News
U.S. embassy achieves LEED Gold Certification as Sri Lanka’s 50th Gold certified building
U.S. Embassy Colombo yesterday (12) announced the achievement of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Gold certification, becoming the 50th building in Sri Lanka to earn this globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement. The U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED green building program recognizes energy efficiency, water management, waste reduction, and indoor environmental quality execution in the built environment.
The embassy statement: This milestone demonstrates the United States’ commitment to sustainability and climate resiliency in practice, the Embassy’s commitment to environmental stewardship, and respect for Sri Lanka’s ecology, history, and culture.
To commemorate this accomplishment and in anticipation of World Energy Conservation Day on December 14, U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung recently met with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Dhammika Patabendi and Minister of Energy Kumara Jayakody to discuss the Embassy’s state-of-the-art facilities. The Ambassador emphasized the building’s innovative energy-efficient design, the integration of local elements, and the importance of sustainable practices in addressing global environmental challenges.
“Achieving LEED Gold certification is a significant step in demonstrating our shared commitment to sustainability,” said U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung. “This building is more than an Embassy—it’s a symbol of how thoughtful design and green practices can protect our environment while honoring Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural heritage. We are proud to stand as the 50th LEED Gold certified building in the country, contributing to Sri Lanka’s greener future.”
Minister Patabendi stated, “The U.S. Embassy achieving LEED Gold certification is a significant milestone in sustainable infrastructure development. This building exemplifies innovative design, energy efficiency, and respect for our local environment through the use of native plants and integration of local artistry. It sets a benchmark for future projects and highlights the positive impact of international collaboration in advancing sustainability goals in Sri Lanka. It reflects the strong partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka and demonstrates how thoughtful design can benefit both the environment and the community.”
Police urge motorists who intend to use the Ella – Wellawaya Road to use alternative roads as there is a severe vehicle congestion due to inclement weather condition.
The oil anointing ceremony for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year was held on April 16 at the historic Rajamaha Viharaya in Kolonnawa, with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.
Following the chanting of pirith, the oil anointing ritual was carried out at the auspicious time of 9:04 a.m., by the Chief Incumbent of the temple, Venerable Kolonnawa Dhammika Thero.
Speaking after the ceremony the Prime Minister said that:
“The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is one of the most important festivities in our country. It is a celebration with our families, reflecting our traditions and customs while strengthening the ties.
This festival leads the path for renewing unity, love, and bonds stronger. These values enrich a country. Development of a country is not limited by one-dimensional; a true development includes spirituality, relationships, and connections. The reason why we uphold these customs in such ceremonies is to remind ourselves of the significance and to pass on their value to future generations.
Therefore, today marks a significant day. Throughout this week, we came together and engaged in various activities. Followed by, the next event will mark the leaving for employment at the auspicious time and we should start working collectively to rebuild the country.
I wish everyone a New Year that is prosperous, peaceful, joyful, full of strengthened relationships, and most importantly, safe for all.”
The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Maha Sangha, and attended by the Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara, Divisional Secretary to Kolonnawa Priyanath Perera, Municipal Secretary Nelum Kumari Gamage, and the residents of the area.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
Latest News
Heat Index at ‘Caution Level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts today [16]
Warm Weather Advisory Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology for 16 April 2025
The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the table below and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated. Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
Peru’s ex-president and first lady sentenced to 15 years in jail
China’s Xi hails ‘new golden era’ with Malaysia during trade tour
Severe traffic reported on Ella-Wellawaya road due to inclement weather
-
News5 days agoSuspect injured in police shooting hospitalised
-
Features6 days agoRobbers and Wreckers
-
Business6 days agoBhathiya Bulumulla – The Man I Knew
-
Business5 days agoSanjiv Hulugalle appointed CEO and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka
-
Business7 days agoNational Anti-Corruption Action Plan launched with focus on economic recovery
-
Features4 days agoLiberation Day tariffs chaos could cause permanent damage to US economy, amid global tensions
-
Business4 days agoMembers’ Night of the Sri Lanka – Russia Business Council of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
-
Features4 days agoMinds and Memories picturing 65 years of Sri Lankan Politics and Society