TO encourage the next generation of building professionals to have a stronger sustainability mindset, leading cement manufacturer Holcim Philippines Inc. has launched a design competition that evaluates proposed projects not just on their aesthetic elements and financial feasibility but also on their envisioned environmental and social benefits.

Called the Young Builders Challenge (YBC), the competition is open until April 2019 to engineering and architecture students. Participants must be currently enrolled and in their third year in college.

Projects that have commenced prior to December 2018 and have been pitched in other competitions will still qualify in the YBC provided these have not won any local or regional competitions of the same nature. The contest will have three winners who will receive a cash prize of up to P80,000. Their schools will also get P20,000.

The YBC is inspired by the LafargeHolcim Foundation’s Sustainable Construction Awards, a global design contest that encourages construction industry professionals and students to put forward visionary projects and bold ideas for a sustainable future. Each competition cycle spans three years, from announcement to completion with a total of US$2 million in prize money.

Holcim Philippines vice president for communications Cara Ramirez said: “We believe it is important to instill a sustainability mindset during the formative stage of aspiring industry professionals, and this is one way our company is contributing to this goal. We are excited to receive entries from students from across the country and see their ideas that can address the sustainability challenges we are facing.”

Students who are interested in joining the competition may check the complete mechanics and guidelines at the YBC microsite website at https://youngbuilderschallengeph.com. PR