PLC’s Classique, Sri Lanka’s first EDGE-certified green building

The Classique Centre by People’s Leasing & Finance (PLC) has earned distinction as Sri Lanka’s first EDGE-certified green building. 
The Classique Centre, which was designed and built around the concept of green building, is a true example of the fusion of product innovation and sustainable transformation, redefining the financial services landscape. Recognising this quantum leap forward in green building, together with the facility’s outstanding incorporation of sustainability and its integration of smart technology, the Classique Centre has now earned distinction as Sri Lanka’s first EDGE-certified green building. 

EDGE, an acronym for Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies, represents a free software, a green building standard and an international green building certification system, developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.

Under the leadership of the former CEO Shamindra Marcelline’s visionary road map for sustainable finance and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, PLC embarked on the journey to achieve EDGE certification for its Classique Centre. This initiative was undertaken with the expertise and guidance of co-energi (Private) Limited, an independent specialist provider of sustainable and resource-efficient designs in building engineering services.

EDGE certification sets a benchmark, requiring a minimum projected reduction of 20 percent in energy use, water use and embodied energy in materials compared to standard local buildings. This certification empowers organisations in emerging markets to adopt sustainable building practices in a fast, easy and affordable manner.
PLC Chairman Pradeep Amirthanayagam commented saying, “While we thank our former CEO Shamindra Marcelline for this initiative, we take immense pride in achieving Sri Lankas first EDGE certification for our Classique Centre. This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to our ESG journey towards sustainable investments. The strategies we’ve integrated into the building’s design for energy efficiency, water conservation and reduced emissions have been rigorously verified by Transgreen Sustainability Solution - Indian EDGE auditor and certified by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), clearly establishing the Classique Centre as a pioneering achievement in sustainable building practices in Sri Lanka. Classique embodies PLC’s dedication to providing unparalleled financial services whilst minimising our impact on the environment and we invite all customers and stakeholders to join us on this journey as we, ‘Go Green’.”

Committed to a sustainable future, PLC has incorporated rainwater harvesting system and renewable energy solutions within the Classique Centre, amongst many other sustainable mechanisms and strategies, as part of its ‘Go Green’ effort, exemplifying its dedication to environmentally conscious practices. Notably, the Classique Centre extends its commitment to sustainability initiatives by providing free electric vehicle charging service to its clientele, contributing to the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation support services in Colombo.