Enhancing green achievement: an emphasis on design features.

Abstract

The increasing sustainability challenges have prompted the construction industry to shift towards Green building practices globally. Despite the introduction of numerous rating systems aimed at promoting environmentally responsible construction, their adoption remains limited due to various contextual challenges. This study investigates the role of design features in enhancing Green achievement within the framework of these rating systems. A case study research method was employed through a comparative analysis of three buildings certified under the GREENSL rating system in Sri Lanka. The study aimed to identify key design strategies that enhance building performance in terms of Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ), Sustainable Sites (SS), and Energy and Atmosphere (EA). Primary data were collected through document analysis and formal discussions with Architects involved in the selected projects. The findings indicate that all three buildings prioritised natural ventilation, optimal daylight penetration, minimal water consumption, and strategies to reduce energy use and site disturbance, which significantly contributed to credits under Indoor Environment Quality, Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, and Energy and Atmosphere. Specific measures included the use of central atriums for passive ventilation, appropriate building orientation to reduce solar heat gain, incorporation of drought-tolerant native landscaping, and integration of renewable energy systems. The study further highlights the need to educate stakeholders on green practices and the technologies available worldwide to increase their adoption.