Green Light for Greener Buildings: BREEAM New Construction V7 Is Here — And Greenbors Is Ready

The internationally recognised sustainability certification scheme, BREEAM, has released a major update to its New Construction standard. The new Version 7 (V7) is now live, and while it doesn’t completely overhaul the system, it introduces significant changes aimed at accelerating decarbonisation and aligning with global ESG expectations — including the EU Taxonomy.

In a world where buildings and construction account for nearly 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions, this new version arrives at a critical time.

WHAT’S CHANGING — AND WHY IT MATTERS

BREEAM NC V7 represents a comprehensive response to growing climate challenges, tighter regulations, and real estate investors' demand for greater transparency. The update reflects both scientific advancements in energy and carbon performance, and the real-world feedback from sustainability consultants, assessors, and developers.

Here are the most impactful changes you need to know:

1. A TOUGHER STANCE ON ENERGY AND CARBON

Energy efficiency has always been a central pillar of BREEAM — but V7 takes it to a new level.

• New minimum energy thresholds are now required just to enter the rating system.

• To reach higher BREEAM levels (like Excellent or Outstanding), buildings must prove operational energy performance through predictive modelling.

• On-site fossil fuel combustion is no longer accepted for Outstanding certifications — a clear push toward electrification and renewable energy reliance.

• Energy systems must now support flexible demand response, enabling buildings to align energy use with the availability of renewable energy on the grid.

This aligns BREEAM more closely with net-zero goals, rewarding projects that incorporate smart control systems, energy storage, and resilient building services.

2. WHOLE LIFE CARBON IN FOCUS

One of the most significant upgrades in BREEAM V7 is the expanded scope of Life Cycle Assessments (LCA).

• Embodied carbon is no longer an optional consideration. Projects must now model the carbon footprint from material sourcing to demolition — not just during operational life.

• Recycled materials and modular, disassemblable design elements are heavily encouraged. For example:

  • Using recycled steel can reduce energy use by up to 95%.

  • Recycled concrete may cut environmental impact by 20–30%.

These changes help projects reduce both visible and hidden emissions, aligning with the circular economy and EU climate targets.

3. MATERIAL CHOICES THAT MATTER

Beyond energy, V7 brings stronger focus to sustainable material selection and reuse:

• Life Cycle Assessments now account for construction, transportation, and end-of-life impact.

• Design must consider future disassembly and recyclability — favouring structures that can be adapted or reused rather than demolished.

• Projects are incentivised to use secondary raw materials like recycled metals, glass, and plastics.

This holistic material strategy not only reduces environmental harm but increases long-term building value in a carbon-conscious market.

4. A SMARTER, STREAMLINED ASSESSMENT PROCESS

To improve accessibility and efficiency:

• Excel calculators are out. V7 integrates these tools into a single online platform.

• Projects with up to five different space types can now be assessed without requiring a bespoke pathway, simplifying mixed-use development certifications.

• Country-specific weightings have been refined to better reflect local conditions and priorities.

5. ALIGNING WITH THE EU TAXONOMY

Perhaps one of the most business-critical changes: BREEAM V7 is now designed to closely align with the EU Taxonomy for sustainable activities — a growing regulatory requirement for European investors and financial institutions.

• Approximately 70–80% of BREEAM V7 criteria overlap with EU Taxonomy objectives.

• Areas of alignment include energy, carbon, materials, waste, water, and biodiversity.

• By aiming for higher BREEAM scores, developers can simultaneously satisfy EU sustainability reporting obligations, giving them a compliance advantage.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE REAL ESTATE MARKET

For Hungarian and international developers, the launch of BREEAM V7 means the bar has been raised.

• Minimum thresholds are tougher.

• Requirements for carbon and energy modelling are stricter.

• There is more pressure to demonstrate real, measurable environmental performance — not just design-phase intentions.

This will likely require earlier engagement of sustainability consultants, deeper design collaboration, and a strategic view of decarbonisation from the outset.

BEHIND THE STANDARD: GREENBORS' ROLE

While these updates pose new challenges, some consultancies are already well-prepared to support market players through the transition.

At Greenbors Consulting, we’re proud to be among the first in the region fully equipped to undertake certifications under the BREEAM NC V7 scheme.

In fact, several of our specialists have contributed directly to the development and fine-tuning of Version 7 — through international consultations and technical working groups — giving us early insights into how to translate these updates into practical, value-adding strategies for our clients.

As sustainability frameworks evolve, so do we — ensuring that our partners stay ahead, not just compliant.

FINAL THOUGHTS

BREEAM New Construction V7 isn't just an update — it’s a strategic shift toward verifiable carbon performance and long-term value creation. In an era of greenwashing concerns and tightening climate legislation, V7 offers both a challenge and an opportunity.

Whether you're just beginning your certification journey or aiming to meet the highest standards under V7, the pathway is clearer — and the right partner can make all the difference.