BREEAM — the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method — has become the de facto standard for measuring the sustainability performance of commercial buildings in the UK. For logistics operators and property investors, understanding BREEAM is increasingly essential. Here is what you need to know.
BREEAM Explained
BREEAM is a sustainability assessment method that evaluates the environmental performance of buildings across nine categories: management, health and wellbeing, energy, transport, water, materials, waste, land use and ecology, and pollution. Each category contains a series of credits that can be achieved through specific design and construction measures. The total number of credits achieved determines the building’s BREEAM rating: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, or Outstanding.
The assessment is conducted by a licensed BREEAM assessor who evaluates the building’s design and construction against the scheme’s criteria. For new-build projects, the assessment typically takes place in two stages — a design stage assessment during the planning phase, and a post-construction assessment once the building is complete.
Why BREEAM Matters for Logistics
BREEAM certification is increasingly demanded by institutional investors who require evidence of environmental performance for their portfolios, major occupiers with corporate sustainability commitments, planning authorities who may condition planning consent on achieving a minimum BREEAM rating, and funding bodies who offer preferential terms for certified green buildings. A BREEAM Excellent or Outstanding rating enhances the marketability, rental value, and long-term investment performance of a logistics facility. It also demonstrates a tangible commitment to environmental responsibility that resonates with customers, employees, and stakeholders.
Achieving BREEAM Credits in Warehouse Construction
Certain BREEAM credits are particularly relevant — and achievable — for logistics buildings. Energy credits can be secured through enhanced insulation, efficient lighting (LED with daylight harvesting), renewable energy generation (rooftop solar PV), and building management systems that optimise energy use. Water credits are achieved through rainwater harvesting, water-efficient fixtures, and leak detection systems. Materials credits recognise the use of responsibly sourced materials, recycled content, and environmental product declarations. Waste credits reward construction site waste management, achieving high diversion rates from landfill.
FcMig’s BREEAM Experience
FcMig provides BREEAM advisory as part of our construction and consulting services. We guide clients through the assessment process, identify the most cost-effective credits for their project, and ensure that the design and construction teams are aligned on delivering the required sustainability outcomes. Our recent projects have achieved BREEAM Excellent ratings, and we are actively pursuing Outstanding on current schemes. Contact us to discuss how BREEAM certification can enhance the value and performance of your next logistics facility.
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