In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have become critical benchmarks for success. For many property investors, owners, and managers, understanding and implementing these benchmarks can be a daunting task. To shed light on this subject, I sat down with Emily Thompson, a seasoned property manager, to discuss her experience with BREEAM In Use certification. Our conversation provided valuable insights into how this accreditation can drive sustainable improvements in existing buildings.
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Emily, who manages a diverse portfolio of commercial properties, began by explaining the impetus for pursuing BREEAM In Use certification. “Sustainability has become a key focus for us, not just from an ethical standpoint but also for maintaining the market value of our properties,” she noted. “BREEAM In Use stood out because it’s specifically tailored for existing structures, which are often more challenging to retrofit sustainably.”
One of the main attractions of BREEAM In Use, Emily highlighted, is its comprehensive approach. The certification evaluates various elements, including energy and water use, management processes, transport, and health and wellbeing. “It’s not just about ticking boxes,” she said. “The assessment dives into every aspect of the building’s operations, which really helps us see where we stand and where we need to improve.”
Emily described the certification process as thorough and enlightening. “It all starts with an assessor,” she explained. “The assessor plays a pivotal role, gathering evidence and evaluating our practices against BREEAM’s standards. It’s an independent assessment, which means we get objective feedback on our performance.”
The process, according to Emily, is not just about identifying weaknesses but also recognising strengths. “We discovered areas where we were already doing well, like in our waste management practices,” she said with a smile. “But it also highlighted opportunities for improvement, particularly in energy efficiency and resource management.”
One of the challenges Emily faced was the initial workload. “There’s a lot of groundwork to do,” she admitted. “Compiling documentation, gathering data, and ensuring compliance with all the criteria can be time-consuming. It requires a dedicated team effort.”
However, she emphasised that the benefits far outweigh the initial effort. “Once you have your certification, it serves as a powerful benchmark,” Emily said. “It’s not just a badge; it’s a tool that guides us in making sustainable choices. It also adds value to our properties, making them more attractive to investors and tenants who are increasingly prioritising ESG factors.”
Emily shared an interesting insight into how BREEAM In Use has influenced tenant relationships. “Our tenants appreciate the transparency and commitment to sustainability,” she said. “It fosters a sense of trust and engagement. Some of them have even started their own sustainability initiatives inspired by our practices.”
Another significant advantage Emily mentioned is the alignment with broader ESG goals. “BREEAM In Use certification aligns well with other benchmarks like GRESB and ISO 14001,” she explained. “This alignment streamlines our reporting processes and helps us stay ahead of regulatory requirements. It also positions us well for future sustainability challenges.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Emily reflected on the broader implications of achieving BREEAM In Use certification. “It’s not just about meeting today’s standards,” she said thoughtfully. “It’s about future-proofing our assets and contributing to a more sustainable built environment. It’s a continuous journey, and BREEAM In Use gives us the roadmap.”
Emily’s experience with BREEAM In Use offers a clear illustration of how such accreditations can serve as catalysts for meaningful change in the real estate sector. For those just starting on their ESG journey, her advice is simple yet profound: “Start with a clear vision of what you want to achieve, and be prepared to learn and adapt along the way. The results can be transformative.”
As the real estate industry continues to embrace sustainability, certifications like BREEAM In Use provide invaluable frameworks for achieving and exceeding ESG goals. Emily’s journey underscores the potential for these standards to not only enhance operational performance but also foster a culture of sustainability that benefits all stakeholders.
John Williams
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