BREEAM Webinar: Building Resiliency – Protecting Asset Values

On 13 May 2025, BRE continued its webinar series with Building Resiliency – Protecting Asset Values, chaired by James Fisher, Head of Strategic Partnerships, BRE Group. The session explored how BREEAM addresses the challenges of sustainability within the commercial real estate market, highlighting the benefits of the new BREEAM Version 7 in enhancing asset resilience.

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James Fisher - Head of Strategic Partnerships at BRE

“In developing Version 7, we have adopted a more strategic and forward-looking approach to addressing hazards. This approach is informed by widely accepted global data sources and established climate scenarios. It is encouraging to see that our work aligns with other recognised standards, as this not only enhances the credibility of our methodology but also contributes to the long-term protection of asset value. By building on proven strategies and incorporating nature-based solutions, we are strengthening the ability of BREEAM to help future-proof the built environment.”

Jonathan Hale - Partner, Head of ESG Consulting at Knight Frank LLP

“The BREEAM In-Use Version 6 manual outlines practical measures that genuinely enhance real estate asset value. While management performance has been a key focus, it’s equally important to assess the physical resilience of buildings—through flood risk assessments, natural hazard readiness, emergency planning, and fire safety. Certifications like BREEAM In-Use offer a robust framework for this and are increasingly valued by lenders. But resilience also depends on mastering the basics: understanding who’s responsible for what, capturing accurate data on energy, water, waste, and enabling tenant engagement to collaborate and take action.”

Sarah Brayshaw - Principal Climate Risk and Resilience Consultant at Savills

“Balancing building-level resilience with local risks is complex and depends on the client’s goals. We start by assessing individual assets, using a range of data sources while considering their limitations. Site visits are key to understanding vulnerabilities and identifying practical improvements. Some hazards, like heatwaves, affect large areas, while others, like flooding, require localised solutions. The challenge lies in scaling adaptation measures from single assets to entire portfolios, which is why having clear, cross-hazard resilience guidance is crucial.”

Constantin Sorlescu MRICS - Director of Professional Standards at INREV

“We run an annual investment intention survey to gauge global investor sentiment, and European investors lead on ESG integration. Nearly 90% of European investors remain committed to ESG factors and Net Zero. In Europe, while ESG remains a priority, there is a growing focus on the financial side, with more emphasis on the business case and long-term value creation. Boards and CIOs are increasingly considering the financial impact of ESG, and the focus on measurable value is becoming stronger in these discussions.“

Guy Whittaker - Key Account Manager at Allianz UK

“Resilience at building-level and for the local environment needs to be assessed alongside the client’s goals. Developing a deeper understanding of the risk posed to assets from climate risks like flooding or heat stress can be developed using a range of data sources. Site visits can be key to understanding vulnerabilities and identifying practical improvements. The challenge is scaling adaptation measures up from single assets to entire portfolios and across communities, which is why having clear, cross-hazard resilience guidance is crucial."

Thomas Van Rompaey (CESGA) - Global Responsible Investment Manager at AXA IM

"At AXA Investment Managers, data quality is critical when assessing physical climate risks. We ran a detailed RFP to compare providers and found major differences in accuracy and resolution—many tools claim to meet EU Taxonomy standards but don’t deliver in practice. We use a three-step
process: assess location-based risk, then exposure, then asset vulnerability. This helps us target investment where it matters, especially since assessments can cost €7,500–€15,000 per asset.

Ade Ige, Principal Subject Matter Expert at AstraZenca

"At AstraZeneca, materiality assessments have always been an integral part of our strategy. However, they are now becoming even more central to our focus, particularly with the introduction of frameworks such as CSRD and TCFD. These initiatives bring increased transparency and comparability, which helps us better understand and communicate our position. This, in turn, informs the development of more robust strategic plans, ensuring resilience and business continuity across all our sites.“