- July 20, 2022
BREEAM
Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
info@realteq.com
(Reading time: 1 minute)
Last week we discussed the LEED rating system in more detail (click here). This week, we will discuss the BREEAM rating system and its assessment method.
At REALTEQ we have developed innovative software that helps tenants, landlords and advisors compare and negotiate assets on their “Green Features”, as part of the overall RFP process. In the article below, you will find an introduction into the BREEAM rating system.
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
BREEAM is the Building Research Establishment’s (BRE) Environmental Assessment Method. It was first launched in the United Kingdom back in 1990 by BRE. BRE is an independent and impartial, research-based consultancy which was originally a government department but was privatized in 1997.
BREEAM aims to set the standard for best practice in sustainable building design and construction. Several of its focus points are:
- Mitigation of the life cycle impact of building on the environment
- Enable buildings to be recognized according to the environmental benefits and details
- Provide a credible, environment label for buildings
- Stimulate demand for sustainable buildings and construction
BREEAM assesses the performance of a development over a number of environmental matters, which will produce a rating of either PASS, GOOD, VERY GOOD, EXCELLENT or OUTSTANDING.
The assessment criteria will include the following:
- Energy and water use
- Internal environment (health and well-being)
- Pollution
- Transport
- Materials
- Waste management
- Ecology
- Management Processes
In addition to the new construction certification scheme, they also offer the following certification schemes; International new construction, Communities, Infrastructure, In-Use and Refurbishment & Fit-Out.
BREEAM is currently the main rating system used in the United Kingdom. It is a global scheme however and there are a number of countries where country specific schemes have been developed. Examples are Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Spain and Sweden. As can be seen, it has been widely used in Europe and gaining ground in other regions too.
Next week we will discuss the Green Star system in more detail and how it assesses the ‘Green Features’ of a building.
Click here to find out how REALTEQ automates, shortens and simplifies the entire negotiation process for you and incorporates all ‘Green Features’ mentioned in this article.
