BREEAM, or the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, has cemented its place as a seminal framework in the pursuit of sustainable building and infrastructure. Central to the efficacy of BREEAM assessments is the BREEAM Knowledge Base (KBCN), a meticulously curated repository of guidance and compliance notes aimed at simplifying the application and comprehension of BREEAM standards. This article explores the multifaceted dimensions of the BREEAM Knowledge Base, highlighting its recent updates and the instrumental tools it offers to advance sustainable development.
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A noteworthy enhancement in the BREEAM Knowledge Base is the incorporation of language customisation, offering options in both US English and UK English. This bifurcation is not merely cosmetic; it tailors the navigation and content to align with the specific BREEAM programmes and operational nuances pertinent to the chosen region. For instance, selecting US English restricts the navigation to Knowledge Base Compliance Notes (KBCNs) relevant to BREEAM programmes in the United States, while opting for UK English reveals entries applicable to BREEAM initiatives in the UK and other regions. This feature is indispensable for ensuring that users access the most pertinent and region-specific information, thereby enhancing the utility and efficacy of the Knowledge Base.
An important update within the BREEAM Knowledge Base is the release of the latest version of PAS 2080 in April 2023. PAS 2080:2023 supersedes its predecessor, PAS 2080:2016, and remains a critical tool for BREEAM Infrastructure assessments. The updated version maintains references to specific clause numbers for claims of conformity, which are retained within Clause 12 of PAS 2080. This update is crucial for professionals engaged in carbon management within buildings and infrastructure, providing them with the latest standards and practices. The updated version is available for download from the British Standards Institution (BSI), accompanied by an updated guidance document from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).
The BREEAM Knowledge Base also incorporates the CLIMB Model, specifically CLIMB Model 1.2, designed for calculating the percentage improvement in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). Recognised by BREEAM as a compliance mechanism for BREEAM Infrastructure Issue 4.4, the CLIMB Model offers an alternative to the DEFRA Metric or BREEAM LUE calculator. It employs variables such as Natural Value, Landscape Value, Difficulty Factor, and Time Factor to assess the percentage improvement in BNG. Credits awarded for BREEAM Infrastructure based on this model range from 0 to 40, contingent on the improvement percentage achieved. It is pertinent to note that CLIMB units for offsite enhancements are not recognised by BREEAM Infrastructure, underscoring the emphasis on onsite ecological enhancements.
Furthermore, the BREEAM Knowledge Base accentuates the applicability of various offline (Excel) spreadsheet tools for BREEAM International New Construction 2016 assessments using BREEAM INC V6. These tools encompass calculators for transport (Tra 01), water (Wat 01), materials (Mat 01 and Mat 03), and pollution (Pol 01). The references for these tools are slated for imminent updates to ensure their continued relevance and efficacy in current assessments. These tools are imperative for professionals carrying out BREEAM assessments, offering a structured and standardised approach to evaluating diverse aspects of sustainability.
In essence, the BREEAM Knowledge Base stands as an invaluable asset for professionals dedicated to sustainable building and infrastructure. The recent updates and comprehensive guidance it provides ensure that users have access to the most current and relevant information. Whether it’s the language customisation, updates to PAS 2080, the CLIMB Model for ecological enhancement, or the assessment tools for BREEAM INC V6, the Knowledge Base continues to bolster and refine the application of BREEAM standards. As sustainability becomes ever more critical in the construction and infrastructure sectors, resources like the BREEAM Knowledge Base are pivotal in steering and facilitating best practices.
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