BREEAM is the world’s leading sustainability assessment method for masterplanning projects, infrastructure and buildings. It addresses a number of lifecycle stages such as New Construction, Refurbishment and In-Use. Globally there are more than 562,500 BREEAM certified developments, and almost 2,266,400 buildings registered for assessment since it was first launched in 1990.
BREEAM inspires developers and creators to excel, innovate and make effective use of resources. The focus on sustainable value and efficiency makes BREEAM certified developments attractive property investments and generates sustainable environments that enhance the well-being of the people who live and work in them.
The BREEAM assessment process evaluates the procurement, design, construction and operation of a development against targets that are based on performance benchmarks. Assessments are carried out by independent, licensed assessors, and developments rated and certified on a scale of Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding.
BREEAM measures sustainable value in a series of categories, ranging from energy to ecology. Each of these categories addresses the most influential factors, including low impact design and carbon emissions reduction; design durability and resilience; adaption to climate change; and ecological value and biodiversity protection.
During the assessment process, each category is sub-divided into a range of issues, which promotes the use of new benchmarks, aims and targets.
When a target is reached, credits are awarded, then once the development has been fully assessed, depending upon the total number of credits awarded, a final performance rating is achieved.
Timely engagement of a BREEAM assessor is essential for ensuring seamless integration of the methodology of any project. If delayed, this may mean that optimized cost efficiency and the buildings environmental performance may be compromised.
Appointing a BREEAM Assessor in the early stages of the project will help in achieving the target rating without impact on the design flexibility, design decisions and budget.
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SAM LYSIAK, TECHNICAL CO-ORDINATOR, KIER