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Sustainability standards are crucial for the promotion of environmentally friendly practices in the building and construction industry. Property sector. They provide a framework for assessing and minimising the environmental, social and economic impact of buildings. At a time when climate change and the depletion of natural resources are becoming ever more pressing, such standards are becoming increasingly important.
They not only help to protect the environment, but also to improve people's quality of life by creating healthy and sustainable living spaces. The Implementation of sustainability standards is often achieved through Certification systemsthe specific Criteria and assessment methods. These systems enable architects, developers and owners to plan and implement their projects while minimising their environmental footprint.
The best-known certification systems include LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). Both systems have established themselves internationally and offer different approaches to assessing the Sustainability of buildings.
Key Takeaways
- Sustainability standards play an important role in the construction and Property sector
- LEED is a widely used certification system for sustainable construction
- BREEAM is another well-known certification system with similar objectives to LEED
- LEED and BREEAM have different Criteria and valuation methods
- The areas of application of LEED and BREEAM are diverse and widespread worldwide
LEED: An overview of the certification system
LEED was launched in the early 1990s by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and has since become one of the leading standards for sustainable building. The system evaluates buildings in various categories, including location and transport, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and interior quality.
Each of these criteria is awarded points, which add up to a total score. Depending on the number of points achieved, a building can be categorised into one of four certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum. An outstanding feature of LEED is its flexibility.
The system can be applied to different types of buildings, including residential, commercial and industrial buildings. In addition, there are special LEED versions for specific application areas such as LEED for Homes or LEED for Neighbourhood Development. This adaptability makes it possible to take into account the specific needs and challenges of different projects while maintaining high environmental standards.
BREEAM: An overview of the certification system
BREEAM was introduced in the UK in 1990 and is one of the oldest sustainability certification systems in the world. It assesses the environmental performance of buildings based on a variety of criteria, including Energy efficiencywater consumption, material selection, waste management and ecological impact. Similar to LEED, BREEAM also awards a score, which is divided into different assessment levels: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding.
A key difference between BREEAM and LEED lies in the approach to the assessment. While LEED takes a more points-based approach, BREEAM places great emphasis on taking the entire life cycle of a building into account. This means that not only the construction phase, but also the operation and subsequent disposal of the building are included in the assessment.
This comprehensive perspective enables BREEAM to provide a detailed analysis of the environmental impact of a project.
Comparison of LEED and BREEAM criteria and assessment methods
| Criteria | LEED | BREEAM |
|---|---|---|
| Energy efficiency | Yes | Yes |
| Water efficiency | Yes | Yes |
| Materials and resources | Yes | Yes |
| Environmental quality | Yes | Yes |
| Innovation | Yes | Yes |
| Valuation method | Points system | Scale from 'Pass' to 'Outstanding' |
The criteria and assessment methods of LEED and BREEAM have both similarities and differences. Both systems assess aspects such as energy efficiency, water management and material selection, but the specific requirements and weighting of these criteria vary considerably. LEED, for example, places a strong focus on innovative approaches to Energy saving while BREEAM focuses more on life cycle costs and long-term sustainability. Sustainability of a building.
Another important difference is the type of assessment. LEED uses a points system in which points are awarded for various sustainable measures. BREEAM, on the other hand, uses a system of credits in which certain requirements must be met in order to receive points.
These differences can have an impact on the way architects and building owners plan and realise their projects. While LEED is often seen as more flexible, BREEAM offers a more detailed analysis of the environmental impact over the entire life cycle of a building.
Areas of application and dissemination of LEED and BREEAM
LEED has spread internationally and is recognised as the standard for sustainable construction in many countries. LEED is particularly widespread in the USA, but the system is also becoming increasingly important in Europe and Asia. The flexibility of LEED makes it possible to apply it to different types of buildings, which contributes to its broad acceptance.
Many large companies and public institutions rely on LEED certification as part of their sustainability strategies. BREEAM, on the other hand, has its roots in the UK, where it is the most widely used certification system for sustainable construction. However, it has also established itself internationally, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
BREEAM's comprehensive approach to environmental performance assessment makes it particularly attractive for projects with a strong focus on life cycle costs and long-term sustainability. In many cases, BREEAM is also seen as a prerequisite for public sector contracts in the UK.
Advantages and disadvantages of LEED compared to BREEAM
LEED offers numerous Advantagesincluding its international recognition and flexibility in application to different building types. The opportunity to develop innovative approaches to Energy saving promotes creative solutions in the Construction. In addition, the LEED points system is easy to understand and enables clear communication of the sustainability goals achieved.
On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages of LEED. Critics often argue that the system is too focussed on short-term measures and does not take sufficient account of long-term effects. In addition, the certification process can be time-consuming and costly, which can be a hurdle for smaller projects in particular.
BREEAM, on the other hand, scores points with its comprehensive consideration of the entire life cycle of a building. This enables a detailed analysis of the ecological impact over a longer period of time. However, one disadvantage could be that the system is more complex than LEED and may require more expertise to fulfil the requirements.
Case studies and examples of successful applications of LEED and BREEAM
A notable example of a successful LEED-certified building is One World Trade Centre in New York City. This iconic building received the LEED GoldCertification for its energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials. The integration of green technologies such as a state-of-the-art heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC) and a rainwater utilisation system demonstrates the project's commitment to sustainability.
On the other hand, The Edge in Amsterdam is an outstanding example of a BREEAM-certified building. It was awarded the highest BREEAM rating of "Outstanding" and is recognised as one of the most sustainable office buildings in the world. The use of recycled materials, a sophisticated energy efficiency strategy and innovative water management systems contribute to the building's high environmental performance.
Conclusion: Which certification system is best suited for which purpose?
The choice between LEED and BREEAM depends heavily on the specific requirements of a project. LEED is particularly suitable for projects with a strong focus on innovative energy solutions and international recognition. It is ideal for building owners who are looking for flexibility and want to realise their projects quickly.
BREEAM, on the other hand, offers a more in-depth analysis of the environmental impact over the entire life cycle of a building. It is particularly suitable for projects with a long-term focus on sustainability and life cycle costs. The decision for the right certification system should therefore be carefully considered in order to fulfil the specific objectives of the project.
FAQs
What is LEED?
LEED stands for "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design" and is a certification system for sustainable buildings that was developed in the USA.
What is BREEAM?
BREEAM stands for "Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method" and is a certification system for sustainable buildings that was developed in the UK.
What are the objectives of LEED and BREEAM?
The aims of LEED and BREEAM are to promote sustainable construction and reduce the environmental impact of buildings by assessing and Certification sustainable building practices.
How are buildings certified according to LEED and BREEAM?
Buildings are assessed according to LEED and BREEAM on the basis of a series of criteria that take into account aspects such as energy efficiency, water consumption, materials, interior quality and location. Depending on the fulfilment of the criteria, buildings are awarded a specific certification level.
What are the differences between LEED and BREEAM?
LEED and BREEAM have different origins and were developed in different countries. They therefore have different focuses and criteria, although their objectives are similar. LEED is widely used in the USA, while BREEAM is mainly used in Europe.
What are the advantages of LEED and BREEAM-certified buildings?
LEED and BREEAM-certified buildings have proven to have lower operating costs, better indoor quality and a lower environmental impact compared to conventional buildings. They can also create a positive image for owners and users.
