Skip to content 
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) are two of the best-known certification systems for sustainable construction worldwide. LEED was developed in the USA and has become a leading standard for environmentally friendly buildings since its introduction in 1998. It provides a comprehensive assessment of buildings in terms of Energy efficiencywater management, choice of materials and interior quality.
BREEAM on the other hand, originated in the United Kingdom and was introduced in 1990. It is considered to be the first sustainable rating system for buildings and has also spread internationally. Both systems aim to minimise the environmental impact of buildings and improve the quality of life of their users, but differ in their approaches and the way they are applied. Criteria.
The importance of LEED and BREEAM is growing steadily as more and more builders, architects and investors recognise the need to integrate sustainable practices into the construction process. These certifications are not only a sign of environmentally conscious behaviour, but can also provide economic benefits. Advantages such as lower operating costs and greater market appeal. At a time when climate change and the depletion of natural resources are becoming increasingly urgent, LEED and BREEAM provide a structured framework for assuming environmental responsibility while increasing the value of property.
The choice between these two systems often depends on regional circumstances, specific project requirements and the objectives of the stakeholders.
Key Takeaways
- LEED and BREEAM are two of the best-known certification systems for sustainable construction.
- The LEED and BREEAM certification criteria and assessment systems focus on various aspects of Sustainability.
- The categories and focal points of the two systems differ, with LEED focussing more strongly on Energy efficiency and BREEAM is focussed on ecological aspects.
- Building design and construction must fulfil certain requirements in order to meet the Certification according to LEED or BREEAM.
- The Certification according to LEED or BREEAM has a positive impact on the environment and the Sustainability of buildings.
Certification criteria and evaluation systems
LEED and BREEAM certification criteria
The LEED and BREEAM certification criteria are comprehensive and cover various aspects of construction. LEED evaluates projects based on several categories, including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and interior quality. Each of these Criteria is awarded points that add up to a total score.
LEED certification categories
Depending on the number of points achieved, the building is categorised in one of four categories: Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum. This clear structure enables building owners to work specifically on the areas that are most relevant to their projects.
BREEAM certification criteria
BREEAM, on the other hand, uses a similar points system, but with a slightly different focus. The assessment is carried out in categories such as management, health and well-being, energy, transport, water, materials, waste, land use and ecological diversity as well as environmental pollution. Here, too, an overall score is determined, which leads to a classification into different assessment levels: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding.
Advantages of BREEAM
The flexibility of BREEAM allows users to take into account specific local circumstances and requirements, making it particularly attractive for projects in different geographical regions.
Differences in the categories and focal points
Although both LEED and BREEAM pursue similar goals, there are significant differences in their categories and focal points. LEED places a strong focus on energy efficiency and reducing a building's environmental footprint. The "Energy and Atmosphere" category is particularly weighted and encourages builders to use innovative technologies to reduce the environmental footprint of a building. Energy saving to implement.
In addition, the use of renewable energies is also strongly encouraged. This focus makes LEED particularly attractive for projects that concentrate on improving energy efficiency. BREEAM, on the other hand, has a broader approach and also takes into account social aspects such as the health and well-being of users.
The "health and well-being" category is a central component of the BREEAM system and aims to create a healthy indoor climate. This includes aspects such as daylight utilisation, air quality and acoustic comfort. BREEAM also attaches great importance to the consideration of local biodiversity and the ecological impact of a project on the environment.
These different focuses are reflected in the respective assessment approaches and offer building owners the opportunity to select the system that best suits their specific objectives.
Requirements for building design and construction
| Requirements | Building design | Building construction |
|---|---|---|
| Energy efficiency | Optimisation the shape and orientation of the building, use of thermal insulation | Use of energy-efficient building materials, installation of efficient heating and cooling systems |
| Sustainability | Use of recyclable materials, integration of renewable energies | Reduction of resource consumption, recycling of building materials |
| Security | Installation of fire protection measures, barrier-free design | Stability of the construction, consideration of earthquake safety |
| Comfort | Optimum room design, good lighting and ventilation | Effective sound insulation, pleasant room climate |
The requirements for the design and construction of buildings also vary between LEED and BREEAM. With LEED, architects and engineers must ensure that their designs fulfil certain standards in order to collect points in the various categories. This can include, for example, the use of environmentally friendly materials or the Implementation of energy-efficient systems.
The requirements are clearly defined and provide structured guidance for the planning and execution of construction projects. In contrast, BREEAM offers more flexibility in terms of building design requirements. Whilst there are also specific criteria, these can be customised depending on the project type and location.
This enables planners to develop innovative solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of the project. BREEAM also promotes a holistic view of the life cycle of a building, which means that aspects such as Maintenance and deconstruction should be included in the planning. These different approaches to the design of buildings can be decisive for the choice of a suitable certification system.
Impact on the environment and sustainability
The impact of LEED and BREEAM on the environment and sustainability is significant. Both systems help to reduce the environmental footprint of buildings and promote sustainable practices in the construction sector. Construction to promote. Through the Implementation The use of the criteria from these certification systems enables building owners not only to reduce their operating costs, but also to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
LEED, for example, promotes the use of renewable energies and energy-efficient technologies, which leads directly to a reduction in energy consumption. BREEAM, on the other hand, places a strong focus on considering the ecological impact of a building on its surroundings. By promoting biodiversity and sustainable land use, BREEAM helps to ensure that new construction projects are not only environmentally friendly, but can also have positive effects on local ecosystems.
Both systems therefore have the potential not only to make individual buildings more sustainable, but also to have a broader impact on urban centres. Developments and regional environmental strategies.
Costs and time required for certification
The costs and time required for LEED or BREEAM certification can vary considerably and depend on various factors. With LEED, building owners must expect costs that include both the application fees and the costs for implementing the required measures. These costs can vary greatly depending on the size of the project and the desired level of certification.
It is also important to note that additional time must be allowed for the preparation of the required documentation. BREEAM can have similar cost structures; however, there is often more room for customisation depending on project requirements. The flexibility of the system can mean that certain measures can be implemented more cost-effectively than with LEED.
Nevertheless, it is important to emphasise that both LEED and BREEAM are an investment in the The future represent. The initial costs can be offset by long-term savings in operating costs and greater market appeal.
Recognition and dissemination in various regions
The recognition and prevalence of LEED and BREEAM varies greatly depending on the region. In the USA, LEED is the dominant certification system for sustainable construction and is required or favoured by many government agencies and private investors. Its widespread acceptance has led to many construction projects in the USA being specifically geared towards LEED certification.
In Europe, however, BREEAM has a strong presence, particularly in the UK, where it is recognised as the standard for sustainable construction. In other regions of the world, efforts are being made to introduce both systems or to develop local alternatives. In Asia, for example, both LEED and BREEAM are gaining ground, while countries such as Australia have developed their own certification systems.
These different approaches are reflected in the respective market conditions and show the growing awareness of sustainable construction worldwide.
Future prospects and developments in the certification landscape
The future prospects for LEED and BREEAM are promising, as awareness of sustainability in the Construction continues to increase. Both systems are constantly evolving to meet the changing requirements of the market. For example, new criteria are being introduced to better address current challenges such as climate change or social justice.
This adaptability is crucial for the relevance of both systems in a rapidly changing world. In addition, there are efforts to harmonise certification systems at a global level. Collaborative initiatives between different organisations could lead to the harmonisation of standards or the creation of new systems that combine the best of existing approaches.
This could not only reduce the complexity for building owners, but also help to promote sustainable construction in a more standardised way worldwide. In this context, it remains to be seen how LEED and BREEAM will develop and what new trends will emerge in the area of sustainable construction. Architecture will arise.
English (UK)