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Achieving BREEAM Certification for Sustainable Construction

Achieving BREEAM Certification for Sustainable Construction

Achieving BREEAM Certification for Sustainable Construction

As the construction industry continues to grow and evolve, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. One of the key tools in achieving this goal is BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), a widely recognized and respected certification scheme that evaluates the sustainability performance of buildings.

BREEAM was first introduced in 1990 as a way to assess the environmental impact of buildings, but it has since become a global standard for sustainable construction. The assessment method takes into account various aspects of a buildings design, construction, and operation, including energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and indoor air quality.

To achieve BREEAM certification, a project must undergo an extensive evaluation process that involves collecting data on its environmental performance in eight key areas: Management, Health and Well-being, Energy, Water, Materials, Waste, Transportation, and Pollution. The assessment is carried out by trained assessors who use a points-based system to evaluate the buildings performance.

Here are some of the benefits of achieving BREEAM certification:

  • Increased value: Buildings that achieve BREEAM certification can command higher sale prices or rental income due to their improved environmental performance.

  • Enhanced reputation: Certification demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, enhancing the reputation of the building owner and developer.

  • Cost savings: By incorporating sustainable design and construction practices, buildings can reduce energy consumption and waste generation, leading to long-term cost savings.

  • Compliance with regulations: BREEAM certification helps ensure compliance with existing and emerging regulatory requirements for sustainability.


    • Now lets delve deeper into two of the key areas assessed by BREEAM: Energy and Water Conservation.

    Energy Efficiency

    BREEAM assesses energy efficiency in several ways, including:

  • Lighting: Buildings must use high-efficiency lighting systems that meet specific lumens-per-watt standards.

  • Insulation: Buildings must be well-insulated to reduce heat loss and gain.

  • Windows: Double-glazed windows or other energy-efficient glazing solutions are required.

  • Heating and cooling: Buildings must have efficient heating and cooling systems, including the use of renewable energy sources where possible.


    • Here is a more detailed breakdown of BREEAMs energy efficiency criteria:

  • Insulation:

    • External walls: U-value 0.15 W/m²K

    Roof: U-value 0.25 W/m²K

    Floor: U-value 0.25 W/m²K

    Windows: U-value 1.5 W/m²K

  • Lighting:

    • Lighting power density (W/m²): 3.5 W/m²

    Lamps used: LED or other energy-efficient options

  • Mechanical ventilation: Buildings must have a mechanical ventilation system that provides adequate indoor air quality and meets specific standards for airflow rates.

  • Heating systems:

    • Boiler efficiency: 90

    Renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, biomass): 20 of total energy consumption

    Water Conservation

    BREEAM assesses water conservation in several ways, including:

  • Low-flow fixtures: Buildings must use low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets to reduce water consumption.

  • Greywater reuse: Buildings can reuse greywater (wastewater generated from sinks, showers, and washing machines) for irrigation or flushing toilets.

  • Rainwater harvesting: Buildings can collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses such as toilet flushing or cooling systems.


    • Here is a more detailed breakdown of BREEAMs water conservation criteria:

  • Low-flow fixtures:

    • Showerheads: 6 liters/minute

    Faucets: 4.5 liters/minute

    Toilets: Dual-flush or low-flow options ( 3.5 liters/flush)

  • Greywater reuse: Buildings must implement a greywater reuse system that meets specific standards for treatment and storage.

  • Rainwater harvesting: Buildings can collect and store rainwater in tanks or cisterns for non-potable uses.


    • In conclusion, achieving BREEAM certification is a rigorous process that requires careful planning and execution. By incorporating sustainable design and construction practices, building owners and developers can reduce the environmental impact of their projects while also enhancing their value and reputation.

    QA Section

    Here are some frequently asked questions about BREEAM certification:

    1. What is BREEAM?

    BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a widely recognized and respected certification scheme that evaluates the sustainability performance of buildings.
    2. Why should I pursue BREEAM certification for my project?

    Achieving BREEAM certification can increase the value of your building, enhance its reputation, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with regulations.
    3. What areas does BREEAM assess?

    BREEAM evaluates a buildings environmental performance in eight key areas: Management, Health and Well-being, Energy, Water, Materials, Waste, Transportation, and Pollution.
    4. How do I prepare for a BREEAM assessment?

    Building owners and developers should gather data on their projects environmental performance in the eight key areas assessed by BREEAM.
    5. What is the cost of BREEAM certification?

    The cost of BREEAM certification varies depending on factors such as building size, location, and complexity.
    6. How long does it take to achieve BREEAM certification?

    The time required to achieve BREEAM certification depends on the projects scope and complexity but typically takes several months.
    7. Can I pursue BREEAM certification for an existing building?

    Yes, BREEAM certification can be pursued for both new and existing buildings.

    Additional Resources

    For more information on BREEAM certification and sustainable construction practices, please consult the following resources:

  • Building Research Establishment (BRE) website:

  • BREEAM website:

  • International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) website:


    • By incorporating sustainable design and construction practices, building owners and developers can reduce the environmental impact of their projects while also enhancing their value and reputation.

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