BREEAM Sustainability Newsletter, November
In this edition, we reveal the findings of our recent poll on the most effective strategies for enhancing Indoor Environmental Quality. We also share details of IMPACT, a specification that could earn you credits within comprehensive building assessment schemes.
Discover the insights from our consultation on BREEAM version 7, see highlights from the #BREEAM China Awards 2023 and find out how BRE is using #SmartWaste at the BRE Science Park. Plus, explore our latest courses, events and career opportunities.
In last month's poll we asked
What do you think is the most effective way to improve indoor air quality in urban environments?
We asked the same question to our LinkedIn audience and got similar results. Most respondents consider the improvement of ventilation through natural and mechanical systems as the best approach. This suggests a recognition of the importance of good ventilation systems in maintaining a healthy indoor environment, particularly in densely populated urban areas where air quality is easily compromised.
The next biggest respondent group highlighted the need for raising awareness about #IEQ. This emphasises the key role of education in promoting healthier indoor environments.
The remaining respondents pointed to embracing nature and limiting smoking as key strategies. This indicates an appreciation for natural solutions like indoor plants, which can help purify the air, and the need for policies to control smoking in indoor spaces.
Overall, these results highlight the need for a multifaceted approach to improving indoor air quality, combining technical solutions, educational initiatives, and lifestyle changes.
Join our next discussion
With 2024 around the corner, we wanted to gather your thoughts about:
Which sustainable construction trend do you think
will have the most impact in 2024?
Insight and opinion
COP28 UAE highlights climate action needed
This year’s COP 28 takes place as BREEAM’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with many of the goals which will be discussed over the next few weeks at the conference in Dubai.
BREEAM aims to provide actionable solutions and a framework for sustainable development that resonates with the urgent need for climate action.
Industry updates
We share your feedback on BREEAM Version 7
Thank you to everyone who took part in our BREEAM Version 7 consultation in June. The results have now been published. 73% of respondents voted to ensure that BREEAM's upfront and embodied carbon benchmarks aligns with external initiatives (such as BECD, LETI and RIBA ),
72% said BREEAM should measure performance and award credits against both Upfront Cabon and Embodied Carbon benchmarks.
Download the consultation report to explore more key insights and outcomes from the consultation, as well as the benefits of BREEAM V7 for built environment professionals from investors to building operators and occupiers. Download the report.
Meet IMPACT
IMPACT is a specification and database designed for software developers and consultants. It allows you to measure the embodied carbon of buildings through life cycle assessment (LCA), and life cycle cost (LCC) analysis in an accurate and efficient way.
What are the benefits?
IMPACT is designed to allow simple integration into 3D CAD/BIM (Building Information Management) software tools or bespoke LCA applications. The results generated by IMPACT can be used to award credits within whole building assessment schemes like BREEAM and ensures a consistent application of LCA across the industry.
Learn more about the benefits and benchmarks IMPACT can help you achieve here.
A recap of our recent BREEAM China Awards 2023
The 2023 BRE China Awards recently concluded in Shanghai, celebrating exceptional contributions to sustainability through BREEAM.
The event acknowledged those leading the way in environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) whilst emphasising the pivotal role of sustainable finance in addressing global sustainability challenges. It highlighted the importance of strengthening global cooperation in the construction industry, as well as the vital role that green finance plays in addressing global challenges such as climate change.
Jane Goddard, Director of Corporate Affairs at BRE Group, reiterated BRE’s firm commitment to the Chinese market and its dedication to leading green initiatives. Chris Dunn, Deputy Director of Environment, Infrastructure and Transport team for the UK Government's Department for Business and trade in China, noted the importance of sustainable construction and the necessity of achieving net zero.
For more information about why this is a great step towards a sustainable future, read the full article here.
Recommended by LinkedIn
Addressing construction industry pain points with SmartWaste V11
The latest version of SmartWaste released last month continues to see SmartWaste evolve and innovate in its 25th anniversary year.
With enhanced reporting capabilities, new API enhancements and the addition of new waste types along with the waste data log download features, Version 11 allows you to upload your monthly raw data instantly to measure consumption over time.
Discover how SmartWaste V11 is being actively used at BRE’s Science Park in Watford here.
NABERS transition update
BRE and NABERS announced in September that BRE is ending its licence agreement for the energy performance rating tool, NABERS UK, in order to focus on its world-leading BREEAM scheme. Since then, we have worked together to deliver continuity and a smooth transition for NABERS UK.
As part of this transition, please take note that BRE will no longer be processing new NABERS UK assessor licence applications, Energy for Office project registrations or rating submissions, and new Design for Performance applications from 15th December 2023.
Please be assured that there is no impact to projects already registered, and we will continue to support existing assessors and clients with any project specific enquiries until further notice.
In the meantime, NABERS are working to onboard the new scheme administrator, and there will be an update on this to follow shortly. Please reach out to nabersuk@bregroup.com with any queries.
BREEAM Infrastructure on Norway’s future transport projects
We recently welcomed the 12-strong Nye Veier Team to our BRE Science Park. The collaboration with BREEAM Infrastructure on Norway’s future transport projects opened avenues for innovative solutions that positively impact the climate and environment.
The joint effort promises substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and a noteworthy gain in biodiversity, aligning with our dedication to sustainable development.
Engagement and learning
Become a Site Sustainability Manager
Aimed at site-based managers and other individuals with influence over building site activities, our Site Sustainability Manager (SSM) course equips participants to lead sustainability efforts on construction sites.
For BREEAM-assessed projects, the involvement of a qualified SSM (BREEAM AP – Site) earns BREEAM credits in the Management category, with additional credits achievable by monitoring and limiting site impacts.
Upcoming virtual classroom course date:
- 4 January 2024
Lead the way to greener infrastructure projects
BRE Academy’s BREEAM Infrastructure Projects Assessor training qualifies learners as BREEAM Infrastructure Assessors, enabling them to influence and assess sustainability across civil engineering projects.
With more than 15 years of operational experience, BREEAM Infrastructure adopts best practice to drive improvements on projects. This may be through whole-life costing, waste minimisation, resource efficiency, or climate change adaptation measures.
Upcoming virtual classroom course dates:
- 13-14 December 2023
- 10-11 January 2024
Work for BRE
BRE’s expertise is used to tackle some of today’s toughest global challenges, specifically in sustainability, safety and security of buildings and infrastructure.
As part of our team, you’ll be joining ambitious colleagues, intent on doing the right thing by finding solutions to these problems.
Work at BRE is interesting, innovative and incredibly valuable. You’ll have the opportunity to keep developing your knowledge and skills to continue your professional development throughout your career with us.
Here are some of our current vacancies:
- Laboratory Technician (Talent Pool)
- Testing Technician - Built Environment
- Senior Commercial & Operations Manager
- Certification Scheme Manager
- International Lead Auditor
- Senior Finance Business Partner - FTC 16 Months
- Senior Systems Accountant - FTC 16 Months
- Finance Manager - FTC 13 Months
- Passive Installers Auditor
- Operations Support Coordinator - Glasgow
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