BREEAM

Definition

BREEAM, or Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, is a sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings. It promotes a holistic approach to sustainability, considering factors such as energy efficiency, water usage, indoor environmental quality, and overall resource management. By providing a framework for assessing the environmental performance of buildings, BREEAM encourages the adoption of sustainable practices in construction and facilities management.

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 globally.
2. The BREEAM rating system categorizes buildings into different levels, including Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and Outstanding based on their performance across various sustainability criteria.
3. BREEAM assessments consider the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction to operation and maintenance, promoting long-term sustainability.
4. To achieve BREEAM certification, projects must be assessed by licensed BREEAM assessors who evaluate compliance with the relevant criteria.
5. BREEAM encourages innovation in building design by awarding credits for innovative approaches that exceed standard practices in sustainability.

Review Questions

• How does BREEAM influence the design and construction practices within the context of sustainable facilities management?
  • BREEAM influences design and construction practices by providing a structured framework for assessing sustainability performance across various criteria. This encourages architects and builders to prioritize energy efficiency, resource conservation, and indoor environmental quality from the project's inception. By adhering to BREEAM guidelines, facilities management teams can ensure that their buildings operate sustainably throughout their lifecycle, ultimately reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
• Compare BREEAM with other sustainability certification systems like LEED and discuss their unique contributions to green building initiatives.
  • BREEAM and LEED both aim to promote sustainable building practices but differ in their methodologies and regional applicability. While BREEAM originated in the UK and emphasizes holistic environmental performance assessments, LEED is widely used in North America and focuses on specific credit categories for energy efficiency, materials, and indoor air quality. Each certification system contributes uniquely to green building initiatives by providing diverse frameworks that adapt to different market needs and regulatory environments.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of implementing BREEAM standards on a facility's operational efficiency and environmental impact.
  • Implementing BREEAM standards can lead to significant long-term benefits for a facility's operational efficiency and environmental impact. By focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials throughout the building's lifecycle, facilities can reduce utility costs and minimize waste. This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the building's performance but also improves its marketability and value over time. Furthermore, achieving BREEAM certification often fosters a culture of continuous improvement in sustainability practices among facility managers and occupants.

Related terms

LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is another widely recognized green building certification system that provides a framework for sustainable building practices.

Green Building: Green buildings are designed to minimize their environmental impact through efficient use of resources and sustainable construction practices.

Sustainable Development: Sustainable development refers to a development approach that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.