Demonstrating Sustainability of Utility and Infrastructure Projects

Certifications like BREEAM Infrastructure (previously CEEQUAL) help utility and infrastructure projects show investors and stakeholders that they prioritise sustainability and net-zero goals. These projects now need to cover and assess important issues, including:

• Whole life cycle carbon assessments to show reduced carbon emissions.
• Resource efficiency plans to lower environmental footprints.
• Circular economy principles in procurement strategies.
• Socio-economic impact assessments to deliver social value to local communities.
• Ecological impact evaluations to protect ecosystems and promote biodiversity.

BREEAM Infrastructure provides a clear framework to help projects focus on key sustainability issues.

Many factors drive the need for sustainable design, construction, operation, and decommissioning of utility infrastructure, including:

• Global initiatives like the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Regulations such as the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).
• Voluntary reporting initiatives like GRESB.
• National standards like PAS 2080 Carbon Management in Infrastructure.

As a result, utility companies are making public commitments in their sustainability and ESG plans. While it’s crucial to set top-level goals, success requires a bottom-up approach. Each infrastructure project must address its unique sustainability challenges and take appropriate actions.