KJ Tait

At KJ Tait, we are committed to staying at the forefront of sustainability practices in the built environment.  One of the key assessment tools is the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), a leading sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings.  As we gear up to start using Version 7 on projects, it’s important to understand the evolution of this critical standard and the new features that will drive the next wave of sustainable development.

BREEAM: A Brief Overview

BREEAM has been a cornerstone of sustainable building certification since its inception in 1990.  It provides a comprehensive framework to evaluate the environmental performance of buildings through various criteria such as energy use, health and well-being, pollution, transport, materials, waste, water, ecology, and management processes.  Over the years, BREEAM has continually evolved to address emerging environmental challenges and incorporate the latest best practices in sustainable development.

What’s New in BREEAM Version 7?

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): With the introduction of mandatory BNG legislation in England, BREEAM V7 will include new credits specifically designed to support biodiversity net gain.  This ensures that developments not only mitigate their environmental impact but actively contribute to enhancing local biodiversity.

Whole Life Carbon Assessment: BREEAM Version 7 places a stronger emphasis on whole life carbon assessment.  This holistic approach considers both embodied and operational carbon emissions, providing a more comprehensive understanding of a building’s carbon footprint over its entire lifecycle.  This change aligns with global efforts to achieve net-zero carbon buildings.

Updated Energy Credits: To better reflect the latest decarbonisation strategies and net-zero goals, BREEAM V7 updates its energy credits.  These changes ensure that the standard remains relevant and continues to drive significant reductions in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.  Energy credits are also now more heavily focussed on operational energy than before with more credits to be scored on early-stage analysis with optioneering.

Flexible demand response and controls is a new introduction whereby a weighted point system is now being introduced for controls on HVAC and electric based plant, battery storage and EV charging.

Consistency Across Schemes: BREEAM V7 aims to harmonise metrics across its various schemes, including New Construction, In-Use, Refurbishment, and Fit-Out.  This consistency allows for more accurate measurement and comparison of carbon performance across different types of buildings and projects.

Enhanced Performance Focus: The new version shifts more focus towards the actual performance of buildings rather than just the processes used to create them.  This includes more rigorous post-occupancy evaluations and performance monitoring to ensure buildings deliver on their sustainability promises.

How KJ Tait is Adapting to BREEAM V7

In conclusion, BREEAM Version 7 represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of sustainable building practices.  At KJ Tait, we are excited about these changes and are ready to embrace the new standards to help our clients achieve their sustainability goals.