Are you a property owner, whether for commercial or residential use? If you're so worried about Environmental impact how to find ways to do it more Sustainable y energy-efficient, you are in the right place. In this article, we are going to explore a highly effective solution for achieving these goals: Certification BREEAM In Use. Discover how obtaining this certification can help you transform your building to be more environmentally friendly and, in turn, increase its value.
What is BREEAM?
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology) is a globally recognised method for evaluate and certify environmental performance of buildings in different categories, including: health and well-being, energy, transport, water, resources, resilience, land use and ecology, pollution, and innovation.
There are different types of schemes, each of which is adapted to the use of the building and different stages of a building's life cycle. BREEAM In Use is one of them.
Source: https://breeam.es/
BREEAM En Uso é uma avaliação do desempenho ambiental de edifícios existentes.
In summary, BREEAM In Use focuses on the Operation and management of existing buildings or spaces, offering a comprehensive tool to measure and improve your environmental performance.
The implementation of BREEAM In Use involves following several steps: registration on the programme, assessment of the building's current situation, identification of areas for improvement, implementation of corrective actions, and obtaining final certification.
To obtain certification, it is necessary to have the backing of professionals and experts in sustainability to carry out a comprehensive evaluation, propose improvement actions and achieve the expected results. At Espacios Evalore, we have a team of committed consultants to help you improve and maximise your building's potential. Furthermore, it is important to maintain a commitment to Continuous improvement and take concrete actions to oOptimising the sustainable performance of the building.
Source: https://breeam.es/
What options are there in BREEAM In Use?
The BREEAM In-Use scheme can be evaluated and certified separately:
- Part 1 Certificate: The Building. It takes into account the performance of an existing building, based on the inherent characteristics of its physical structure, construction, and installations.
- Part 2 Certificate: Management. Qualitatively evaluates the management policies, procedures, and practices relating to the operation, functioning, and maintenance of an existing building. It includes the consumption of key resources such as energy, water, and other consumables, as well as environmental impacts related to carbon emissions and waste.
You have the option to evaluate each of the parts independently or jointly: Part 1 Certification, Part 2 Certification, or Certification of both Parts (Part 1 and Part 2) simultaneously.
How does BREEAM certification work?
The BREEAM certification uses a Point-based approach to evaluate and classify buildings, allowing all stakeholders to compare building performance. Each category has a series of specific criteria and objectives that must be met to gain points. As points are accumulated, a building can achieve different certification levels: Correct, Good, Very Good, Excellent and Exceptional.
Source: https://breeam.es/
Buildings with higher ratings are not only more sustainable but also offer economic and social benefits, such as reduced operating costs, increased occupant satisfaction, and a better quality of life.
What are the benefits of BREEAM In-Use certification?
The BREEAM In Use certification offers a wide range of benefits for sustainable construction projects. Here are some of the main benefits of obtaining this certification:
• Lower operating costs BREEAM In Use promotes efficiency in buildings. Using monitoring, evaluation, and setting behaviour goals assessed against benchmarks.
• Added value and differentiation: BREEAM In Use awards Recognition and prestige for properties. Achieving this certification demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and differentiation from the competition. Buyers, investors, and occupants increasingly value sustainable buildings, which can translate into increased demand and higher market value for your project.
• Health and wellbeing: BREEAM In Use is concerned with the Indoor building environmental quality. Therefore, the evaluation criteria include aspects such as indoor air quality, natural lighting, temperature control, acoustic comfort, and the availability of outdoor spaces. BREEAM certification allows for the management of healthier and more comfortable spaces for the people who occupy them, which can have a positive impact on their well-being and productivity.
• Environmental sustainability BREEAM In Use promotes sustainable building practices, resulting in a Reducing the environmental impact of buildings. One of the basic principles it adopts is the circular economy.
Photo of a BREEAM In Use certified project. Hotel Silken Puerta Madrid
One of 9 hotels Pygmalion Capital BREEAM Certificates In Use in Spain
What is the BREEAM In Use certification process??
It is important to note that BREEAM In Use certification is not a static process, but focuses on the Continuous improvement of a building's sustainable performance over time. Once certification is obtained, it is necessary to maintain compliance with the requirements and carry out periodic assessments to maintain and improve the level of sustainability. It is also necessary to carry out a recertification every 3 years (every 36 months from the certificate's issue date).
The time to achieve BREEAM In Use certification can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the building, the availability of data, and how quickly necessary improvements are implemented. However, the certification process generally takes between 6 and 12 months.
BREEAM certification is not permanent. Initial certification has a limited validity and, in some cases, may require periodic renewal or reassessment to maintain its validity.
¿How much does BREEAM In Use certification cost??
It is important to note that BREEAM In-Use certification is offered exclusively for existing buildings, whether they are Commercial or residential. Furthermore, the certification process requires an assessor to carry out the initial registration. At Espacios Evalore, we will provide you with guidance throughout your project's certification process, offering you personalised solutions and effective strategies. You can consult the BREEAM In Use certification fees here.
In summary, BREEAM In Use certification provides benefits that go beyond simple accreditation. It promotes environmental sustainability, improves energy performance, ensures healthy spaces, offers competitive market advantages, and allows for long-term savings. Obtaining BREEAM In Use certification is an important step towards building a more sustainable and resilient future. At Espacios Evalore, we are committed to helping our clients improve their projects and contribute to caring for the planet. Want to know how we can help you? Contact us today.
Camila Harguindeguy
Civil Engineer and Sustainability Consultant, Espacios Evalore SLP
