What is BREEAM Certification and How Do You Get It?

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), developed in 1990 in the United Kingdom, is one of the world's oldest and most widely used environmental assessment methods and rating systems. The BREEAM certification is a standard used to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of projects in designing, constructing, and operating sustainable buildings.

The BREEAM certification evaluates buildings based on various criteria such as energy efficiency, water consumption, the sustainability of materials used, waste management, health, and comfort. Through these criteria, the negative environmental impact of buildings is minimized while simultaneously enhancing the health and well-being of building occupants.

Importance of BREEAM Certificate

There are many benefits to a BREEAM certified building. These include savings in energy and water consumption, demonstration of environmental responsibility, added value for investors and occupiers, compliance with regulations and enhanced brand reputation. At the same time, BREEAM certified buildings contribute to sustainable future goals by reducing the carbon footprint.

How to Obtain a BREEAM Certificate?

The following basic steps should be followed to obtain BREEAM certification:

1. Starting the Registration and Evaluation Process: You can start the assessment process by registering your project through the BREEAM system. At this stage, you need to work with a BREEAM assessor.
2. Review of Criteria and Implementation Plan: The criteria set by BREEAM should be taken into consideration from the design stage of the project. These criteria cover various topics such as energy efficiency, water management, material selection.
3. Evaluation and Documentation: As the project progresses, your compliance with the specified criteria is evaluated and this process is documented. The BREEAM assessor scores by analysing all the evidence.
4. Certification: As a result of the assessment, it is possible to award your project with one of the BREEAM certification levels. These levels are ranked as ‘Pass’, ‘Good’, ‘Very Good’, ‘Excellent’ or ‘Outstanding’.

Which types of projects are eligible for BREEAM certification?

BREEAM can be applied for a wide range of projects, including new buildings, existing buildings and renovation projects. BREEAM certification can be obtained in many different areas such as commercial offices, residential projects, educational buildings, retail areas and industrial buildings.

Conclusion

BREEAM is an internationally recognised standard for environmentally friendly and sustainable building design. You can consider getting BREEAM certification to realise your sustainability goals and minimise the environmental impact of your projects. This process will be an investment that will benefit both the planet and your business in the long term. For more detailed information, you can take a look at our article What is a Green Building and How is it Designed ?