BREEAM Webinar Series: Exploring the Creation of Social Outcomes

The webinar, Exploring the Creation of Social Outcomes, chaired by Kaie Small-Warner, BRE's Head of Responsible Business focused on how BREEAM prioritises people and social value, offering valuable insights into what social value means for organisations, with an emphasis on the latest thinking and developments in the commercial real estate sector.

quotes

Kaie Small-Warner, Head of Responsible Business at BRE

"We are developing a new approach to better integrate social value drivers within BREEAM criteria. This will include cross-cutting principles such as stakeholder engagement and participation, inclusion, accessibility, responsible leadership, and ethical business practices. Additionally, there will be more explicit thematic categories aligned with social outcomes, aimed at generating long-term social impact."

David Partridge, Chairman, Governance Board at UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard

"It is important to promote benchmarking, transparent reporting, and strong collaboration with both local investors and the wider community. For instance, in Piccadilly, Manchester, many other stakeholders—such as nearby hotels and local restaurants—were also investing in the area, and their contributions played a vital role in its overall success. Before we start out on any major projects, we need to identify what is both meaningful and measurable, then track the impact of our efforts, and report on how they align with the original goals. This approach will help us better understand the value of social and environmental improvements."

Kalli Stuart, ESG and Social Value Consultant at Knight Frank

“In the built environment, social value refers to the positive impact that buildings, infrastructure, and places can have on people’s quality of life. This impact can cover environmental, economic, and social well-being—whether it's through job creation, improved access to services, enhanced community cohesion and connection, or better health and sustainability outcomes. It’s about recognising that while the built environment is a major contributor to carbon emissions, it's equally important to focus on its potential to support community wellbeing, inclusion, and social value.”