BREEAM: A Key Framework for Sustainable Buildings

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is one of the most widely used certification schemes for assessing the sustainability performance of buildings. It provides a structured, internationally recognised framework to reduce environmental impacts, improve health and comfort for users, and support long-term asset value. For investors and developers, BREEAM offers a transparent benchmark that helps manage risks related to regulation, operating costs, and market expectations, including those driven by the EU Green Deal and taxonomy.

Principles, Schemes and Areas of Assessment

BREEAM is a science-based, evidence-driven assessment of a building across several categories. Different schemes are available for new construction, in-use buildings, and refurbishment and fit-out projects, as well as for larger developments and communities.

Typical assessment areas include energy performance and carbon emissions, responsible water use, materials with lower environmental impacts, sustainable transport options, and measures supporting occupant health and wellbeing (daylight, thermal comfort, acoustics, and indoor air quality). BREEAM also evaluates waste management, pollution, and increasingly, aspects of circularity and resilience.

Scoring, Ratings and the Certification ProcesS

Each assessed issue carries a certain number of credits. The project team implements measures to achieve these credits, and the results are aggregated into a score for each category and an overall percentage rating. On this basis, the building is classified into one of five levels: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, or Outstanding.

The certification process typically starts with an early-stage strategy and pre-assessment to align the design with the targeted rating level. During design and construction, evidence is collected and verified by an independent licensed BREEAM Assessor. After completion and review, the certificate is issued by the scheme operator. For in-use buildings, regular recertification helps drive continuous improvement throughout the building's lifecycle.

Benefits and Comparison with Other Standards

For investors, BREEAM certification can support higher occupancy rates, stronger tenant demand, and more resilient asset value, as well as access to sustainable finance products. For building users, it contributes to lower operating costs, improved comfort and wellbeing, and a healthier working environment. In the Czech Republic, BREEAM is widely used alongside international systems such as LEED (with a stronger focus on US practice) and WELL (focused on health and wellbeing).

Current trends in certification include a growing emphasis on whole-life carbon, climate resilience, social value, and integration with digital tools and ESG reporting frameworks, making BREEAM an important instrument for aligning real estate portfolios with long-term sustainability goals.