BREEAM Material efficiency
Contents |
[edit] Aim and benefits
To recognise and encourage measures to optimise material efficiency in order to minimise environmental impact of material use and waste.
[edit] When to consider
At the preparation and Brief Stage, RIBA Stage 1. The credit requires decisions and actions taken at this stage to be documented for evidence. An updated or revised document should then be recorded at each key stage.
[edit] Step by step guidance
Identify opportunities to optimise the use of materials in the building design, procurement, construction, maintenance and end of life. Investigate and implement appropriate measures in line with these.
This needs to be carried out at each of the following RIBA Stages:
· Stage 1 - Preparation and Brief
· Stage 2 – Concept Design
· Stage 3 – Developed Design
· Stage 4 – Technical Design
· Stage 5 – Construction
Opportunities could include using fewer materials, reusing demolition or strip out materials and using materials with a higher recycled content. They could also include utilising off site prefabrication.
[edit] Questions to ask while seeking compliance
Has this been started at RIBA Stage 1? Whilst this may not be in the same format as later stages there does need to be something recorded on materials considerations at this stage otherwise the credit shall not be achievable.
[edit] Tools and resources
WRAP Designing out Waste: A design team guide for Buildings
BS 8895 Designing for material efficiency in building projects
[edit] Tips and best practice
Awaiting content
[edit] Typical evidence
Usually a table of considerations made at each stage, perhaps against work packages, combined with a brief report from the relevant responsible party to describe the work undertaken in this area during each stage. Provide meeting minutes, drawings, specifications etc. if referenced to show how the work has influenced the designs.
[edit] Applicable Schemes
The guidelines collated in this ISD aim to support sustainable best practice in the topic described. This issue may apply in multiple BREEAM schemes covering different stages in the life of a building, different building types and different year versions. Some content may be generic but scheme nuances should also be taken into account. Refer to the comments below and related articles to this one to understand these nuances. See this document for further guidelines.
- List applicable schemes here
BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.
Featured articles and news
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.