In the world of sustainable building certifications, two acronyms often emerge as titans: BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Both serve as frameworks to assess and improve the environmental performance of buildings, yet their approaches can feel worlds apart. To better understand the nuances between these two systems, I sat down with Emily Harrington, a seasoned sustainability consultant who has navigated both BREEAM and LEED certifications for numerous projects across Europe and North America.
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Emily’s experience with sustainable building standards is extensive, having worked on a variety of projects ranging from commercial office spaces to educational institutions. Her most recent involvement was with the deep energy retrofit of the Tom Johnson House in Dublin, a project that promises to set a new benchmark for sustainable building transformation in Ireland.
“As someone who’s worked across both BREEAM and LEED landscapes, I often get asked which one is ‘better’,” Emily begins with a light chuckle. “The truth is, it’s not about which is superior; it’s about which one aligns best with the project’s goals and regional requirements.”
A critical aspect of both systems is their impact on human health and the environment. Buildings consume vast amounts of energy, water, and natural resources, and they can also be significant sources of waste and emissions. Emily explains how both BREEAM and LEED aim to tackle these issues but through slightly different lenses.
“BREEAM, being UK-originated, tends to be more prescriptive and process-oriented,” Emily notes. “It has a strong focus on the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction to operation and maintenance. It’s meticulous, which can sometimes feel rigorous, but it ensures no stone is left unturned.”
In contrast, LEED, which hails from the United States, offers a more flexible framework. “LEED is points-based and allows for a bit more creativity in achieving certification,” Emily says. “It encourages innovation and can sometimes feel more accessible because of its broad applicability across different types of projects.”
One of the key areas where these systems directly impact human health is in their approach to indoor environmental quality. Emily shares an anecdote from a recent project where achieving optimal indoor air quality was paramount. “With BREEAM, there was a detailed checklist ensuring that everything from ventilation rates to material off-gassing was meticulously scrutinised,” she recalls. “LEED, on the other hand, allowed us to explore innovative solutions like incorporating more biophilic design elements, which not only improved air quality but also enhanced occupant well-being.”
Water efficiency is another critical component. “BREEAM places a significant emphasis on water management, encouraging rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling,” Emily explains. “LEED also prioritises water conservation but does so more through the integration of efficient fixtures and smart landscaping practices.”
When it comes to energy, both systems are robust, yet again, their strategies differ slightly. “Energy efficiency is a pillar for both BREEAM and LEED, but BREEAM often requires more detailed energy modelling and performance verification,” Emily notes. “LEED, while equally focused on energy, often incentivises renewable energy use and innovative energy-saving solutions.”
Emily also highlights how both systems address the reduction of waste and emissions. “BREEAM is quite stringent about waste management plans and the reduction of construction waste,” she says. “LEED, while also focused on waste, places a greater emphasis on the sourcing of materials, promoting the use of regionally sourced and recycled materials to minimise emissions from transport.”
Despite these differences, Emily is quick to point out that the ultimate goal of both systems is to minimise the environmental footprint of buildings and improve occupant health. “At the end of the day, whether it’s BREEAM or LEED, it’s about creating spaces that are not only efficient but also conducive to the health and well-being of the people who use them,” she asserts.
As our conversation draws to a close, Emily reflects on her journey with these certifications. “Both BREEAM and LEED have their strengths and challenges, and often, the choice comes down to the specific needs of the project and its location,” she concludes. “For instance, the Tom Johnson House, being in Ireland, naturally aligned with BREEAM, but we’ve also incorporated some LEED-inspired practices to enhance its sustainability profile.”
Her insights serve as a reminder that while the acronyms and methodologies may differ, the underlying mission remains the same: to create a built environment that is both sustainable and supportive of human health. As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, the role of these certification systems becomes ever more critical in guiding us towards a greener future.
Marcia Snyder
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