Comparative analysis of certifications for Existing Buildings: LEED EBOM vs. BREEAM ES In Use

Sustainability and energy efficiency are key aspects in building management, whether commercial or residential. In this context, two internationally recognised certifications for existing buildings are LEED O&M and BREEAM In-Use. This article provides essential information about both certifications, highlighting their similarities and differences.

En Evaluate, we believe that there is no certification better than the other, but rather that each one can be adapted to a specific project or owner. We also maintain that obtaining either certification drives the transformation of the building or management, making them more environmentally friendly and simultaneously increasing their value.

Source: Hotel Silken Al-Andalus Palace certified BREEAM ES In Use. Edited by Evalore

LEED and BREEAM context

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) stand as leading benchmarks in sustainable construction. LEED, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, and BREEAM, originating from the UK's Building Research Establishment, are valuable tools for assessing and certifying the sustainability of buildings. These frameworks not only set exceptional standards for energy efficiency and environmental respect, but also encourage the creation of spaces that promote health, wellbeing and social responsibility. 

Applicability of LEED and BREEAM according to building typology

Both are applicable to a wide range of building typologies. They are designed to be flexible and adaptable to various categories, addressing both new and existing buildings. Below is the detail of the building typologies where LEED and BREEAM are applicable:

Both systems share the fundamental objective of assessing and improving the environmental performance of buildings, but differ in their approaches and criteria. 

LEED and BREEAM areas of operation

Both systems focus on key aspects, such as energy efficiency, water management, indoor air quality, material selection, sustainable location and innovation.

LEED vs BREEAM scoring and levels

In both LEED and BREEAM, certification is structured with a scoring system that determines the level of certification as seen below:

Although both systems share similarities in scoring structure and levels, the specific categories and assessment criteria vary, reflecting the distinct priorities and approaches of LEED and BREEAM in promoting sustainability in construction.

Through a detailed analysis, we will discover how LEED EBOM, with its rigorous requirements and focus on continuous improvement, distinguishes itself from BREEAM ES In-Use, which offers flexibility and adaptability for assessing and certifying buildings based on the specific standards of Spain.

LEED EBOM certification

LEED EBOM (Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance) certification is an international standard focused on improving the sustainability and operational efficiency of buildings already in operation. This certification evaluates and rewards sustainable practices in key areas such as energy efficiency, water management and indoor air quality. Buildings that achieve LEED EBOM Certification demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and continuous improvement in their operations and maintenance. For more details about this certification, you can check our article here.

Source: https://www.usgbc.org/leed

BREEAM In-Use certification

The BREEAM ES In-Use certification is a leading sustainability standard for assessing and improving the environmental performance of buildings already in operation in Spain. Developed specifically for the national context, this certification addresses key aspects such as energy efficiency, water management, occupant health and wellbeing, and the responsible use of resources. By obtaining BREEAM ES In-Use Certification, buildings demonstrate their commitment to sustainable and efficient practices, contributing positively to the built environment and standing out as benchmarks in sustainable construction in the country. For a deeper understanding of the BREEAM ES In-Use certification, we invite you to read our article here.

Source: https://breeam.es/

These certifications could be considered equivalent, which means that a project does not need to pursue both. Both BREEAM ES In-Use and LEED EBOM share the objective of transforming existing buildings into more sustainable and efficient spaces.

Benefits of LEED EBOM and BREEAM ES In-Use

Here are some key benefits of both summarised:

• Operational Efficiency and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductionboth certifications foster efficiency through monitoring, evaluation and the establishment of behavioural objectives. 
• Health and Wellbeing: they prioritise indoor environmental quality, considering aspects such as air quality,
  natural lighting, temperature control, acoustic comfort and the availability of outdoor spaces.
• Resource Saving: they seek efficiency in resource use and sustainably manage energy and water consumption, reducing operating and maintenance costs.
• Value and Differentiation: they offer recognition and prestige, enhancing the building's image in the market.

 

Key differences between LEED EBOM and BREEAM ES In-Use

• Certification Levels:
  • LEED EBOM: 4 tiers (Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum)
  • BREEAM ES In Use: 6 levels (Pass, Acceptable, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and Outstanding)
• Minimum Requirements:
  • LEED EBOM: more stringent minimum requirements, implying an additional initial challenge.
  • BREEAM ES In Use: it presents minimum requirements but the majority of points are optional.
• Certification Structure:
  • LEED EBOM: single certification, with a choice of v4 or v4.1 versions, the latter notable for its performance measurement and monitoring platform over time, focused on continuous improvement.
  • BREEAM ES In Use: divided into two independent parts to evaluate the building (physical characteristics, construction and services) and management (operation, running and maintenance).
• Certification levels:
  • LEED EBOM: ideal for projects looking to achieve high levels of certification.
  • BREEAM ES In Use: it offers a more streamlined certification, but achieving high levels can be more challenging.
• Geographical Focus:
  • LEED O&M: internationally applicable global version.
  • BREEAM ES In-Use: specifically designed for buildings in use in Spain.
• Professional Figures:
  • LEED EBOM: it introduces the figure of the LEED AP (Accredited Professional), which is optional but awarded with points in the certification.
  • BREEAM ES In Use: incorporates the role of the Assessor, a mandatory independent technician in the certification process, who must complete specific training (there are 220 assessors in Spain).

 

• Certification Fees:
  • LEED EBOM: flat fee for registration, but certification fees vary depending on the building's floor area.
  • BREEAM ES In Use: fixed fees for both registration and certification. 
• Certified buildings in Spain:
  • LEED OM: 202 certified projects in Spain.
  • BREEAM ES In Use: 804 certified projects in Spain.

Similarities between LEED EBOM and BREEAM ES In-Use

As previously mentioned, these certifications are «equivalent» and share the following similarities:

• Both certifications have minimum requirements to ensure compliance with fundamental environmental issues.
• Both LEED EBOM and BREEAM ES In-Use enjoy international recognition in terms of sustainability standards.
• They follow a comprehensive approach when evaluating sustainability, covering environmental and management aspects.
• They must be recertified: LEED EBOM every 5 years and BREEAM In-Use every 3 years.
• They highlight the financial savings derived from building optimisation and its management as key benefits.
• They prioritise the health and wellbeing of the building's occupants.

Both certifications encourage continuous improvement and performance optimisation over time. 

These differences and similarities offer a useful comparison to guide the choice between LEED EBOM and BREEAM ES In-Use, depending on the specific objectives and characteristics of the project.

Achieving both LEED O&M and BREEAM In-Use certification represents a fundamental milestone towards building a more sustainable and resilient future. In Evalore Spaces, we are committed to guiding our clients in improving their projects and fostering their contribution to caring for the planet. Interested in discovering how we can support you? Do not hesitate to Contact us right now.

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Camila Harguindeguy, BREEAM Associate

Civil Engineer and Sustainability Consultant, Espacios Evalore SLP