Applicability of green certification system for domestic construction projects in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Consistently, researchers have noted that 20 to 30 percent of damage to the environment can be attributable to residential construction. There are a plethora of green certification systems available for implementation throughout the construction phase in Sri Lanka, and the number of adoptions has increased in recent years to lessen the impact on the environment. Even if there has been progress in the implementation of green certification systems, the procedure and associated expenses have been a major concern in the business community. Consequently, the objective of this study is to identify the best appropriate green certificate system for Sri Lankan residential construction projects. The literature review was conducted and analysed using "NVivo." Initially, a questionnaire was deployed to collect primary data, which was subsequently confirmed through interviews with subject matter experts. Sixty-nine professionals with 10 to 15 years of industry experience responded to the survey, and five specialists with more than 30 years of professional experience validated its results. Both the significance of adopting the green certification system and the hurdles that developed during its adoption were addressed in the study. It was recommended that state assistance, social awareness, and continuous education for professionals could facilitate in overcoming the obstacles. Finally, it was determined that the LEED system is the most appropriate green certification system for residential development because it generates environmentally and user-friendly sustainable products.