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 encourages developers to consider the environmental impact of their projects by providing a framework that covers various aspects such as energy efficiency, water usage, and sustainable materials. By obtaining a BREEAM certification, a building demonstrates its commitment to minimizing its ecological footprint and promoting sustainable practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. BREEAM was first launched in 1990 in the UK and has since become one of the most recognized sustainability assessment methods worldwide.
2. The BREEAM rating system evaluates buildings on a scale from Pass to Outstanding, with points awarded for various sustainability criteria.
3. BREEAM assessments cover various categories including energy, health and well-being, pollution, transport, and land use.
4. One of the key benefits of achieving BREEAM certification is improved marketability and reduced operational costs due to enhanced efficiency and sustainability.
5. BREEAM encourages ongoing sustainability improvements post-construction by offering reassessments to adapt to changing technologies and regulations.

Review Questions

• How does BREEAM influence the design and construction processes of new buildings?
  • BREEAM influences design and construction by providing developers with a structured framework that promotes sustainable practices at every stage of a building's lifecycle. This encourages architects and builders to integrate energy-efficient systems, select sustainable materials, and consider the environmental impact of their projects. The certification process motivates teams to aim for higher performance standards, resulting in innovative solutions that reduce the ecological footprint of new developments.
• Discuss the advantages of BREEAM certification for warehouses compared to traditional building methods.
  • BREEAM certification offers numerous advantages for warehouses by focusing on sustainability and efficiency. Compared to traditional building methods, BREEAM-certified warehouses often have reduced energy consumption and lower operational costs due to optimized designs that prioritize insulation, lighting efficiency, and renewable energy sources. Additionally, such certifications enhance a company's reputation as an environmentally responsible business while potentially qualifying for incentives or tax benefits associated with green building practices.
• Evaluate how BREEAM aligns with broader industry-specific sustainability standards and why this alignment is important.
  • BREEAM aligns closely with various industry-specific sustainability standards by incorporating best practices tailored to different sectors while maintaining a holistic view of environmental impacts. This alignment is essential because it allows companies to meet multiple regulatory requirements simultaneously, streamlining compliance processes and improving overall sustainability performance. Furthermore, it fosters collaboration among stakeholders in different industries by promoting shared goals around resource efficiency and reducing carbon footprints, ultimately contributing to global sustainability efforts.

Related terms

LEED: LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is another major green building certification system that evaluates the environmental performance of buildings and encourages market transformation towards sustainable design.

Green Building: Green building refers to the practice of creating structures that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's lifecycle, from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, and renovation.

Sustainable Materials: Sustainable materials are resources used in construction that have minimal negative impact on the environment, are renewable or recyclable, and contribute to healthier living spaces.