BREEAM is a well-known green building standard that was first created in the UK by the Building Research Establishment (BRE). Energy efficiency is one of the numerous environmental aspects considered by the Breeam assessment rating system. Since 1990, more than a million structures have registered for evaluation, and more than 250,000 buildings have received a BREEAM assessment certificate.
What Are The Requirements?
The following are among the categories and criteria that BREEAM assessors consider:
- Environmental
- Waste
- Pollution
- Energy Management
- Water usage
- Well-being
- Health
- Effectiveness
- Resources
- Carry
BREEAM assessors will assign building “credits,” or points, on each of those categories based on the previously listed criteria. These points are then multiplied by the environmental balancing factor. A building is assigned a BREEAM rating when the total score is calculated by summing the results for each category.
A Breeam Assessment: What Is It?
The environmental performance of a building is certified by a BREEAM Assessment. One of the most popular sustainability rating systems was created by the Building Research Establishment. It lowers expenses while assisting owners and designers in enhancing a building’s functionality and efficiency. The evaluation is carried out by an impartial third party and is founded on stringent scientific requirements.
BREEAM Certifications
A BREEAM certification is determined by the project’s evaluation rating. The rating is the sum of the scores obtained in the aforementioned categories as compared to benchmarks and the BREEAM standard. The rating guarantees the project’s performance as well as environmental responsibility and is in line with the degree of conformity to the BREEAM standard.
BREEAM Standard Schemes
At first, there was just one scheme for all projects and the BREEAM standard applied solely to new buildings. Currently, several systems provide built environment-specific criteria. By use of these programs, BRE has effectively extended the application of the BREEAM standard across the whole building or infrastructure undertaking lifecycle. These guidelines support contemporary sustainability technology and are quite adaptable. Additionally, BRE updates the schemes regularly and solicits input from industry stakeholders.
The four primary BREEAM schemes, along with the international system utilized for projects outside of the UK, are as follows:
New Construction Using BREEAM
Guidelines for new, structures that are not residential are provided by the BREEAM New Construction standard. It can be used by architects and developers at all important phases of development, such as design, purchasing, and construction.
BREEAM Renovation
The goal of the BREEAM Refurbishment standard is to enhance the sustainability and ecological performance of housing and non-residential structures via renovation. It can be applied to enhance the interior, exterior envelope, or structure of an asset.
Utilising BREEAM
The main users of the BREEAM In-Use scheme are building managers, owners, especially investors who can use it to enhance an existing building’s environmental credentials. Building assets alongside construction management are the two components of the plan.
BREEAM Groups
A program for master planning environmentally friendly neighbourhoods is called BREEAM Communities. It offers a framework for building a contemporary society that takes into account both the environment and how people are affected by it.
International New Construction BREEAM
Except for residential structures, BREEAM international relations. New Construction is comparable to its new construction scheme. Buildings built outside of the UK as well as any other nation having a local BREEAM scheme operator are eligible for this program.
BREEAM Certifications
When compared to the BREEAM standard overall its benchmarks, a project’s and its stakeholders’ performance is reflected in a BREEAM certified rating. The grading ensures the asset’s performance, quality, and worth and makes it possible to compare projects.
A succession of stars on the BREEAM certificate represent the various BREEAM grades, which range from Acceptable (In-Use scheme only) to Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and Outstanding. To confirm an evaluation and its BREEAM grade, always seek to obtain the BREEAM certificate as well as the certification symbol. Using our listings, you can also look for certified assessments.
What Makes BREEAM Crucial?
With up to 70% of local authorities in UK cities demanding a BREEAM certification, BREEAM is becoming more and more significant for a variety of reasons that impact the construction and development of buildings. This implies that developers, as well as property owners, may be prohibited from completing building projects if BREEAM criteria are not followed:
- All public projects must now go through an environmental evaluation as part of the government’s infrastructure strategy to receive an Excellent BREEAM rating.
- Every year, there is a growing need for environmentally friendly structures. Therefore, ensuring that an establishment or development has a high BREEAM rating can increase the value and appeal of a commercial property.
- Because it is desirable to buy houses that satisfy BREEAM criteria, BREEAM can assist in accelerating sales.
- It can help landlords save money on renovations since BREEAM assessments take into account things like energy-efficient lighting, water-efficient components, and efficient heating systems, which cut operating costs for properties.
Final Words:
The effects of BREEAM’s actions on the environment over time make it significant as well. Enhancing the ecosystem for local species, reducing building waste, and figuring out ways to lower CO2 emissions have all benefited from increased attention being paid to development strategies.
As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.
