What is BREEAM and Why Does It Matter?
The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) is the world’s longest established green building rating system, created to measure, improve, and certify the sustainability of buildings and infrastructure. By achieving BREEAM accreditation, organizations not only demonstrate environmental responsibility but also increase asset value, reduce operational costs, and meet the growing demand for sustainable buildings.
BREEAM certification goes beyond compliance. It offers a structured framework to improve energy efficiency, water management, material selection, and health & wellbeing in the built environment.
How BREEAM Certification Benefits the Environment
One of the strongest arguments in favor of BREEAM accreditation is its direct positive impact on the environment. Unlike many sustainability frameworks, BREEAM provides a holistic methodology that translates into measurable ecological benefits:
- Lower carbon emissions: BREEAM certified projects demonstrate significantly reduced whole life carbon footprints, thanks to energy efficient design, renewable integration, and low impact construction practices.
- Water conservation: Through smart metering, efficient fixtures, and responsible landscaping, certified buildings achieve reduced water consumption while protecting local ecosystems.
- Biodiversity protection: With requirements for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and ecological site assessments, BREEAM promotes habitats that restore rather than harm local biodiversity.
- Waste reduction and circular economy: Projects minimize waste generation, prioritize reuse of materials, and integrate recycling streams. This not only reduces landfill impact but also contributes to a resilient circular economy.
- Improved air and indoor environmental quality: BREEAM’s focus on ventilation, materials with low VOC emissions, and natural light improves both occupant wellbeing and environmental outcomes.
In practice, these benefits mean that every BREEAM assessment contributes directly to global goals such as net zero carbon and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Types of BREEAM Schemes (Choosing the Right One for Your Project)
- New Construction
- In Use
- Refurbishment & Fit out
- Communities / Infrastructure
Step by Step Process to Obtain BREEAM Accreditation
- Find and select a licensed BREEAM assessor.
- Register the project with BRE.
- Collect evidence and prepare documentation.
- Submit for verification, site visits, and Quality Assurance.
- Receive certification and plan for future recertification.
Categories of Assessment: How Scores Are Achieved
- Management, Energy, Water, Transport, Materials, Waste, Health & Wellbeing, Land Use & Ecology, Pollution, Innovation.
- Examples of measures: energy modeling, water metering, responsible material sourcing, biodiversity plans.
Certification Levels and What You Need to Achieve Them
- Pass (≥30%)
- Good (≥45%)
- Very Good (≥55%)
- Excellent (≥70%)
- Outstanding (≥85%)
Key Changes in BREEAM V7 (What You Need to Know Now)
- Net zero and whole life carbon requirements
- Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and expanded ecological criteria
Practical Resources and Templates
- Checklist of required evidence
- Project timeline template
- Preaudit preparation guide
How to Choose a BREEAM Consultant or Assessor
- Certifications and project references
- Technical tools and reporting methods
- Key questions to ask before hiring
FAQ: Quick Answers About BREEAM Accreditation
- What is BREEAM accreditation? The world’s leading sustainability assessment method for buildings.
- What are the certification levels? Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, Outstanding.
- How long does certification take? Varies by project scope; typically 6–12 months.
- Is BREEAM mandatory? No, but often required by investors, governments, or ESG frameworks.
- How is BREEAM different from LEED? BREEAM originated in the UK and has broader international schemes; LEED is US based but widely recognized.
Achieving BREEAM accreditation positions a project as a leader in sustainable building design. Whether you are planning a new construction, upgrading an existing facility, or working on infrastructure, BREEAM provides a globally recognized pathway to reduce environmental impact while improving asset value.
