In an era where environmental sustainability has evolved from being an optional choice to an imperative necessity, Lucion is at the forefront of guiding clients through the complex terrain of sustainable building certification with BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). Recognised globally as the preeminent standard for evaluating the environmental performance of buildings, BREEAM serves as an indispensable instrument for any organisation dedicated to sustainability. Leading this transformation is Lucion, which offers an integrated suite of services that transcend mere compliance, aiming instead to cultivate a genuinely sustainable built environment.
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“Our mission is to support clients in achieving their sustainability goals by offering a full spectrum of BREEAM services,” states Jane Smith, Lucion’s Head of Sustainability. “From initial assessments to post-construction audits, we ensure that every project we handle meets the highest environmental standards.” Lucion’s team comprises licensed BREEAM assessors and sustainability experts who provide comprehensive assessment services throughout the design, construction, and post-construction stages. These professionals delve into the intricate details of each project, identifying sustainable design strategies, managing the assessment process, and compiling evidence to demonstrate compliance with BREEAM criteria. “We don’t just tick boxes; we delve deep to understand each project’s unique needs and challenges,” explains John Doe, a senior BREEAM assessor at Lucion. “This allows us to provide tailored solutions that not only meet but often exceed BREEAM requirements.”
Before any construction commences, Lucion conducts meticulous site appraisals. This involves desktop due diligence to highlight potential risks and opportunities, ensuring that projects start on the right trajectory. By identifying potential issues early, Lucion can implement strategies to address them proactively, thereby minimising additional design and construction costs incurred by the BREEAM process. “Our appraisals ensure your project starts on the right foot,” notes Smith. “By identifying potential issues early, we can implement strategies to address them proactively.” For property investors, Lucion offers comprehensive sustainability due diligence that extends beyond the BREEAM rating. This service provides profound insights into a building’s specific sustainability strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring that investors are placing their capital into projects that will endure both environmentally and economically. “Investors need to know they are putting their money into projects that will stand the test of time,” says Doe.
Lucion’s specialised services extend to BREEAM Green Leases, which benefit commercial landlords and tenants. Green clauses in tenancy agreements ensure that sustainability objectives are aligned between parties for new developments, fit-outs, and refurbishments. “Green leases are becoming increasingly important as more companies commit to sustainability goals,” says Smith. Additionally, Lucion’s BREEAM In-Use Auditing service collaborates with landlords and facilities managers to assess, benchmark, and enhance existing property stock. This service is invaluable for identifying opportunities for operational improvements and sustainability upgrades on both individual buildings and portfolio-wide scales. Lucion’s comprehensive service repertoire includes critical ecological assessments, wherein their team evaluates the current ecological value of sites, minimises impacts during site preparation and construction, and enhances biodiversity post-construction. They also prepare Habitat and Landscape Management Plans and act as Ecological Clerk of Works, ensuring that ecological considerations are seamlessly integrated into the building process. “Our ecology services are another cornerstone of our offering,” adds Doe.
Acoustics is another specialised area where Lucion excels, ensuring that projects meet BREEAM criteria related to noise control, sound insulation, and indoor acoustic comfort. “Good acoustic design is crucial for creating healthy, comfortable indoor environments,” says Smith. Lucion provides assessment, design advice, and testing services to optimise the acoustic performance of buildings. The drive towards sustainable building practices is propelled by both regulatory requirements and market demand. Governments worldwide are enforcing stricter building codes and offering incentives for sustainable construction. Concurrently, consumers and tenants are increasingly becoming environmentally conscious, driving demand for buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also offer healthier and more comfortable living and working environments. “Achieving BREEAM certification is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s also about creating value for stakeholders,” says Smith. “A BREEAM-certified building is more attractive to investors, tenants, and buyers, and it can command higher rents and sale prices.”
BREEAM’s comprehensive scope, encompassing everything from energy efficiency to ecology and acoustics, makes it a robust framework for assessing and improving the environmental performance of buildings. “It’s a holistic approach that considers the building’s entire lifecycle, from design and construction to operation and maintenance,” notes Doe. As climate change continues to present significant challenges, the role of BREEAM and similar certification systems is poised to become even more crucial. The construction industry will need to adopt more sustainable practices to mitigate its environmental impact. “We expect to see more stringent regulations and higher expectations from stakeholders in the coming years,” says Smith. Technological advancements will also play a pivotal role in the future of sustainable building certification. Innovations in materials, construction techniques, and building management systems will present new opportunities to enhance the environmental performance of buildings. “The integration of smart technologies will allow for more accurate monitoring and management of building performance, enabling continuous improvement,” adds Doe.
Furthermore, as the emphasis on sustainability intensifies, the scope of BREEAM and similar systems may expand to encompass new areas such as social sustainability and resilience. “It’s an evolving field, and we are committed to staying at the forefront of these developments,” concludes Smith.
Lucion’s comprehensive BREEAM services offer a robust framework for achieving and maintaining high standards of environmental performance in the built environment. As the significance of sustainability continues to escalate, these services will be invaluable in assisting organisations to meet their sustainability objectives and create enduring value for stakeholders. Through meticulous site appraisals, bespoke design strategies, and specialised services, Lucion ensures that each project not only meets but frequently surpasses the stringent requirements of BREEAM, championing a future where sustainable building practices are the norm rather than the exception.
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