Classique by PLC Emerges as Sri Lanka’s First EDGE-Certified Green Building

April, 16, 2024

The Classique Centre by People’s Leasing & Finance (PLC), 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. Recognizing 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 1st 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, Mr. Shamindra Marcelline’s visionary roadmap 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% in energy use, water use, and embodied energy in materials compared to standard local buildings. This certification empowers organizations in emerging markets to adopt sustainable building practices in a fast, easy, and affordable manner.

Mr.Pradeep Amirthanayagam, Chairman at PLC commented saying, “While we thank our former CEO Mr. 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 Environmental, Social and Governance (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 minimizing 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.

Classique by PLC not only represents a groundbreaking achievement in sustainability but also offers the most premium customer experience as a complete bespoke financial services proposition. With a focus on customer-centric convenience, Classique offers a dedicated trilingual Relationship Manager for personalized support, exclusive financial products tailored to individual aspirations, and a range of privileges including special rates for insurance and enhanced withdrawal limits on complimentary debit cards. Embracing the digital age, Classique provides seamless internet banking and digital financial services too, ensuring customers can access their finances with the utmost convenience. Classique customers also enjoy additional perks such as invitations to exclusive events, including seminars and networking sessions, while also having the ability to make use of the elegant and functional Classique Boardroom for private meetings and important decision-making.

Having now achieved EDGE Certification, the Classique by PLC proposition stands as the benchmark for sustainability, innovation, and customer convenience, underpinned by cutting-edge technology, to deliver the best-in-class premium financial services proposition from Sri Lanka’s largest and most reputed non-banking financial services provider, People’s Leasing and Finance PLC.