Sustainability Flashcards
What is the difference between BREEAM and EPC?
BREEAM assessment evaluates the procurement, design, construction and operation of a development against a range of targets based on performance benchmarks. The developments are rated on a scale of unclassified to outstanding.
EPC contains information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs recommendations about how to reduce energy use and save money. An EPC gives a property an energy efficiency rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is valid for 10 years.
When is an EPC required?
Whenever a property is built, sold, rented or altered.
What is the legislation in the UK that deals with the issue of sustainability in building construction?
The Environment Act 2021
Climate Change Act 2008
Building Regulation Part L - conservation of fuel and power
Zero Carbon Homes Policy
BREEAM
What is the role of the BRE?
The role of the BRE is to deliver innovative and rigorous products, services, standards and qualifications to make buildings better for people and the environment.
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate that tells you how energy efficient a property is. It contains information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs and steps to improve a property’s energy efficiency. An EPC gives a property an energy efficiency rating from A (best) to G (worst) and is valid for 10 years.
How are the requirements BREEAM, which itself is not legally binding document, enforced?
The requirements set out in the BREEAM can be included in project specifications and be an enforceable part of the contract
What steps do you take in your business activity to ensure that your company operates in a sustainable manner?
- Promote file saving on computers and only print essential documents
Can you give me a n example of a method of sustainable construction?
Green roofs
Rainwater harvesting
Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems
Is the Code for Sustainable homes still a requirement?
No it was scrapped in 2015
What are the levels of BREEAM?
Outstanding (85%)
Excellent (70%)
Very Good (55%)
Good (45%)
Pass (30%)
Unclassified (Less than 30%)
What building regulation parts cover sustainability?
Building Regulation Part L - conservation of fuel and power
What is BREEAM?
Building research establishment environmental assessment method
International scheme that provides 3rd party certification on projects
Certification takes place at design, construction, operation and refurbishment
What are BREEAM assessment categories?
Management
Health & Wellbeing
Energy
Transport
Water
Materials
Waste
Land use and ecology
Pollution
Innovation
