BREEAM Material efficiency

[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

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