What’s New in BREEAM v7? | BREEAM v6 vs v7 Key Changes Explained
BREEAM Version 7 marks one of the most significant updates to the world’s leading sustainability assessment method for buildings. In this video, we break down exactly what’s changed compared to BREEAM v6 — and what these changes mean for your projects.
What’s new in BREEAM v7:
✅ Stricter Standards
Assessment criteria have been tightened across the board. To achieve top ratings such as Excellent or Outstanding, projects must now meet more demanding minimum requirements, raising the bar for sustainable building performance.
🌍 Carbon Front and Centre
Unlike v6, BREEAM v7 places carbon reduction — both operational and embodied — at the core of the framework. It’s no longer just a consideration; it’s a key driver of the assessment process.
⚡ Energy Efficiency Matters More
Energy performance now carries greater weighting, and reliance on fossil fuels on-site is being actively discouraged. The focus is on cleaner, smarter, and more future-proof energy solutions.
🏗️ Whole Life Cycle Thinking
BREEAM v7 puts greater emphasis on the entire building life cycle, from design and construction through to day-to-day use. This approach ensures buildings perform better for longer, not just at handover, but throughout their lifespan.
The Result?
A more rigorous benchmark that pushes project teams to design and deliver buildings that work harder, last longer, and leave a lighter environmental footprint.
📞 Ready to take your project further with BREEAM v7?
Encon Associates can help you navigate the new criteria with expert guidance on Life Cycle Assessments, carbon reporting, and other BREEAM services.
👉 Learn more: www.enconassociates.com
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