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 recognizes and reflects the value in using sustainable practices in the built environment and encourages developers and designers to think about the environmental impact of their projects. The framework not only aims to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions but also enhances the well-being of occupants and contributes to a healthier environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. BREEAM was first launched in the UK in 1990 and has since become one of the most widely used sustainability assessment methods around the world.
2. It evaluates various aspects of a building's lifecycle, including energy use, water consumption, indoor environmental quality, pollution, transport, materials, waste, ecology, and management processes.
3. Buildings certified under BREEAM can receive different ratings: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, or Outstanding based on their performance against the criteria set out in the assessment.
4. BREEAM helps drive demand for sustainable buildings by providing benchmarks for good design and promoting transparency about environmental performance.
5. The method supports organizations in demonstrating their commitment to sustainability which can positively influence brand reputation and operational efficiency.

Review Questions

• How does BREEAM assess a building's sustainability performance and what are some key criteria used in this evaluation?
  • BREEAM assesses a building's sustainability performance through a comprehensive evaluation process that includes various key criteria such as energy efficiency, water usage, indoor environmental quality, pollution impact, transport options, materials sourcing, waste management practices, ecological considerations, and overall management processes. Each of these areas is scored to reflect how well the building meets sustainable practices. This thorough assessment enables stakeholders to understand both the environmental impact and the potential benefits of implementing sustainable measures within their projects.
• Discuss the significance of BREEAM certification in promoting environmental sustainability within museum operations.
  • BREEAM certification holds significant importance for museums as it demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability and best practices in building management. By achieving BREEAM certification, museums can enhance their reputation as responsible stewards of cultural heritage while also minimizing their carbon footprint. This certification not only helps museums optimize energy usage and reduce operational costs but also creates a healthier environment for staff and visitors alike. Furthermore, it encourages museums to engage with their communities on sustainability issues and sets an example for other organizations within the cultural sector.
• Evaluate the broader impacts of BREEAM on urban development and environmental policies in relation to sustainability initiatives.
  • The broader impacts of BREEAM on urban development are profound as it serves as a catalyst for integrating sustainability into construction practices across various sectors. By setting high standards for environmental performance, BREEAM influences architects, builders, and urban planners to prioritize sustainable solutions. This shift can lead to policy changes at local and national levels that promote green building regulations and incentivize developers to adopt sustainable methods. As more buildings achieve BREEAM certification, there is a collective movement toward reducing overall carbon emissions within urban environments. Ultimately, BREEAM not only contributes to individual project sustainability but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility that can shape future urban landscapes.

Related terms

Sustainability: The practice of meeting current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often involving environmental, social, and economic considerations.

Green Building: A structure that is designed, built, and operated in a way that reduces or eliminates its negative impact on the environment and its occupants, often incorporating sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.

Carbon Footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product, typically measured in equivalent tons of CO2.