In the contemporary era, where climate change and environmental degradation are among the most pressing global concerns, the construction industry has a crucial role in driving sustainability. One of the most esteemed frameworks for assessing and certifying the sustainability of buildings is BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). Since its inception in 1990, BREEAM has been at the forefront of promoting the construction of environmentally responsible and resource-efficient buildings. This article explores the nuances of BREEAM, its categories, the certification process, and the manifold benefits it offers.
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BREEAM is a globally acknowledged certification scheme developed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in the United Kingdom. It provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of buildings, infrastructure, and communities. BREEAM’s holistic methodology takes into account various factors, including energy efficiency, water usage, pollution reduction, and the health and well-being of occupants throughout the entire lifecycle of a building.
The BREEAM assessment is structured around several categories, each addressing a specific aspect of sustainability. The ‘Energy’ category focuses on reducing operational energy consumption by encouraging the use of energy-efficient systems, renewable energy sources, and smart technologies to minimise carbon emissions. ‘Land Use and Ecology’ assesses the impact of a building on its surrounding environment, advocating sustainable land use practices, biodiversity conservation, and the creation of green spaces. Efficient water management is crucial, and the ‘Water’ category evaluates water consumption, promotes the use of water-saving fixtures, and encourages rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling.
Pollution control is another critical area, with the ‘Pollution’ category addressing various forms of pollution, including air, water, noise, and light pollution. It encourages measures to minimise the environmental impact of construction activities. The ‘Transport’ category promotes the use of sustainable transport options, evaluating the accessibility of public transport, cycling facilities, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to reduce carbon emissions from transportation. The choice of construction materials significantly impacts sustainability, and the ‘Materials’ category assesses the environmental impact of materials, including their sourcing, production, and disposal.
Waste management is a vital aspect of sustainable construction, and the ‘Waste’ category encourages waste reduction, recycling, and responsible disposal practices to minimise landfill waste. Effective management practices are essential for achieving sustainability goals, and the ‘Management’ category evaluates the management policies, energy management, and stakeholder engagement of a building project. The ‘Health and Wellbeing’ category underscores the importance of occupant health and well-being, assessing factors such as indoor air quality, natural lighting, thermal comfort, and acoustic performance to create a healthy and comfortable indoor environment. Finally, the ‘Innovation’ category provides an opportunity for projects to showcase innovative and exemplary sustainable solutions that surpass the standard requirements of other categories.
The BREEAM certification process is meticulous and involves several steps. Initially, it is crucial to choose the appropriate scheme tailored to different building types and project stages, such as New Construction, In-Use, Refurbishment & Fit-Out, Communities, and Infrastructure. Following this, appointing a qualified BREEAM assessor is essential to guide the project through the assessment process and ensure compliance with BREEAM requirements. The project must then be registered on the BREEAM website, followed by conducting the BREEAM assessment, which involves completing questionnaires and providing evidence to demonstrate compliance with BREEAM criteria. Finally, the assessor evaluates the project, providing a benchmarked percentage score and an overall BREEAM rating, ranging from Unclassified to Outstanding, based on the level of environmental performance achieved.
The validity of BREEAM certification varies depending on the scheme and certification level. For New Construction, certification is valid for three years from the date of issue. For In-Use, it is valid for one year from the date of issue, while for Refurbishment and Fit-Out, the certification is valid for the design and construction phase, becoming fixed upon project completion.
BREEAM certification offers numerous benefits for building owners, occupants, and the environment. BREEAM-certified buildings meet stringent energy efficiency standards, leading to reduced energy consumption and operational costs. The certification is recognised as a mark of excellence, enhancing the asset value and attractiveness of certified buildings. BREEAM standards ensure improved indoor air quality, natural lighting, and access to outdoor spaces, thereby enhancing occupant comfort and health. Moreover, BREEAM certification aids building owners in complying with environmental regulations and sustainability requirements, and it encourages innovative solutions that future-proof buildings, ensuring long-term environmental responsibility.
BREEAM has revolutionised the construction industry by providing a robust framework for assessing and certifying the sustainability of buildings. Its holistic approach, performance-based assessment, and third-party certification ensure that BREEAM-certified projects meet the highest standards of environmental, social, and economic sustainability. As global priorities increasingly focus on sustainability, BREEAM certification stands as a testament to the commitment of building owners, developers, and occupants to creating a greener and more resilient built environment. By embracing BREEAM principles, we can pave the way for a sustainable future and contribute meaningfully to the global effort to combat climate change and protect our planet.
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