In the realm of sustainable construction and environmental certifications, BREEAM stands out as a benchmark. To unpack the importance of this certification and the role of accredited BREEAM Advisory Professionals (APs), I had the opportunity to speak with Emma Thompson, a seasoned BREEAM AP with over a decade of experience in the field. My conversation with Emma shed light on the intricacies and significance of BREEAM, as well as the invaluable services provided by BREEAM APs.
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When I met Emma at her office, she greeted me with a warm smile and an enthusiasm that was palpable. Her passion for sustainability was evident from the get-go. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity,” she began, setting the tone for our interview.
Understanding BREEAM
BREEAM, which stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, is a globally recognised environmental certification method for buildings. “BREEAM is the leading environmental certification method for the built environment,” Emma explained. “It provides a framework to assess and certify the sustainability of buildings, both new and existing.”
She went on to detail how BREEAM assesses a building’s performance in a variety of categories, such as energy, water, health and wellbeing, pollution, transport, materials, waste, ecology, and management processes. “Each category is meticulously evaluated, and points are awarded based on performance. The total score determines the building’s BREEAM rating, which can range from Pass to Outstanding,” she elaborated.
The Role of a BREEAM AP
As we delved deeper into the conversation, Emma highlighted the critical role of a BREEAM Accredited Professional. “We provide accredited BREEAM AP advisory services to clients in support of their projects,” she said. “Our role is to guide and support project teams to achieve the best possible BREEAM rating for their buildings.”
Emma emphasised that the involvement of a BREEAM AP from the early stages of a project is crucial. “We work closely with architects, engineers, and developers to integrate sustainability into the design and construction process right from the start. This proactive approach ensures that sustainable practices are embedded in every aspect of the project.”
The Journey to Becoming a BREEAM AP
Curious about her journey, I asked Emma how she became a BREEAM AP. She recounted her early career as an architect, where her interest in sustainable design first took root. “I realised that the built environment has a significant impact on our planet, and I wanted to be part of the solution,” she said.
Emma pursued additional training and certification to become a BREEAM AP. “It was a rigorous process, but incredibly rewarding,” she reflected. “The certification involves a thorough understanding of BREEAM criteria and the ability to apply them effectively in real-world projects.”
Challenges and Rewards
Emma candidly shared some of the challenges she faces in her role. “One of the main challenges is balancing sustainability with budget constraints. Clients often have tight budgets, and it’s our job to find cost-effective solutions that still meet BREEAM standards,” she noted.
Despite these challenges, Emma finds her work immensely rewarding. “Seeing a project achieve a high BREEAM rating is incredibly satisfying. It means we’ve made a positive impact on the environment and created a healthier, more sustainable space for people to live and work in.”
The Future of BREEAM
Looking ahead, Emma is optimistic about the future of BREEAM and environmental certification as a whole. “Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. More clients are recognising the value of BREEAM certification, not just for the environmental benefits, but also for the long-term economic advantages,” she observed.
She also mentioned that BREEAM is continuously evolving to address emerging environmental challenges. “The criteria are regularly updated to reflect the latest research and best practices. This ensures that BREEAM remains at the forefront of sustainable building certification.”
Conclusion
My conversation with Emma Thompson provided a comprehensive insight into the world of BREEAM and the essential role of accredited BREEAM APs. It’s clear that achieving BREEAM certification is a complex but worthwhile endeavour, requiring the expertise and dedication of professionals like Emma. Her passion for sustainability and commitment to excellence are truly inspiring.
For those considering a BREEAM certification for their projects, Emma’s advice is to engage with a BREEAM AP early in the process. “It’s about creating a collaborative environment where sustainability is a shared goal,” she affirmed.
As we concluded our interview, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of optimism for the future of sustainable construction. With experts like Emma leading the way, the built environment is on a promising path towards greater environmental responsibility and resilience.
Lewis Davis
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