BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a well-known sustainability assessment method for buildings It sets the standard for best practice in sustainable building design, construction, and operation In 2018, BREEAM launched an updated scheme specifically for refurbishment and fit-out projects, providing a framework for assessing and certifying the environmental performance of existing buildings.
The BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme aims to address the specific challenges and opportunities associated with refurbishing and fitting out existing buildings It offers a holistic approach to sustainability, considering factors such as energy efficiency, water usage, materials selection, waste management, and indoor environmental quality.
One of the key features of the BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme is its flexibility It can be tailored to suit the specific needs and constraints of each project, taking into account factors such as the building type, location, and intended use This flexibility allows for a more accurate and meaningful assessment of a building’s environmental performance.
The BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme is based on a set of environmental and sustainability principles, which are grouped into nine key categories These categories include energy, water, materials, waste, land use and ecology, pollution, health and wellbeing, management, and innovation Each category is assessed using a set of criteria, which are designed to measure the environmental performance of the building and guide improvements.
To achieve certification under the BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme, a building must demonstrate compliance with a set of minimum requirements in each category In addition, the building must achieve a minimum score in each category to qualify for a specific certification level, ranging from Pass to Outstanding The certification levels provide a clear indication of a building’s overall environmental performance, helping stakeholders to make informed decisions about sustainable building practices.
The BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme also places a strong emphasis on post-occupancy evaluation breeam refurbishment and fit out 2018. This involves monitoring and assessing the building’s environmental performance over time, to ensure that it continues to meet the required standards By conducting regular post-occupancy evaluations, building owners and operators can identify areas for improvement and implement new strategies to enhance sustainability.
In addition to the environmental benefits, BREEAM certification can also provide a range of other advantages for building owners and stakeholders These include improved marketability, reduced operational costs, enhanced occupant satisfaction, and increased resilience to climate change By achieving BREEAM certification, buildings can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and differentiate themselves in the market.
The BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme has been designed to be compatible with other building assessment methods and standards, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and WELL Building Standard This compatibility allows for a more integrated and comprehensive approach to sustainable building design and construction, enabling stakeholders to achieve multiple certifications and benefits.
Overall, the BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme offers a valuable framework for assessing and certifying the environmental performance of existing buildings By following the principles and criteria set out in the scheme, building owners and stakeholders can enhance the sustainability of their projects, reduce their environmental impact, and create healthier, more efficient buildings for the future.
In conclusion, the BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme provides a comprehensive and flexible framework for assessing the environmental performance of existing buildings By following the principles and criteria set out in the scheme, building owners and stakeholders can achieve certification, improve marketability, reduce operational costs, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability With its focus on sustainability, flexibility, and compatibility, the BREEAM Refurbishment and Fit Out 2018 scheme is a valuable tool for anyone involved in refurbishing and fitting out buildings.