In the world of sustainable construction, securing a BREEAM certification is a milestone that signifies more than just environmental consciousness; it represents a commitment to excellence in building performance. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Emma Thompson, a seasoned sustainability consultant, to discuss the intricate journey from initial assessments to achieving BREEAM certification. Emma’s experiences shed light on the complexities and rewards of this rigorous process.
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Emma has been working in the field of sustainable construction for over a decade, helping numerous projects achieve their BREEAM certification. As we settled into our discussion, I could sense her passion for sustainability and her deep understanding of the BREEAM requirements.
“Securing a BREEAM certification goes beyond just recognition,” Emma began. “It’s about setting a benchmark for sustainability and ensuring that buildings not only meet but exceed environmental performance standards.”
The journey to BREEAM compliance starts with an initial assessment. “The first step is always a pre-assessment,” Emma explained. “This helps us understand where the project currently stands in terms of sustainability and what needs to be done to meet BREEAM standards.”
During this phase, Emma and her team conduct a detailed analysis of the building’s current performance. This involves evaluating various factors such as energy efficiency, water usage, waste management, and indoor environmental quality. “We use this information to create a roadmap for achieving BREEAM compliance,” she said.
One of the key aspects of BREEAM is its holistic approach to sustainability. “BREEAM looks at the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction to operation and maintenance,” Emma noted. “This means that every aspect of the building must be considered, from the materials used to the way it is managed.”
Emma highlighted the importance of collaboration in this process. “Achieving BREEAM certification is not something that can be done in isolation,” she stressed. “It requires a collaborative effort from everyone involved in the project, including architects, engineers, contractors, and building owners.”
One of the challenges Emma often faces is ensuring that all stakeholders are on the same page. “Communication is key,” she said. “Everyone needs to understand the BREEAM requirements and work together to achieve them.”
Emma recounted a particularly challenging project where clear communication and teamwork were crucial. “We were working on a large commercial building, and there were so many different teams involved,” she recalled. “We had to make sure that everyone was aware of their responsibilities and that we were all working towards the same goal.”
Despite the challenges, Emma finds the process incredibly rewarding. “There’s nothing quite like the feeling of achieving BREEAM certification,” she said. “It’s a testament to all the hard work and dedication that has gone into the project.”
Emma also emphasised the value of BREEAM certification for building owners. “It’s not just about meeting environmental standards,” she explained. “BREEAM certification can also lead to significant cost savings in the long run. More efficient buildings use less energy and water, which can reduce operating costs.”
Additionally, BREEAM-certified buildings often have higher market value and can attract more tenants. “Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to tenants and investors,” Emma noted. “Having a BREEAM certification can give a building a competitive edge in the market.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Emma offered some advice for those embarking on the journey to BREEAM compliance. “Start early and plan ahead,” she advised. “The earlier you start thinking about BREEAM requirements, the easier it will be to integrate them into the project.”
She also stressed the importance of working with experienced professionals. “Having the right team in place can make all the difference,” she said. “Look for consultants and contractors who have experience with BREEAM and understand what it takes to achieve certification.”
Emma’s insights provided a comprehensive overview of the BREEAM certification process, highlighting both the challenges and rewards. Her experience underscores the importance of careful planning, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability.
In a world where environmental performance is becoming increasingly important, BREEAM certification offers a valuable way for buildings to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. And with experts like Emma leading the way, the path to achieving this prestigious certification is well within reach.
Kenneth George
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