Green building practices in higher education institutes: strategies for implementation

Purpose Owing to the exigency of higher education in relation to socio-economic development, it is essential to investigate designing, implementing and managing green educational facilities. Accordingly, this study aims to tailor strategic actions to accelerate the implementation of green building (GB) practices in higher education institutes (HEIs) in Sri Lanka. Design/methodology/approach The research aim was approached through a comprehensive literature synthesis followed by a case study. Three cases were studied by collecting data through semi-structured interviews and document reviews. In each case, three interviews were conducted. Collected data were thematically analysed followed by a cross-case synthesis. Findings Findings revealed that institutionalisation, planning, increasing the active involvement of stakeholders, leadership and management, research and education, government support and knowledge sharing and collaboration are the key strategies to be followed in the successful implementation of GB practices in HEIs. Institutionalisation is the key that forms the base for the effective exercise of other strategies. These strategies are interconnected and thus should be continually practised in parallel. Though GB practices can still be adopted skipping certain strategies, each strategy is crucial for long-term success. Practical implications This study, while providing strategies to accelerate the implementation of GB practices in HEIs, guides the management of HEIs in designing action plans by paying attention to context-specific attributes. Originality/value This paper provides empirical evidence on the areas that policymakers of the HEIs should focus on while implementing GB practices in HEIs efficiently and effectively.