BREEAM

Definition

BREEAM, which stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, is a sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings. It sets the standard for assessing the environmental performance of buildings and encourages developers to use sustainable practices. By promoting energy efficiency, resource conservation, and sustainable land use, BREEAM plays a crucial role in the shift towards more environmentally friendly construction and development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. BREEAM was first launched in 1990 in the UK and has since become a leading sustainability assessment tool globally.
2. Buildings certified under BREEAM must meet specific standards across various categories, including energy, water use, indoor environmental quality, and materials used.
3. The BREEAM rating system uses a point-based approach where buildings can achieve ratings such as Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, or Outstanding based on their sustainability performance.
4. BREEAM not only benefits the environment but also provides economic advantages through reduced operating costs and increased asset value for property owners.
5. To maintain relevance, BREEAM is regularly updated to reflect changes in legislation, market expectations, and advancements in sustainable practices.

Review Questions

• How does BREEAM contribute to sustainable development in the construction industry?
  • BREEAM promotes sustainable development by setting benchmarks for environmentally responsible building practices. It encourages developers to consider factors like energy efficiency, resource conservation, and the overall impact of their projects on the environment. This not only leads to greener buildings but also fosters a culture of sustainability in construction by incentivizing better designs that minimize ecological footprints.
• Compare BREEAM with another green building certification system, discussing their similarities and differences.
  • BREEAM and LEED are both leading green building certification systems that focus on promoting sustainability in construction. While both assess similar categories such as energy use and indoor environmental quality, BREEAM is primarily used in the UK and Europe whereas LEED has a stronger presence in North America. Additionally, BREEAM offers a more detailed scoring system with various levels of certification compared to LEED’s more straightforward tiered approach. Despite these differences, both aim to improve building performance and reduce environmental impact.
• Evaluate the long-term benefits of implementing BREEAM standards in real estate development projects.
  • Implementing BREEAM standards provides numerous long-term benefits for real estate development projects. Buildings that meet BREEAM criteria often experience lower operational costs due to improved energy efficiency and water conservation measures. Moreover, they tend to attract higher occupancy rates as tenants increasingly prefer sustainable spaces. Additionally, properties with BREEAM certification may enjoy higher asset values and lower vacancy rates due to the growing demand for eco-friendly developments. Overall, BREEAM not only enhances environmental performance but also supports economic viability for developers.

Related terms

LEED: LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is another widely recognized green building certification program that focuses on sustainable building practices and energy efficiency.

Green Building: Green building refers to the practice of creating structures that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their life cycle.

Sustainability: Sustainability involves meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often emphasized in environmental practices.