BREEAM

Definition

BREEAM, which stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, is a widely recognized sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings. It provides a framework for assessing the environmental performance of new and existing buildings, focusing on various sustainability criteria such as energy efficiency, water usage, indoor environmental quality, and materials sourcing. BREEAM certification is often used to demonstrate a commitment to reducing environmental impacts and enhancing the sustainability of the built environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. BREEAM was first launched in the UK in 1990 and has since become one of the most widely used sustainability assessment methods globally.
2. BREEAM assesses buildings across several categories, including management, health and well-being, energy, transport, water, materials, waste, land use, ecology, and pollution.
3. A building can achieve different levels of BREEAM certification: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and Outstanding, depending on its score in the assessment process.
4. BREEAM encourages innovation by awarding additional credits for exemplary performance in sustainability practices that go beyond the standard requirements.
5. The certification process involves a third-party assessment by a licensed BREEAM assessor to ensure transparency and credibility in the evaluation.

Review Questions

• How does BREEAM influence construction practices in relation to climate change mitigation?
  • BREEAM influences construction practices by setting rigorous standards for sustainability that encourage developers to adopt energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly materials. By focusing on minimizing carbon footprints through improved energy performance and resource management, BREEAM helps reduce the overall environmental impact of buildings. This alignment with climate change mitigation strategies makes BREEAM a valuable tool for promoting sustainable development in the construction industry.
• Discuss the benefits of BREEAM certification for stakeholders involved in the construction of buildings.
  • BREEAM certification offers numerous benefits for stakeholders involved in building construction. For developers and investors, it can enhance property value and marketability due to increased demand for sustainable buildings. For occupants and users, certified buildings often provide better indoor air quality and comfort. Furthermore, local governments may promote BREEAM as part of their climate action plans, making compliance easier for projects aiming to meet regulatory standards.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of widespread BREEAM adoption on urban development and environmental policy.
  • The widespread adoption of BREEAM can significantly shape urban development and influence environmental policy over time. As more buildings achieve BREEAM certification, cities could see a shift towards sustainable infrastructure that prioritizes energy efficiency and reduced resource consumption. This shift can lead to stricter regulations promoting green building practices at local and national levels. Additionally, it could encourage innovation within industries related to construction and building materials as stakeholders strive to meet higher sustainability standards. The cumulative effect can contribute to more resilient urban environments that are better equipped to combat climate change.

Related terms

LEED: LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is another popular green building certification system that evaluates the environmental performance of buildings and encourages sustainable practices.

Sustainable Building: Sustainable building refers to structures designed and constructed with minimal environmental impact, optimizing resources while providing healthy living environments.

Green Building Council: A Green Building Council is an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable building practices, often responsible for administering green building certification systems like BREEAM and LEED.