BREEAM Infrastructure for civil engineering

Why is civil engineering so important?

Civil engineering projects provide infrastructure on which we all depend – like transport and waste management. These projects shape and influence the environment in which we live.

Many projects improve both environmental quality and well-being. These could be waste-water treatment plants and sewerage schemes, city metros and railway projects, or enhancements of public spaces and refurbishment of parks. It is essential that our infrastructure is maintained and improved – for the well being of the communities it serves.

What is BREEAM Infrastructure’s role in sustainable civil engineering?

BREEAM Infrastructure is supporting an increasing number of projects to deliver in a sustainable way. For civil engineering projects, it’s essential to avoid detrimental environmental impacts, such as permanent biodiversity loss.

There is a strong social and environmental case for governments and organisations to make their civil engineering projects sustainable. There are many challenges involved such as reducing adverse environmental impacts during construction, improving whole-life performance of projects, and maximising the benefits for communities. It is also important that schemes are built in line with the appropriate environmental and social performance standards.

BREEAM Infrastructure addresses these issues to help civil engineers achieve sustainable engineering projects. It provides an incentive to clients, designers, and contractors to undertake projects that: 

– Are demonstrably contributing to more sustainable living

– Are adopting best environmental, economic, and social practice to drive sustainable civil engineering standards

– Are delivering more sustainable engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and public realm works