Sustainability has become a core focus in the construction and real estate industries. As environmental concerns such as climate change, resource depletion, and energy efficiency continue to grow, developers and property owners seek reliable frameworks to guide sustainable building practices. One of the most well-established certification programs for sustainable construction is BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). Developed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in the UK, BREEAM assesses and certifies buildings based on their environmental performance and sustainability impact.
What is BREEAM Certification?
BREEAM is a globally recognized sustainability assessment method for buildings, infrastructure, and master planning projects. It provides a comprehensive framework for designing, constructing, and operating buildings with a focus on energy efficiency, resource conservation, occupant health, and environmental impact.
BREEAM applies to various building types, including new developments, refurbishments, operational buildings, and community-level projects. The assessment evaluates key sustainability aspects such as energy use, water management, material sourcing, pollution control, and ecological impact. Based on the total score achieved, buildings are rated on a five-level scale: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, or Outstanding.
BREEAM certification promotes sustainability by encouraging energy-efficient designs, reducing carbon footprints, and improving occupant well-being.
This guide explores the differences between BREEAM New Construction, In-Use, and Refurbishment, the assessment process, and the key sustainability factors involved.
The BREEAM Certification Process
The BREEAM assessment process follows several key stages:
1. Choosing the Right BREEAM Scheme
Project teams select the most suitable BREEAM category based on the building type and purpose:
- BREEAM New Construction: For newly built properties and major renovations.
- BREEAM In-Use: For existing buildings seeking to improve their sustainability performance.
- BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out: For renovations, refurbishments, and interior design upgrades.
- BREEAM Communities: For large-scale developments focusing on sustainable urban planning.
2. Pre-Assessment & Registration
The project team conducts a pre-assessment to determine potential sustainability measures. The project is then registered with BRE for evaluation.
3. Assessment and Certification
A BREEAM Assessor evaluates the project based on criteria such as energy use, water efficiency, materials, and ecology. The assessment is reviewed and verified before awarding a certification rating.
BREEAM Certification Ratings
Buildings earn a BREEAM rating based on the total points achieved in the assessment:
- Pass: 30–44%
- Good: 45–54%
- Very Good: 55–69%
- Excellent: 70–84%
- Outstanding: 85%+
BREEAM New Construction vs. In-Use vs. Refurbishment
BREEAM certification is designed for different project types:
- BREEAM New Construction: Focuses on sustainability in the design and construction phases.
- BREEAM In-Use: Helps existing buildings improve environmental performance through operational efficiency.
- BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit-Out: Encourages sustainable practices in renovation and interior projects.
Key Components of BREEAM Certification
BREEAM assessments consist of mandatory requirements (prerequisites) and optional credits that contribute to the final score.
- Prerequisites: Baseline sustainability criteria that all projects must meet.
- Credits: Additional sustainability measures that allow projects to achieve higher certification levels.
BREEAM Credit Categories
BREEAM evaluates buildings based on various sustainability factors:
- Management (MAN): Encourages efficient project management and stakeholder engagement.
- Health & Well-being (HEA): Focuses on indoor air quality, lighting, and occupant comfort.
- Energy (ENE): Assesses energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and renewable energy use.
- Transport (TRA): Rewards projects with sustainable transport options and accessibility.
- Water (WAT): Promotes efficient water use and conservation strategies.
- Materials (MAT): Encourages the use of sustainable and responsibly sourced materials.
- Waste (WST): Focuses on waste reduction, recycling, and circular economy principles.
- Land Use & Ecology (LE): Protects biodiversity and enhances ecological value.
- Pollution (POL): Minimizes air, water, and noise pollution impacts.
- Innovation (INN): Rewards exceptional sustainability measures beyond standard requirements.
Conclusion
BREEAM certification provides a structured and credible approach for designing, constructing, and managing sustainable buildings. Whether for a new construction project, an operational building, or a refurbishment initiative, BREEAM offers valuable strategies for minimizing environmental impact, enhancing energy efficiency, and improving occupant well-being.
By understanding the certification process, rating system, and credit structure, project teams can achieve their sustainability goals while ensuring long-term economic and environmental benefits.