BREEAM

Definition

BREEAM, or Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, is a sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings. It recognizes and reflects the value in higher performing assets across the built environment lifecycle, from new construction to in-use and refurbishment. By promoting sustainable practices and reducing environmental impacts, BREEAM connects closely with the principles of sustainability and resilience in structural design.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. BREEAM was first launched in 1990 and has since evolved to become one of the most widely recognized sustainability assessment methods globally.
2. The assessment covers various sustainability issues including energy use, water consumption, materials sourcing, waste management, and biodiversity.
3. BREEAM ratings range from 'Pass' to 'Outstanding', allowing projects to be compared on their environmental performance.
4. The BREEAM process encourages collaboration among all stakeholders involved in a project, ensuring that sustainability is integrated at every stage of design and construction.
5. Implementing BREEAM can lead to improved occupant satisfaction and reduced operating costs due to enhanced energy efficiency and resource management.

Review Questions

• How does BREEAM contribute to sustainable practices in structural design?
  • BREEAM promotes sustainable practices by assessing buildings based on various environmental criteria such as energy use, water management, and material sourcing. This encourages architects and engineers to integrate sustainability into their designs right from the planning phase. The assessment helps ensure that the structures built are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly, fostering a holistic approach to sustainability in structural design.
• Discuss how BREEAM's rating system influences the construction industry’s approach to sustainability.
  • BREEAM's rating system significantly influences the construction industry by providing clear benchmarks for sustainability performance. By striving for higher ratings, developers and builders are motivated to adopt innovative technologies and materials that reduce environmental impacts. This competitive edge can lead to enhanced marketability of properties and drive industry-wide changes towards more sustainable practices.
• Evaluate the long-term benefits of implementing BREEAM standards for both building owners and the environment.
  • Implementing BREEAM standards offers long-term benefits for building owners by increasing property value through enhanced energy efficiency and reduced operating costs. Environmentally, these standards help lower carbon emissions and resource depletion, leading to healthier ecosystems. Furthermore, by fostering improved occupant health and well-being through better indoor environments, BREEAM not only supports financial interests but also promotes a sustainable future.

Related terms

Sustainable Building: A building designed, constructed, and operated to minimize its environmental impact while maximizing resource efficiency.

Energy Efficiency: The goal of reducing energy consumption through using less energy to provide the same service, often a critical factor in sustainable design.

Green Building Certification: A recognition that a building meets certain environmental standards and performance criteria, often evaluated by third-party organizations like BREEAM.