LEED and BREEAM Certification Schemes

What are LEED and BREEAM certifications?

LEED and BREEAM are certification programs promoting sustainable design and construction, developed by the USGBC and UK's BRE, respectively. Used globally, they cater to specific markets and appeal to various stakeholders. Assessment frameworks track certified buildings, awarding points for environmental performance. Both certifications focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.

What are the similarities and differences between the two schemes?

LEED and BREEAM are certification programs with similarities and differences. 

Both use point-based systems, evolving requirements, and award credits for various sustainability aspects. However, LEED offers Silver/Gold/Platinum certification, while BREEAM uses pass/good/very good/excellent/outstanding ratings. 

LEED historically focuses on energy efficiency, while BREEAM also considers health, well-being, materials, and transport. 

Both are adaptable to different building types and lifecycle stages, but BREEAM is more popular in Europe and the Middle East, while LEED is prevalent in the US and Canada. 

Additionally, different data sets may be required for reporting and calculations. Both programs require accredited professionals to assist with certification.

What are the more specific consumption and energy management frameworks?

Energy Star (US) and NABERS (Australia) are energy consumption-focused sustainability rating systems, measuring operational energy use. They provide publicly available building ratings, affecting capital expenditure and valuation. NABERS, now introduced in the UK, also covers water and waste. 

Similar schemes, like France's OPERAT, enable simple building comparisons, driving performance improvement and influencing financial assumptions in the investment market.