As someone who has spent years exploring the intricacies of sustainable building practices, I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Emma Williams, a seasoned sustainability consultant who has worked extensively with BREEAM, LEED®, and DGNB standards. Emma’s insights offered a comprehensive look at the process of certifying both new and existing buildings to meet these rigorous sustainability benchmarks.
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Emma’s journey into sustainability began a decade ago when she transitioned from traditional architectural roles to focus on green building certification. “It was a natural progression for me,” she explained. “I wanted to be part of the solution to the environmental challenges we face.”
Purchase & Sale
As Emma elaborated, one of the initial steps in the process involves the purchase and sale of property. “When a client is looking to buy or sell a building, the first thing we do is conduct a thorough assessment to understand the building’s current sustainability status,” she noted. This involves evaluating various elements such as energy efficiency, water usage, and material sustainability.
Emma emphasised the importance of a comprehensive initial assessment. “It’s not just about ticking boxes,” she said. “We delve deep into the building’s operational data, historical energy consumption, and even the type of materials used in construction.”
Examination According to BREEAM, LEED® or DGNB
The next step is to determine which certification process is most suitable for the building in question. Each standard has its own set of criteria and areas of focus. “BREEAM is very popular in Europe, particularly in the UK, while LEED® is widely recognised in the United States,” Emma explained. “DGNB is gaining traction, especially in Germany and other parts of Europe, due to its holistic approach.”
Emma highlighted how each certification system requires a different method of examination. “For BREEAM, we focus a lot on lifecycle assessments and the ecology of the building. LEED® places a strong emphasis on energy performance and indoor environmental quality. DGNB, on the other hand, evaluates a broad spectrum of sustainability aspects, including socio-cultural and economic quality.”
Creation of an Initial Specification for the Certification Process
Creating an initial specification is a critical part of the certification journey. “This step is all about setting clear goals and establishing a roadmap,” Emma said. “We outline the specific requirements that need to be met for the chosen certification and identify potential challenges.”
Emma stressed the importance of collaboration during this phase. “We work closely with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure everyone is on the same page. Clear communication is vital to avoid any misunderstandings that could delay the project.”
Presentation of the Initial Specification
Once the initial specification is created, it’s time to present it to the stakeholders. “This is where we get everyone in the same room,” Emma said with a smile. “We present our findings and the proposed roadmap. It’s a collaborative effort; we value input from all parties involved.”
Emma recounted a particularly memorable presentation. “We were working on a large office building in central London. The client was keen on achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating. During our presentation, we discussed the need for high-performance glazing and renewable energy sources. It was gratifying to see the client’s enthusiasm and willingness to invest in sustainable solutions.”
Continuous Comparison and Adjustments
The journey doesn’t end with the initial presentation. “Sustainability is a continuous process,” Emma emphasised. “We regularly compare planning and construction decisions with the sustainability concept to ensure we’re on track.”
Emma described how they use key tools such as life cycle assessments and decarbonisation analyses throughout the entire construction and refurbishment process. “These tools are invaluable,” she noted. “They help us make informed decisions and adjust our strategies as needed.”
The Role of Conscious Material Decisions
One of the most significant factors in achieving sustainability certification is the choice of materials. “We always advocate for materials that contribute to the building’s circularity,” Emma explained. “This means selecting materials that are recyclable, sustainable, and have a low environmental impact.”
Emma shared an example from a recent project. “We were refurbishing an old industrial building. The original materials were not environmentally friendly, so we opted for recycled steel and reclaimed wood. These choices significantly reduced the building’s carbon footprint.”
Final Thoughts
As our conversation drew to a close, Emma reflected on the importance of sustainability in the built environment. “It’s not just about meeting certification standards,” she said. “It’s about creating buildings that are better for the environment and for the people who use them.”
Emma’s insights painted a clear picture of the complexities and rewards of the certification process. Her passion for sustainability was evident throughout our discussion, and it was inspiring to see how dedicated professionals like her are making a tangible difference in the world of architecture and construction.
Kenneth George
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