt. (Dr). Chameera Udawaththa , Chartered Architect (AIA SL), PhD (Civil Engineering), B.Arch (Architecture), Member of Green Building Council, Member of Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science, Senior Lecture at Department of Estate Management and Valuation, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura . The webinar offered participants a platform to deepen their understanding of green building concepts and explore sustainable solutions for future construction. This phase not only provided valuable knowledge about green buildings but also inspired more than thirty attendees to apply these learned concepts in their own lives, promoting a commitment to sustainable practices at a personal level.

As the third part of the project, a documentary video was created to illustrate how to implement green building concepts in homes. This video aims to provide practical ideas and guidance, showcasing real-life examples of sustainable construction and eco-friendly living for homeowners. The documentary features interviews with experts in green building, who share insights and tips on cost-effective ways to integrate sustainability into home design. Additionally, it highlights successful case studies of green homes, demonstrating the benefits of energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and improved indoor air quality. The video serves as an educational resource, empowering viewers to make informed decisions about sustainable living.

As the final phase of the “Build Green 2.0” project, a site visit to the Cinnamon Bey Hotel in Beruwala, recognized as one of the top green buildings in Sri Lanka, was organized for May 31^st , 2024, starting at 10:00 am. This visit aimed to provide real-world examples of the application of green building principles. Participants had the opportunity to see firsthand how sustainable construction practices, energy efficiency measures, and eco-friendly technologies are implemented in a commercial setting. During the visit, experts from the hotel’s management and green building consultants conducted guided tours, explaining the design features and technologies that contribute to the building’s green certification. Attendees learned about the hotel’s strategies for reducing water consumption, optimizing energy use through renewable sources, and enhancing indoor environmental quality. The site visit concluded with a panel discussion where participants could ask questions and discuss the challenges and benefits of green building implementation in hospitality and commercial sectors.

In conclusion, the “Build Green 2.0” project led by the Environmental Service Avenue of Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenapura, in collaboration with Interact Clubs, has successfully achieved its objectives of promoting awareness and education about green building concepts. Through a meticulously planned series of activities, including article publications, webinars, a documentary video, and a site visit to the Cinnamon Bey Hotel, the project has effectively demonstrated the importance and benefits of sustainable construction practices. Overall, the “Build Green 2.0” project has played a crucial role in fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for sustainable construction practices. By empowering individuals and communities with knowledge and inspiration, the project aims to contribute towards a more sustainable, resilient, and environmentally responsible future.