BREEAM Certification

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is one of the world’s most established and respected green building certification systems. Launched in 1990 by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in the UK, BREEAM offers a comprehensive framework for assessing and improving the environmental performance of buildings across various categories. It serves as a global standard for driving best practices in sustainable design, construction, and operation while enhancing buildings’ environmental impact, economic viability, and user well-being.

Why BREEAM Certification Matters

In the face of climate change and environmental degradation, sustainable building practices have become essential. The construction and operation of buildings are responsible for a significant share of carbon emissions, energy consumption, and resource depletion. BREEAM certification not only helps reduce these impacts but also adds long-term value and resilience to buildings.

For developers, BREEAM certification offers benefits such as:

• Increased asset value
• Lower operational costs
• Enhanced marketability

For occupants, BREEAM-certified buildings promote healthier and more comfortable environments, improving overall well-being. From an environmental perspective, these buildings use fewer resources, generate less waste, and reduce harmful emissions.

How BREEAM Certification Works: The Structure

BREEAM assesses buildings based on several sustainability criteria, with each category addressing a different aspect of a building’s performance:

• Energy: Evaluates energy efficiency, consumption, and carbon emissions, with a focus on renewable energy and reduced operational demand.
• Water: Assesses water management practices, including efficient usage and rainwater harvesting.
• Materials: Focuses on the environmental impact, sourcing, and lifecycle of construction materials.
• Waste: Measures efforts to minimize construction and operational waste through recycling and reuse.
• Health and Well-being: Evaluates factors like air quality, lighting, thermal comfort, and noise control.
• Transport: Assesses access to sustainable transportation options, including public transit and electric vehicle charging stations.
• Pollution: Focuses on reducing emissions, managing water run-off, and limiting light pollution.
• Land Use and Ecology: Promotes biodiversity and encourages eco-friendly land use.
• Management: Evaluates the efficiency of management practices during construction and operation.
• Innovation: Rewards projects that implement cutting-edge sustainable technologies and practices.

The BREEAM Certification Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Pre-Assessment:
   The project team conducts an initial evaluation of the building’s design and performance based on BREEAM criteria. This helps identify strengths and areas for improvement. A BREEAM Assessor may be appointed to guide this process.

2. Detailed Assessment:
   A more thorough analysis of the building’s design, materials, and operational plans follows. This involves site visits, documentation reviews, and evidence collection.

3. Scoring and Rating:
   Each category offers a set number of credits. The building’s rating depends on the percentage of credits achieved:

   • Pass: 30%
   • Good: 45%
   • Very Good: 55%
   • Excellent: 70%
   • Outstanding: 85%

4. Certification:
   Once the assessment is complete, a final score is awarded, and the building receives a BREEAM certificate, verifying its sustainability performance.

BREEAM Schemes for Different Building Types

BREEAM offers specialized schemes tailored to various project types and stages:

• BREEAM New Construction: For new buildings under design and construction.
• BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out: For upgrading existing buildings.
• BREEAM In-Use: Focuses on improving the operational performance of existing structures.
• BREEAM Communities: For planning sustainable large-scale developments.
• BREEAM Infrastructure (formerly CEEQUAL): For civil engineering and infrastructure projects.
• Global Reach of BREEAM

Although BREEAM originated in the UK, it has become a global certification standard. Adaptations exist for specific regions and countries, accommodating local regulations and environmental priorities. BREEAM-certified projects are now found in over 80 countries and are especially prevalent in Europe, where governments often require or encourage certification for new developments.

BREEAM vs. Other Green Building Certifications

BREEAM is frequently compared to other major certification systems like LEED and WELL:

• BREEAM: Focuses on a building’s entire lifecycle, management practices, and environmental impact.
• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): Prioritizes energy efficiency and carbon reduction, primarily used in North America.
• WELL: Specializes in enhancing occupant health and well-being.

Projects often pursue multiple certifications to address different sustainability and well-being objectives.

Benefits of BREEAM Certification

1. Environmental Impact:
   Certified buildings reduce resource consumption, lower carbon emissions, and support biodiversity protection.

2. Economic Value:
   BREEAM-certified buildings have lower operating costs and often receive tax incentives. They also have a higher market value due to their sustainability credentials.

3. Occupant Well-being:
   Enhanced air quality, natural lighting, and thermal comfort contribute to healthier indoor environments, boosting productivity and satisfaction.

4. Marketability and Reputation:
   Certification signals a commitment to sustainability, offering a competitive edge in markets where environmental performance is valued.

5. Resilience and Future-Proofing:
   BREEAM-certified buildings are better prepared for future changes in regulations, environmental conditions, and market demands.

BREEAM Consultancy: Navigating Certification Complexity

A BREEAM consultant provides expert guidance throughout the certification process. Their role includes:

• Assisting with sustainability strategies
• Ensuring compliance with assessment requirements
• Optimizing resource efficiency
• Facilitating communication between project stakeholders

By leveraging the expertise of a consultant, project teams can streamline the certification process, minimize costs, and maximize sustainability benefits.

Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future with BREEAM

BREEAM certification is a powerful tool for driving sustainability in the built environment. By setting high standards for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and occupant well-being, it fosters the development of environmentally responsible buildings.

Whether you’re a developer, investor, or building occupant, BREEAM certification offers tangible advantages—lower operational costs, healthier spaces, and greater market appeal. As global demand for sustainable development grows, BREEAM’s role in shaping the future of green buildings will become increasingly significant.