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BRE Global in the UK and CSTB in France are to work together on a pan-European environmental assessment method for buildings.

The two organisations have their own successful assessment methods, BREEAM administered by BRE and HQE in France. They are now joining forces with CERTIVA, a subsidiary of CSTB, to align the two certification schemes.

BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) is one of the most widely used environmental assessment methods for buildings, which are rated on their sustainable design and environmental performance across eight categories. Buildings receive credits on a scale of Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding or a one to five star rating.

CSTB, which is under the supervision of the French Ministry of Housing, acts to improve the comfort and safety of buildings and covers research and innovative engineering, evaluation of buildings and dissemination of information.

Ultimately, aligning the BREEAM and HQE schemes could allow the development of an assessment method common across the whole of Europe.

For further information:
www.breglobal.com/
www.breeam.org/
www.cstb.fr/
www.certivea.fr/