BREEAM is a tool to answer questions like ‘How will I assess sustainability in my building? And what do I need to consider?’ It’s not a goal, but a way to structure your process.
The choice between BREEAM and LEED largely depends on your project’s specific requirements and your organisation’s strategic objectives. It may also relate to the client base you serve. Both systems offer robust frameworks to improve sustainability and environmental performance. But which one should you choose—BREEAM or LEED? While both are environmental certifications, they differ in several ways:
While many companies choose one certification system, some use both. For example, our client Fugro. In 2014, Fugro opened its Tech Centre in Nootdorp, which received LEED Platinum—the highest possible certification level. As LEED Accredited Professionals, we supported them throughout the certification process.
Later, when Fugro planned its new headquarters across from the Tech Centre, we were once again engaged as sustainability advisors. In a workshop, we presented the pros and cons of both systems. The team decided to pursue BREEAM certification because of its strong presence in the Dutch construction sector. The design achieved a BREEAM Outstanding rating under the latest standard at the time—a prestigious recognition awarded only seven times in the Netherlands under that guideline.
We want to turn your sustainability goals into a reality. Green building certifications showcase your commitment to forward-thinking design and science-based carbon reduction targets.
Because data centres operate 24/7 and use high amounts of energy, they present unique challenges for sustainable construction. Within BREEAM, attention to data centres is also increasing. In the Netherlands, they are assessed using BREEAM-NL New Construction Data Centres 2012.
LEED has a dedicated certification type – LEED for Building Design + Construction (BD+C) for Data Centres. This is tailored to the specific needs of these buildings. It emphasises comprehensive building performance, promoting methods that include sustainable site development, water conservation, energy efficiency, material selection, and indoor environmental quality. It encourages operators to contemplate the entire lifecycle of the data centre, from design and construction to operation, fostering an all-encompassing approach to sustainability.
We have significant experience helping clients in Industry achieve certification. For example, we designed a new warehousing and office facility for FM Logistic near Hanoi in Vietnam. This facility is the first in the country to achieve LEED Gold certification.
In industrial settings, certification is usually sought for the parts of the building where people work, such as offices and distribution areas. We help clients define the scope and choose the most suitable certification system. While many industrial clients opt for LEED, BREEAM is also possible. Industrial halls and distribution centres fall under standard BREEAM guidelines. For non-standard buildings, BREEAM Bespoke offers the option to apply tailored requirements.
