Holcim book on green clothing

Ramani Kangaraarachchi

Holcim Lanka has published "MAS Intimates Thurulie - clothing factory in Sri Lanka", a book - which explains a pioneering green clothing factory, a monograph on a ground breaking example of sustainable construction in the manufacturing industry.

The book clarifies in detail how the factory respects balanced social, environmental, and economic performance, delivers a functional and sensitive response to its unique setting, and sets an example of green building for Sri Lanka, the apparel industry, and industry worldwide.

Vice President Sustainable Construction Holcim Sri Lanka Rathika De Silva said the building is a visionary departure from traditional factory design, setting new standards for ethics and environmental stewardship in manufacturing.

In fact, MAS Intimates Thurulie claims to be the world's first clothing factory powered solely by renewable and carbon-neutral sources.

To economically achieve a comfortable indoor environment, the design responds to the tropical climate with a full array of passive cooling measures and with an energy-efficient mechanical cooling system. The approach is effective - energy required for operation is 40 per cent lower than that of comparable factories.

Designed for lean production, MAS Intimates Thurulie offers a pleasant and functional indoor environment that ideally supports manufacturing.

Every occupant enjoys fresh air, natural light, comfortable surroundings, and beautiful outdoor views of intact nature. The indoor and outdoor spaces are woven into a green park with a natural lake.

Harmonising with the site, the building expresses respect for nature.