Can Plants Achieve BREEAM?

For developers and managers striving to make their spaces environmentally friendly, achieving BREEAM certification (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) has become a gold standard. But while energy-efficient systems and innovative materials dominate conversations around sustainability, plants are quietly emerging as key players. So, can plants help a building achieve BREEAM? The answer is a resounding yes.

What Is BREEAM and Why Does It Matter?

BREEAM is a leading global standard for assessing the sustainability of buildings. Developed in the UK, it evaluates a building’s environmental, social, and economic performance based on several criteria, including energy efficiency, health and wellbeing, water management, and biodiversity.

Buildings that achieve BREEAM certification are recognised for having reduced environmental impacts, lower operational costs, and enhanced appeal to tenants and investors. As awareness of sustainability grows, these certified buildings are increasingly in demand.

Incorporating greenery and biophilic design—a key trend in modern architecture—can support several aspects of BREEAM certification. Plants contribute to healthier, more sustainable buildings while addressing critical assessment areas.

How Plants Contribute to BREEAM Criteria

Plants aren’t just decorative—they’re functional elements of sustainable design that align with multiple BREEAM categories:

• Health and Wellbeing
  Indoor plants improve air quality by filtering toxins and boosting oxygen levels. Their calming presence also reduces stress and improves occupant comfort, which supports the health and wellbeing category. Green walls and potted plants in common areas can directly contribute to higher occupant satisfaction scores.
• Biodiversity
  Outdoor plants, particularly native species, promote biodiversity by supporting local ecosystems. A thoughtfully designed landscape featuring wildflowers, shrubs, and trees can earn points under the ecology section of BREEAM. Even small green spaces or rooftop gardens make a difference.
• Energy Efficiency
  Strategically placed plants can regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for air conditioning or heating. Green walls and rooftop gardens provide natural insulation, helping to lower energy consumption—a key factor in achieving BREEAM points for energy efficiency.
• Water Management
  Using drought-tolerant plants in outdoor landscaping supports water conservation efforts, aligning with water efficiency goals. Combined with irrigation systems that recycle rainwater, this strategy helps meet BREEAM’s requirements for responsible water management.

Examples of Plant Integration in BREEAM Projects

Greenery is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of BREEAM-certified projects. For example, a London office complex achieved a BREEAM “Excellent” rating by integrating living walls, rooftop gardens, and biodiversity-friendly outdoor spaces. These features not only improved the building’s sustainability credentials but also improved tenant satisfaction.

In another case, a shopping centre incorporated green roofs and planters throughout public areas, significantly boosting its health and wellbeing score while also reducing energy use.

These examples highlight how plants can be seamlessly integrated into both indoor and outdoor environments to meet BREEAM’s multifaceted criteria. Working with professional consultants to select the right greenery ensures that each plant serves a specific purpose, from air purification to temperature regulation.

Plants as Key to Sustainable Design

Plants play an essential role in helping buildings achieve BREEAM certification. They improve occupant health, support biodiversity, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to water management—all critical aspects of the assessment.

For facilities managers, designers, and developers aiming to build sustainably, integrating greenery isn’t just an aesthetic choice—it’s a strategic move. Consider plants as a vital component of your sustainability efforts and take a significant step towards achieving BREEAM certification.