BRE Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) is a voluntary environmental assessment method and rating system for green, non-domestic buildings, that was established in the UK by the Building Research Establishment (BRE).

BREEAM sets the standard for best practice in sustainable building design, construction and operation.

A broad range of categories and criteria from energy to ecology are represented. They include aspects related to energy and water use, the internal environment (health and well-being), pollution, transport, materials, waste, ecology and management processes.

Ecotects are happy to work with BREEAM assessors.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that “The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development”, and that “to achieve sustainable development, economic, social and environmental gains should be sought jointly and simultaneously”.

Ensuring the sustainable design and construction of buildings is an essential part of achieving sustainable development. Some local planning authorities are addressing the issues involved, including Brighton and Hove.

http://www.breeam.org/filelibrary/Case%20studies/Brighton__Hove%27s_Case_Study.pdf

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