How Construction Firms Can Avoid Fines for Environmental Non-Compliance
The construction industry is subject to various key regulations that govern its operations. These regulations aim to ensure safety, quality, and compliance in construction projects. Some of the key regulations include building codes (the minimum standards for construction), zoning regulations (regulations dictate how land can be used and what types of structures can be built […]
Creating Effective Training Schedules for BREEAM (Man04.4)
Introduction The design and construction of sustainable buildings are only half the story. Ensuring that the building performs as intended—and earns those valuable BREEAM credits—relies heavily on how it’s operated after handover. Under BREEAM’s Management category (Man 04.4), training building users and facilities staff is essential. It ensures systems are used correctly, energy and water […]
Common BREEAM challenges and how to overcome them
Common BREEAM challenges and how to overcome them As the world becomes increasingly conscious of environmental concerns, construction projects must be designed and executed with sustainability in mind. An essential instrument for assessing and verifying the sustainability efficiency of buildings is the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM). BREEAM aims to evaluate and certify […]
Addressing Section 106 Obligations in BREEAM Projects: What Clients Should Know
Introduction Section 106 (S106) agreements are legally binding planning obligations used to mitigate the impact of development, often including financial contributions, community facilities, and sustainability initiatives. In BREEAM projects, S106 obligations can significantly influence the delivery of credits, project timelines, and long-term sustainability outcomes. Clients, developers, and design teams need to understand how these obligations […]
Achieving BREEAM Waste Credits in Refurbishment Projects
Introduction Refurbishment projects are central to the UK’s drive for sustainable development, aligning with net-zero commitments and the circular economy. However, these projects often face challenges in managing waste efficiently, given the constraints of existing structures, material limitations, and tight timelines. Achieving BREEAM Waste Credits in refurbishment projects is not only essential for environmental performance […]
Understanding Environmental Impact Assessment in Construction
What is Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)? EIA is a multi-staged process that evaluates the environmental impacts of a proposed project or development on the environment, people and society. Through EIA, measures to reduce or avoid impacts can be found in addition to finding reasonable alternatives to the project. The output of an EIA is an […]
How to achieve BREEAM accreditation for your project
What is BREEAM? BREEAM is the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, utilised in master planning projects, buildings, and infrastructure. This sustainability assessment method was established in 1990 by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) and can be applied to refurbishment schemes or new developments. The standards for environmental performance of buildings through each phase of […]
Are Site Waste Management Plans Still Required?
Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) A Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) is used to plan, implement, monitor and review waste minimization and management in construction and demolition sites. SWMP helps to describe the procedures by which wastes will be handled and lists the methods needed to minimize waste, responsibly manage produced waste, measure quantities and […]
BREEAM UK New Construction: Residential – Elevating Sustainability Standards
On April 16, 2025, the Building Research Establishment (BRE) launched BREEAM UK New Construction: Residential V6.1, replacing the Home Quality Mark (HQM). This update aligns residential sustainability assessments with BREEAM’s globally recognized standards. Highlights of BREEAM UK New Construction: Residential V6.1 Whole-Life Performance Approach: Assessing environmental, social, and economic sustainability from design through operation. Enhanced […]
Waste Charges Consultation: Understanding the Environment Agency’s Proposed Regulatory Changes
The Environment Agency has launched a consultation on new regulatory charges for specific waste activities, aiming to update and refine existing charging structures. These proposals, if approved, are set to take effect from April 2025, impacting waste management operators, businesses, and environmental stakeholders. The consultation, which began in November 2024, is designed to gather feedback […]
