As the world grapples with climate change and resource depletion, the construction industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact. Buildings account for nearly 40 percent of global energy-related carbon emissions, making sustainability in construction more critical than ever. One of the leading frameworks driving the shift to sustainable construction is BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). This globally recognised business sustainability certification evaluates and encourages best practices in building design, construction, and operation. Continue reading as we delve into how it works, the certification process, and real-world case studies of BREEAM projects.
What is BREEAM certification?Â
BREEAM is a globally recognised sustainability assessment and certification system for buildings, infrastructure, and master planning projects. Developed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in 1990, it sets the standard for best practices in environmental, social, and economic sustainability for the built environment.
How BREEAM worksÂ
BREEAM is assessed through a points-based system, where buildings earn credits based on how well they meet specific sustainability criteria. BREEAM assessments are conducted by licensed BREEAM Assessors, who evaluate a building against various sustainability categories.Â
The process typically includes the following stages:
- Registration: The project is registered with a licensed BREEAM Assessor.
- Pre-Assessment: Initial review of potential sustainability measures and target rating.
- Evidence Collection: The project team submits documentation to support sustainability claims.
- Formal Assessment: The assessor reviews the evidence and assigns scores based on BREEAM criteria.
- Certification: BRE issues a final BREEAM rating based on the total score achieved.
BREEAM awards credits based on a building’s sustainability performance across key categories, such as energy efficiency, health and wellbeing, materials, and waste. Each category has a weighted percentage, reflecting its environmental impact. The total number of credits earned is multiplied by its respective weighting, and the final BREEAM score determines the building’s overall rating.
Buildings scoring 30-44 percent receive a Pass rating, meeting basic sustainability standards. A Good rating (45-54 percent) indicates above-average performance, while Very Good (55-69 percent) reflects strong sustainability measures. Excellent (70-84 percent) recognises significant commitment to best practices, and Outstanding (85 percent or more) represents market-leading environmental performance. BREEAM also rewards innovation, offering extra credits for advanced sustainability initiatives, such as cutting-edge renewables or net-zero carbon strategies.Â
How long does BREEAM certification last?Â
The validity of BREEAM certification depends on the type of assessment conducted:
- BREEAM New Construction & Refurbishment Certifications: These are awarded at project completion and remain valid for the building’s lifetime unless significant changes are made that impact sustainability performance.
- BREEAM In-Use Certification: This applies to existing buildings and must be renewed annually to ensure continued compliance with sustainability standards. A full re-assessment is required every three years.
To maintain BREEAM certification, buildings may need to undergo periodic reviews and demonstrate ongoing sustainability improvements, particularly for operational performance under the BREEAM In-Use scheme.
Examples of BREEAM projectsÂ
BREEAM certification has been awarded to a wide range of projects across industries, demonstrating best practices in sustainable building design, construction, and operation.Â
The Edge, Amsterdam (BREEAM Outstanding – 98.36 percent)
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Type: Office Building
Key features:
- Regarded as one of the world’s greenest office buildings, The Edge achieved a BREEAM Outstanding rating with a record-breaking 98.36 percent score.
- Utilises smart energy systems, including solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system.
- It features sensor-controlled lighting and heating, optimises energy use, and reduces carbon emissions.
- Designed to be energy-positive, generating more energy than it consumes.
IKEA Greenwich, London (BREEAM Outstanding – 90.44 percent)
Location: London, UK
Type: Retail
Key features:
- The most sustainable IKEA store in the UK, achieving BREEAM Outstanding status.
- Features solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and a geothermal heating system.
- Incorporates sustainable building materials and maximises natural daylight.
- Includes dedicated space for community sustainability workshops and green initiatives.
The Crystal, London (BREEAM Outstanding – 95.6 percent)
Location: London, UK
Type: Sustainable Exhibition and Office Building
Key features:
- One of the world’s most sustainable buildings, powered by 100 percent renewable energy.
- Smart building technology adjusts heating, cooling, and lighting based on occupancy and weather conditions.
- Rainwater collection and blackwater recycling systems reduce water demand.
- Showcases future-forward urban sustainability solutions.
Conclusion
By setting high standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and occupant wellbeing, BREEAM-certified buildings demonstrate that sustainability is so much more than an environmental responsibility. With governments, investors, and consumers increasingly prioritising green initiatives, businesses that adopt BREEAM certification will gain a competitive edge while contributing to broader climate goals.
However, the urgency to address sustainability in construction cannot be overstated. The sector must continue to push for higher standards, embrace innovation, and integrate sustainability at every stage of the building lifecycle. As the demand for greener, more resilient infrastructure grows, BREEAM provides a powerful roadmap for developers, architects, and businesses to lead the transition.Â
