I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Fiona Clarke, a seasoned project manager specialising in Refurbishment and Fit-Out projects, to discuss the pivotal role of Accredited Professionals (APs) in steering developments towards outstanding BREEAM and sustainability performance. Fiona’s insights illuminated how early and continuous involvement of an AP can significantly enhance the sustainability credentials of a project.
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The Importance of Early Involvement
“As soon as we get the green light on a project, one of our first steps is to bring an AP on board,” Fiona began. “Their expertise is crucial from the outset because they help us set realistic and ambitious sustainability goals.”
According to Fiona, the earlier an AP is involved, the better. “Having an AP involved from the initial design stages allows us to integrate sustainability into the very fabric of the project. They help us identify opportunities for energy efficiency, resource management, and overall environmental impact reduction that might not be apparent to the untrained eye.”
Steering the Project with Expertise
One of the most valuable contributions of an AP is their ability to navigate the complex and evolving landscape of BREEAM standards. Fiona shared, “The BREEAM criteria can be quite detailed and sometimes challenging to interpret. An AP knows these standards inside and out, helping us to make informed decisions that align with our sustainability objectives.”
For instance, the choice and management of materials are critical aspects of any refurbishment and fit-out project. “APs guide us in selecting materials that are not only sustainable but also compliant with BREEAM requirements,” Fiona explained. “They ensure that we meet the criteria for responsible sourcing and help us navigate the nuances of recycled and secondary aggregates usage.”
Maximising Credits and Performance
Fiona highlighted a recent project where the involvement of an AP made a significant impact. “We were working on a large office refurbishment, and our AP helped us achieve an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. They identified several key areas where we could earn additional credits, such as enhancing the building’s energy metering systems and improving the indoor environmental quality.”
One of the strategies recommended by the AP was the use of advanced energy metering systems. “Our AP advised us to install sub-metering by floor plate, which, although not initially planned, provided a more granular and useful level of detail for building management. This allowed us to monitor and manage energy use more effectively, leading to significant energy savings.”
Adapting to Climate Change
Another critical area where APs provide invaluable guidance is in adapting projects to future climate conditions. Fiona mentioned, “Our AP helped us incorporate climate resilience into the project. They recommended using the most up-to-date weather files for thermal modelling, ensuring that our building would perform well even under future climate scenarios.”
These weather files, such as those for the 2020s and 2050s, are essential for accurate thermal comfort modelling. “Using the correct files helps us design HVAC systems that are not only efficient for today’s climate but are also resilient to future changes. This foresight is crucial for long-term sustainability,” Fiona elaborated.
Enhancing Site Ecology
Fiona also touched on the ecological aspects of their projects. “APs play a vital role in enhancing site ecology. They work with ecologists to ensure that our developments not only minimise ecological impact but actively enhance biodiversity.”
For a recent project, the AP collaborated with the ecologist to implement a comprehensive plan for enhancing site ecology. “We created green roofs, installed bird boxes, and implemented a robust landscaping plan that included native species. These efforts not only earned us valuable BREEAM credits but also contributed to the overall well-being of the local ecosystem.”
A Collaborative Effort
Fiona emphasised that achieving high BREEAM and sustainability performance is a collaborative effort. “It’s not just about having an AP on board; it’s about integrating their advice into every aspect of the project. From architects and engineers to contractors and facility managers, everyone has to be on the same page.”
She concluded, “The role of an AP is indispensable. Their expertise in BREEAM and sustainability steers the project towards achieving its full potential. By involving them from the outset, we ensure that our developments are not only compliant but exemplary in their sustainability performance.”
In summary, Fiona Clarke’s experience underscores the critical role of Accredited Professionals in refurbishment and fit-out projects. Their early and continuous involvement can significantly enhance a project’s BREEAM and sustainability performance, making them an invaluable asset to any development team.
Lewis Davis
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