BREEAM
Global sustainability certification framework for built environment
SQF
GFSI-benchmarked certification for food safety management
Quick Verdict
BREEAM certifies sustainable buildings for construction firms seeking ESG value, while SQF ensures food safety for manufacturers via HACCP audits. Companies adopt BREEAM for green credentials and market premiums; SQF for retailer approval and recall prevention.
BREEAM
Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
Key Features
- Third-party audited certification by BRE Global
- Weighted credit system across 10 categories
- Lifecycle schemes for new, in-use, infrastructure
- Global with local National Scheme Operators
- Continuous KBCN updates and EU alignment
SQF
Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular: Module 2 system elements + sector GMPs
- HACCP-based Food Safety Plan with validation
- Mandatory onsite SQF Practitioner role
- GFSI-benchmarked for global retailer acceptance
- Annual audits with unannounced and scoring
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
BREEAM Details
What It Is
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a science-led sustainability certification framework for the built environment. Developed by BRE in 1990, it assesses environmental, social, and resilience performance across buildings, infrastructure, and communities. Its credit-based, weighted scoring methodology converts performance into ratings from Pass to Outstanding.
Key Components
- 10 core categories: Management, Health & Wellbeing, Energy, Transport, Water, Materials, Waste, Land Use & Ecology, Pollution, Innovation.
- Credits awarded for evidenced compliance; categories weighted by impact (e.g., high for Energy).
- Schemes for lifecycle stages: New Construction, In-Use, Refurbishment, Infrastructure.
- Third-party model: licensed assessors submit for BRE Global QA audits.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives ESG alignment, net-zero strategies, asset value uplift (up to 30% premiums), operational savings (22-33% energy). Mitigates regulatory risks, enhances tenant appeal, supports EU Taxonomy disclosures.
Implementation Overview
Early assessor/AP appointment, phased via design/construction stages. Applies globally with local adaptations; requires evidence management, training. Certification via BRE audits; In-Use for ongoing validity.
SQF Details
What It Is
Safe Quality Food (SQF) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification program administered by the SQF Institute (SQFI). It provides a HACCP-based management system ensuring food safety and optional quality across supply chains, from farm to retail. Scope spans Food Sector Categories (FSCs) via modular codes.
Key Components
- **Module 2Universal system elements (management commitment, HACCP plan, verification, traceability).
- Sector modules (e.g., Module 11 for manufacturing GMPs).
- Built on Codex HACCP principles; ~mandatory clauses in Module 2.
- Annual third-party audits with scoring (E/G/C/F grades).
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer/brand requirements as 'license to trade'.
- Reduces audits, recalls; aligns with FSMA/EU regs.
- Builds food safety culture, supplier trust, resilience.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, document/implement/prove, certify.
- Applies to manufacturers, storage, all sizes globally.
- Requires SQF Practitioner, internal audits, unannounced audits.
Key Differences
| Aspect | BREEAM | SQF |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Sustainability in built environment (energy, health, ecology) | Food safety and quality management (HACCP, GMPs) |
| Industry | Construction, real estate, infrastructure globally | Food manufacturing, storage, distribution worldwide |
| Nature | Voluntary third-party certification framework | GFSI-benchmarked voluntary food safety certification |
| Testing | Licensed assessor audits, BRE quality assurance | Annual third-party audits, unannounced surveillance |
| Penalties | Loss of certification, no legal penalties | Certification suspension, market access loss |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about BREEAM and SQF
BREEAM FAQ
SQF FAQ
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