Using BIM to faciliate BREEAM processes in the design phase

Abstract

The environmental classification system BREEAM is being adopted by the Norwegian construction industry. To achieve a BREEAM classification, a variety of criteria’s must be fulfilled that affects the sustainability of the building process and operation. It is vital to optimize factors during the design stage to achieve a high rating, as itforms the basis for most of the credits achievable.

In this thesis, research has been carried out to find the technical and process-related changes induced by BIM that can facilitate the BREEAM process in the design phase. Literature study and case studies were utilized to perform the research.

The main application areas include the ability to optimize Energy, Health and Well being, Water and Materials issues through purpose built analysis and simulation software; possibilities to track and document BREEAM compliance; and a BIM-induced shift of effort to earlier in the design phases, allowing for increased iterations and earlier optimization.

A framework was developed for integrating the benefits of BIM-BREEAM facilitation into the design process. The principles include establishing a Quality Assurance Program, where the BREEAM pre-assessment play an important part of tracking and directing the design phase environmental efforts. BIM is used both in the creation of the preassessment, for the quality assurance gateways and as a tool for decision making throughout the design process.

The case studies revealed some current challenges to the use of BIM for early phase optimization, such as lack of interoperability and issues with choosing software. The challenges facing the project design team do have current remedies, and they will likely become less challenging as technology improves and BIM experience increases.