How your office refreshments setup can help you achieve BREEAM certification
Lily Hedley | November 7, 2025
Water provision is essential for sustainable building design. As more organisations pursue BREEAM certification, the way we manage hydration in the workplace can make a meaningful impact on both environmental and wellbeing goals.
What is BREEAM certification?
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is one of the world’s most respected sustainability frameworks. It assesses buildings in categories such as energy, water, health & wellbeing, and waste, helping companies prove their commitment to greener, smarter operations.
How water efficiency earns BREEAM credits
Installing mains-fed, point-of-use water dispensers can directly support BREEAM’s Water category by:
- Cutting reliance on bottled water
- Reducing plastic waste and transport-related emissions
- Supporting water use monitoring
- Supporting health and productivity
BREEAM also values the connection between wellbeing and access to clean water. High-capacity hydration systems make it easy for teams to stay refreshed with chilled, boiling or sparkling options, encouraging regular hydration and boosting focus throughout the day.
Lowering your building’s environmental footprint
Modern water systems go far beyond convenience. They help meet sustainability targets by:
- Eliminating single-use plastic bottles
- Reducing the carbon impact of transporting bottled water
- Integrating seamlessly into broader sustainability strategies
Premium features
Advanced dispensers can include:
- Touch-free designs for improved hygiene
- Leak detection to prevent waste
- Integration with building management systems for real-time data and reporting
Can coffee machines help with BREEAM?
Indirectly, yes. Under BREEAM’s Ene 08: Energy Efficient Equipment category, energy-efficient coffee machines can play a small but strategic role in reducing unregulated energy use. They will not earn direct credits on their own, but including them in your sustainability plan demonstrates a broader commitment to energy-smart choices.
The takeaway
Water dispensers are not just a workplace perk, they are a cornerstone of sustainable office design. By choosing smart, efficient hydration systems, businesses can earn valuable BREEAM credits while supporting their people and the planet.
Need help?
If you’re working towards a WELL building certification and are interested in making coffee and water a part of that solution, drop us a line here.