When it comes to the intricate world of environmental certification, navigating through the myriad of standards and assessments can be a daunting task. I had the chance to sit down with Emma Turner, an experienced urban planner, who offered a first-hand account of how BREEAM Communities assessments are instrumental in supporting BREEAM assessments of individual buildings within a neighbourhood.
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Emma Turner has been with GreenCity Planning for over a decade, and her insights into the BREEAM Communities assessment process are both enlightening and practical. Here is a recount of our conversation.
The Beginning of a Sustainable Journey
“Our journey with BREEAM Communities began when we undertook a large-scale urban development project in the outskirts of London,” Emma recalled. “The project aimed to transform a neglected industrial area into a thriving, sustainable neighbourhood. From the outset, we knew that achieving BREEAM certification for individual buildings was a priority, but we quickly realised that starting with a BREEAM Communities assessment was crucial.”
A Coordinated Effort
Emma explained that BREEAM Communities focuses on the design and planning stages of a neighbourhood, evaluating factors such as consultation, green and open spaces, transportation, ecology, energy use, pollution, health and wellbeing, land use, and waste and stormwater management.
“One of the first steps we took was to engage with the local community. BREEAM Communities places a strong emphasis on consultation, and we wanted to ensure that the voices of local residents and stakeholders were heard. This not only helped us align our plans with the needs of the community but also built a sense of ownership and pride among residents,” she said.
Integration of Green Spaces and Transportation
Emma highlighted the importance of green and open spaces in the planning process. “We designed the neighbourhood to include numerous parks, community gardens, and pedestrian pathways. These spaces not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the overall wellbeing of residents. Additionally, we prioritised sustainable transportation options, such as cycling lanes and electric vehicle charging stations, to reduce the neighbourhood’s carbon footprint.”
Ecology and Energy Use
The ecological aspect of the BREEAM Communities assessment was another critical component. “We conducted a thorough ecological survey to identify existing wildlife habitats and implemented measures to protect and enhance biodiversity. This included planting native species, creating green roofs, and installing bird and bat boxes,” Emma explained.
Energy use was another focal point. “We designed the buildings to be highly energy-efficient, incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar panels and ground-source heat pumps. By starting with a BREEAM Communities assessment, we were able to ensure that the entire neighbourhood’s energy infrastructure was robust and sustainable.”
Pollution, Health, and Wellbeing
Emma elaborated on the efforts to minimise pollution and promote health and wellbeing. “We implemented measures to reduce noise and air pollution, such as using low-emission construction equipment and creating buffer zones with dense vegetation. Additionally, we focused on creating a health-conscious environment by including facilities like outdoor gyms, walking trails, and community centres.”
Land Use and Waste Management
Effective land use and waste management were also key considerations. “We carefully planned the land use to balance residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This holistic approach ensured that the neighbourhood was both functional and vibrant. For waste management, we set up comprehensive recycling programmes and designed buildings with waste segregation systems,” she said.
The Interconnectedness of BREEAM Assessments
One of the most significant insights Emma shared was how the BREEAM Communities assessment supported the BREEAM assessment of individual buildings. “By addressing sustainability at the neighbourhood level, we created a strong foundation for the certification of individual buildings. The principles and practices we implemented during the community assessment naturally extended to the building assessments.”
“For example, the energy-efficient infrastructure we established for the neighbourhood made it easier for individual buildings to meet BREEAM’s energy criteria. Similarly, the focus on green spaces and transportation at the community level complemented the health and wellbeing requirements for individual buildings.”
Challenges and Rewards
Emma acknowledged that the process was not without its challenges. “Coordinating such a large-scale project required meticulous planning and collaboration among various stakeholders. However, the rewards were well worth the effort. Achieving BREEAM Communities certification not only enhanced the neighbourhood’s sustainability but also increased its market value and attractiveness to potential residents.”
A Blueprint for the Future
In closing, Emma expressed her optimism for the future of sustainable urban development. “BREEAM Communities provides a comprehensive framework that guides planners and developers in creating environmentally friendly and socially responsible neighbourhoods. By starting at the community level, we can ensure that individual buildings are part of a cohesive and sustainable whole.”
Her experiences underscore the importance of a holistic approach to environmental certification. As urban areas continue to grow and evolve, frameworks like BREEAM Communities will play a crucial role in shaping sustainable and resilient neighbourhoods.
John Williams
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