PurposeGreen building, which is also commonly referred to as sustainable building, is focused on the processes implemented that are environmentally efficient and responsible throughout the life cycle of the building. This accounts for the time of manufacturing of materials, to the erection of these materials, on-site, to the operation of the building and how these efficient materials assist in the operation and running of the building daily, all the way through to the demolition. There are many aspects of the building process that can be switched to green. For the construction industry, the change to green design although the complex is nonetheless necessary. This study thus aims to focus on supporting the knowledge surrounding green buildings in high-rise construction. This research will undertake a comparative analysis and review of one case study in Melbourne, Australia.Design/methodology/approachThe direction of this study commences with an introductory section on what it means to build green. This section is further brokendown to evaluate what factors are involved in constructing a green building. The work then shifts towards the green building from a sustainability point of view, touching base with the level of awareness that is surrounding the green building and the level of ignorance that goes with this. Furthermore, the research includes specific pointers which are strategically placed to directly grab the attention of those who lack knowledge in the area of green building by offering a brief, yet in-depth, discussion of possible materials that can be incorporated in the construction phase and will, in turn, create for a more efficient building. As such, life cycle energy is then introduced and calculations are carried out. These calculations offer a more logical form of validation to the previous points and issues raised, with the hope to achieve a more in-depth grasp of the process involved with green building.FindingsThrough comprehensive research, this paper has found the following outcomes. (1) A detailed insight into the contributing factors to green building in high-rise construction and the construction industry in general. (2) An increased understanding of the current status of green buildings within the construction industry. (3) The creation of an effective research methodology plan to implement throughout this research. The appropriate steps and measures, that were required to deliver a successful research piece, included all relevant information. (4) The level of involvement required when calculating the energy levels, including how to perform these calculations when given the correct data, and what these calculations mean concerning what they are defining.Originality/valueThe potential contribution that can be gained from this research is the awareness that is raised in the research and development of green buildings in high-rise construction. This can be achieved by the use of certain materials such as new energy-efficient building materials, recycled materials, etc. Through the incorporation of certain green building methods, an opportunity for cost savings becomes an incentive for the client and builder as the chance for a larger profit margin becomes readily available. In addition to these issues that are anticipated for the potential contribution through this research, the sustainability aspects are also expected to prevail as the construction industry is likely to evolve with changing standards and expectations due to the publicity high-rise buildings achieve, it is more than likely that this research discussion will be adopted willingly and positively promoted for all those involved within the construction industry to get involved. The intention remains that this research paper will be able to contribute a new way of thinking and a new approach to the way of building in the 21st century. As this would be the ideal outcome, the aim remains to portray and deliver information surrounding the views that remain for and against the implementation of green buildings in high-rise construction.