BREEAM v7: Raising the Bar for Green Commercial Properties

 

As businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, the standards for green buildings are continually evolving. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), a leading global certification for sustainable construction, is launching its updated version, BREEAM New Construction v7, with a transitional period beginning September 30, 2025. This comprehensive update is designed to align commercial properties with the most stringent environmental regulations, including the EU Taxonomy, and will redefine what it means to rent a truly sustainable office or warehouse space.

 

Key Changes in BREEAM v7 and What They Mean for Your Business

 

BREEAM v7 isn't just an incremental update; it represents a significant leap forward in sustainable building design and operation. Here's a breakdown of the crucial changes and how they will benefit your business when seeking rental space:

 

Mandatory Operational Decarbonization for Top Ratings

 

For buildings aiming for the highest "Outstanding" rating, operational decarbonization will become mandatory. This means properties will be designed and operated to significantly reduce their carbon footprint, leading to:

 

  • Lower Operating Costs: Reduced energy consumption directly translates to lower utility bills for your business.
  • Enhanced Brand Reputation: Associating your brand with a truly net-zero or low-carbon building strengthens your commitment to sustainability.
  • Future-Proofing: Your rental space will be compliant with anticipated future carbon regulations, protecting your business from potential penalties.

 

Increased Focus on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

 

BREEAM v7 places greater emphasis on the full life cycle environmental impact of a building. This holistic approach ensures that not only is the building efficient in operation, but its construction and materials also minimize environmental harm. For tenants, this contributes to:

 

  • Healthier Indoor Environments: Buildings constructed with sustainable materials often feature better air quality and fewer harmful chemicals.
  • Long-Term Sustainability: Demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship from the ground up, aligning with your corporate ESG goals.

 

Climate Resilience and Adaptation

 

The new standard awards more points for measures that adapt buildings to and build resilience against climate change. This includes strategies for managing extreme weather, water scarcity, and heatwaves, ensuring your workspace remains comfortable and operational regardless of environmental challenges.

 

Data Transparency and Digital Modeling (BIM)

 

BREEAM v7 increases the focus on data transparency, information management, and digital modeling (BIM). This means more robust data on a building's performance is available, offering businesses greater insight into:

 

  • Verifiable Performance: Access to real data on energy use, water consumption, and indoor environmental quality.
  • Smarter Operations: Buildings managed with BIM are often more efficient and easier to maintain, leading to a better tenant experience.

 

Alignment with ESG and EU Taxonomy

 

A critical update is the full alignment of BREEAM v7 with broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) requirements, including the EU Taxonomy and GRESB standards. For businesses, this means:

 

  • Meeting Corporate ESG Objectives: Leasing a BREEAM v7 certified space directly supports your company's sustainability reporting and targets.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensures your business operations within the building are aligned with stringent EU environmental criteria, which is becoming increasingly important for access to finance and investor relations.

 

Why Renting BREEAM Certified Space is a Smart Business Move

 

With over 2000 BREEAM certified buildings in Poland alone, these properties are proven assets. Opting for a BREEAM v7 certified office or warehouse is more than just an environmental choice; it's a strategic business decision that offers multiple advantages:

 

  • Enhanced Brand Image: Showcase your commitment to sustainability to clients, partners, and employees.
  • Attract and Retain Talent: Employees are increasingly seeking workplaces that align with their values and offer a healthy, comfortable environment.
  • Operational Efficiency & Cost Savings: Benefit from lower utility costs and optimized building performance.
  • Future-Proofing Your Operations: Stay ahead of evolving environmental regulations and market demands.
  • Access to Green Finance: Operating from certified green buildings can positively impact your company's eligibility for sustainable financing options.

 

Preparing Your Business for the Future of Sustainable Workspaces

 

As the commercial real estate market moves towards higher sustainability standards, understanding and prioritizing BREEAM v7 certified properties will be crucial for businesses seeking to thrive. These buildings offer a competitive edge, aligning your operations with global environmental goals and providing a healthier, more efficient, and future-ready environment for your employees.

 

Source: propertynews.pl