In the field of sustainable construction and occupant well-being, BREEAM and WELL are two certifications that stand out for their complementary approaches. BREEAM, acronym for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, focuses on the overall environmental impact of a building. On the other hand, the WELL certification, developed by the International WELL Building Institute, primarily concentrates on the health and well-being of occupants.
BREEAM evaluates several aspects of sustainability, such as energy efficiency, water management, material use, waste management, transport, ecology, and pollution. Its methodology is based on a rigorous set of performance indicators designed to reduce a building’s carbon footprint while adhering to advanced ecological standards. The idea is to promote a responsible life cycle for constructions, thus encouraging a minimization of negative environmental impacts.
In contrast, WELL revolves around seven key concepts: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mental well-being. This certification aims to create an optimal indoor environment for building users. For example, WELL considers the importance of indoor air quality or access to natural light as factors directly influencing occupants’ morale and productivity. WELL’s criteria are based on medical and scientific research to ensure spaces that promote a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
The combination of these certifications offers a holistic view of sustainable construction, balancing ecological needs with those of the people who live and work in these buildings. A real estate project certified both BREEAM and WELL thus commits to being both environmentally friendly and attentive to the well-being of its users. In short, when a project aims to combine environmental sustainability and occupant health, evaluating these two certifications proves essential.