Last edited 18 May 2021

Main author

BRE Group Researcher Website

Building Back Better: Social impact

BREEAMSocialImpact.jpg

Contents

[edit] Introduction

In its work to provide resources for the construction sector, BREEAM has created the online briefing hub, ‘Building Back Better with BREEAM: Supporting the green recovery’. The hub gathers a collection of briefing papers that reflect BREEAM’s position on important issues.

[edit] Social impact

The BREEAM vision for a fair and appropriate built environment is one that demonstrates social sensitivity in a manner that intentionally benefits the long-term economic growth, wellbeing, resilience and inclusion of people within their communities. To reflect this vision, BREEAM has published a briefing paper, 'Encouraging positive social impact and equity using BREEAM'.

The paper outlines a vision for a socially equitable built environment based on the following practices:

[edit] Seven aspects of social value

The BREEAM standard can be applied to seven different aspects:

  1. Health and wellbeing of asset users and local communities. A built environment that ensures physical, social, intellectual and emotional wellness.
  2. Behaviour change and awareness raising. Solutions that encourage people to make the most sustainable choice.
  3. Accessibility and inclusivity. Design and operations that make environments usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible without the need for adaptation or specialised design
  4. Resilience, safety and security. Promoting practices that mitigate risks, successfully endure shocks and identify opportunities to adapt and thrive in our changing world.
  5. Asset user and community involvement and engagement. Activities that promote active participation and involvement of built environment asset users and stakeholders in decision making processes
  6. Local investment. Supporting investment in local businesses and supply chains, providing training to and upskilling of the local community and offering long-term employment opportunities to local people.
  7. Social justice and responsible leadership. Ensuring the needs of communities are fairly met with equity, diversity and inclusion at the heart of the project, and that human exploitation is eradicated.

[edit] Looking ahead

BREEAM intends to continue its work in this area by collaborating with global stakeholders to create a universal understanding of social impact - regardless of geographic and cultural differences. This will include language and guidance for successful delivery, adoption and results.

Find out more at: https://files.bregroup.com/breeam/briefingpapers/BREEAM-Social-Impact-Paper_final.pdf

--BRE Group

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