BREEAM A rating first for Flag
publication date: Jul 15, 2008
|
author/source: David Harris
As an objective measure of the environmental performance of buildings and the products used to construct them, there is now widespread awareness of the value of BREEAM assessment. Despite the voluntary nature of BREEAM schemes, many organizations have decided to use them to ensure that the environmental impact of their developments, whether new build or refurbishment, is minimised. The eight categories of assessment enable a comprehensive evaluation to be made, from initial procurement to final construction. Higher ratings are set to be introduced in early 2009, with the likely introduction of an ‘outstanding’ rating for zero-carbon structures in addition to the current ‘excellent’ rating. For individual products, an A+ rating will be introduced above the current best ‘A’ rating.
As the principal method of calculating Part L compliance in the drive towards more thermally efficient and sustainable buildings, successful BREEAM assessment is likely to have a major effect on materials specified. For the benefit of Eco Point calculation, specifiers of single ply membranes will currently find only one product with an ‘A’ rating. Flag UK’s FLAGON TPO roofing membranes combine exceptional flexibility at low temperatures with a correspondingly high puncture resistance. It is non-toxic, containing no harmful chlorine, bromine or halogen compounds. Tests were carried out relating to re-use and recovery of wastes from the manufacturing process and product to assess impact through design life to the point of disposal.
Green Guide ratings range from A to E and cover 13 aspects of potential environmental impact. Building materials and components are assessed within comparable specifications to enable comparison of, for example, roofing products with far greater assurance. The BRE Green Guide already provides an extensive catalogue of building specifications evaluating environmental performance. As products come under greater scrutiny than ever before, the profile of those having an A+ rating will undoubtedly be heightened.
