BREEAM & LEED and Green roofs
What are BREEAM and LEED?
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
BREEAM is a leading sustainability certification developed in the UK, assessing the environmental performance of buildings. It rates projects on factors like energy efficiency, water management, and biodiversity. BREEAM certification levels include Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and Outstanding.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
LEED is a globally recognized green building certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). It evaluates the sustainability of buildings based on various criteria, including site development, water efficiency, energy use, and materials. Certification levels include Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
How do green roofs support BREEAM & LEED certification?
Green roofs contribute significantly to earning points in both BREEAM and LEED systems. They help fulfill specific sustainability criteria, boosting overall certification scores. Here’s how they align with key assessment categories
Sustainable Site Development (LEED) & Land Use and Ecology (BREEAM)
Green roofs optimize land use by creating vegetated spaces in urban areas. They reduce environmental impact by enhancing biodiversity and minimizing soil erosion. Both certification systems reward features like:
- Reducing the urban heat island effect
- Supporting local biodiversity with native plants
- Managing stormwater runoff
LEED Credits: Sustainable Sites (SS), Rainwater Management
BREEAM Points: Land Use and Ecology, Surface Water Runoff
Water Efficiency
Green roofs retain and filter rainwater, reducing pressure on drainage systems. They lower potable water use for irrigation through rainwater harvesting systems. BREEAM and LEED both value water conservation through:
- Installing efficient irrigation systems
- Using drought-tolerant plants
- Reducing water runoff into municipal sewers
LEED Credits: Water Efficiency (WE)
BREEAM Points: Water Management, Pollution Control
Energy Efficiency
Green roofs provide natural insulation, reducing a building’s need for heating and cooling. This translates into lower energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, earning points for:
- Improved thermal performance
- Reduced HVAC system load
- Lower energy bills
LEED Credits: Energy & Atmosphere (EA), Heat Island Reduction
BREEAM Points: Energy, Materials, Management
Materials & Resources
Sustainable materials used in the green roof layers, such as recycled growing media or eco-friendly membranes, help projects achieve higher sustainability scores. Certifications consider:
- Use of recycled and sustainable materials
- Waste reduction through on-site composting
- Durable, long-lasting construction
LEED Credits: Materials & Resources (MR)
BREEAM Points: Material Specification, Waste Management
Why use green roofs for certification?
- Higher Scores: Earn more points toward BREEAM and LEED certification.
- Energy Savings: Reduce energy bills and extend roof lifespan.
- Eco-Friendly Impact: Support biodiversity and improve urban air quality.
- CSR & Brand Value: Demonstrate corporate responsibility and sustainability leadership.