BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a sustainability certification method that assesses the environmental performance of buildings. It is one of the most widely used and recognized methods worldwide for measuring the sustainability of buildings and infrastructure.

How does BREEAM work?

BREEAM assesses buildings on various sustainability criteria and assigns a score based on a building's performance. The assessment is conducted by an independent BREEAM expert and results in a certificate with one of the following performance levels:

⭐ Pass (≥ 30%)
⭐⭐ Good (≥ 45%)
⭐⭐⭐ Very Good (≥ 55%)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent (≥ 70%)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Outstanding (≥ 85%)

Which categories does BREEAM assess?

A BREEAM certification assesses buildings on ten sustainability categories :

1. Management – Sustainable management of the building and construction process.
2. Health & Wellbeing – Indoor air quality, daylighting and acoustics.
3. Energy – Energy efficiency, CO₂ emissions and renewable energy sources.
4. Transport – Accessibility and sustainable mobility (e.g. bicycle facilities, public transport accessibility).
5. Water – Water conservation and efficient water use.
6. Materials – Use of sustainable, recycled and environmentally friendly building materials.
7. Waste – Management and recycling of waste during construction and use.
8. Land Use & Ecology – Conservation and enhancement of biodiversity on the site.
9. Pollution – Limiting emissions and environmental damage.
10. Innovation – Extra points for innovative sustainable solutions.

Which types of buildings can be BREEAM certified?

BREEAM is applicable to various types of buildings, including:

• New construction
• Existing buildings (In-Use)
• Renovation and transformation projects
• Homes, offices, schools, hospitals, shops and industrial buildings

Why choose BREEAM?

✅ Lower environmental impact – Less energy and water consumption, less waste.
✅ Higher property value – Sustainable buildings are more attractive to investors and tenants.
✅ Lower operating costs – Energy-efficient buildings reduce costs in the long run.
✅ Healthier working and living environment – Better air quality and more daylight contribute to well-being and productivity.
✅ Regulations & subsidies – Many governments and municipalities encourage sustainable construction with subsidies and tax benefits.

Difference between BREEAM and other certifications