EPD Certification

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardized document that provides transparent and verified information about the environmental impact of a product throughout its life cycle. Based on internationally recognized standards like ISO 14025 and EN 15804, EPDs allow manufacturers to communicate a product’s environmental performance in a clear and comparable way.

The EPD process involves conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which evaluates factors such as raw material extraction, energy use, emissions, waste generation, and end-of-life disposal. The results are then verified by an independent third party to ensure accuracy and credibility.

EPDs are essential tools for businesses aiming to meet sustainability goals, enhance brand reputation, and comply with green building certifications like LEED or BREEAM. They also help architects, engineers, and consumers make environmentally responsible choices by comparing products based on factual environmental data.

Although having an EPD doesn’t necessarily mean a product is eco-friendly, it demonstrates the manufacturer’s commitment to transparency and sustainability. As global demand for sustainable practices grows, EPDs are becoming increasingly important in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and consumer goods, supporting companies in reducing their environmental footprint and driving innovation toward a circular economy.

Why is EPD certification important for sustainable building practices?

EPD certification is crucial for sustainable building practices because it provides transparent, verified information about the environmental impact of construction materials and products. It allows architects, engineers, and developers to make informed decisions based on a product’s life cycle environmental performance, promoting the use of materials that contribute to reducing a building’s overall carbon footprint.

One of the primary benefits of EPD certification is that it encourages life cycle thinking considering environmental impacts from raw material extraction to disposal. This approach helps in selecting materials with lower energy consumption, reduced emissions, and less waste generation, contributing to more sustainable construction practices.

EPDs also play a significant role in achieving green building certifications like LEED, BREEAM, or Mostadam, as they provide the necessary documentation to earn credits related to material transparency and environmental performance. By using products with EPDs, developers can meet regulatory requirements, improve their sustainability credentials, and gain a competitive market advantage.

Moreover, EPD certification fosters innovation among manufacturers by motivating them to reduce the environmental impacts of their products. Ultimately, integrating EPD-certified materials in construction supports global climate goals, minimizes resource depletion, and enhances the sustainability of the built environment.

Who can issue EPD certifications?

EPD certifications are issued by accredited, independent organizations known as EPD Program Operators. These operators are responsible for overseeing the development, verification, and publication of Environmental Product Declarations according to international standards such as ISO 14025, EN 15804, or sector-specific Product Category Rules (PCRs).

Program Operators ensure that EPDs are prepared consistently, accurately, and transparently. They work with manufacturers to guide them through the EPD process, including conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and ensuring compliance with relevant standards. Once the EPD is completed, an independent third-party verifier reviews the data to confirm its accuracy and reliability.

Some well-known EPD Program Operators include:

The International EPD System (Sweden)
UL Environment (United States)
IBU (Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V.) (Germany)
BRE Global (United Kingdom)
Global EPD (Spain)

These organizations are recognized globally and collaborate with industry bodies to maintain consistent methodologies across different sectors and regions. Selecting a reputable program operator ensures that the EPD certification meets international standards, making it valid for global markets and compatible with sustainability certifications like LEED, BREEAM, and Mostadam.

What are the key benefits of having an EPD-certified product?

Having an EPD-certified product offers several key benefits for manufacturers, businesses, and consumers, particularly in industries focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Transparency and Credibility:
EPDs provide verified, science-based information about a product’s environmental impact across its entire life cycle. This transparency builds trust with customers, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.
Market Advantage:
As sustainability becomes a priority for consumers and businesses, EPD-certified products stand out in competitive markets. They can help companies meet the growing demand for eco-friendly products and improve brand reputation.
Compliance with Green Building Certifications:
EPD-certified products contribute to achieving credits in green building rating systems like LEED, BREEAM, and Mostadam. This makes them attractive to architects, developers, and contractors seeking sustainable construction materials.
Environmental Performance Improvement:
The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) process involved in creating an EPD highlights areas where a company can reduce environmental impacts, leading to better resource efficiency, lower emissions, and waste reduction.
Regulatory Compliance:
EPDs help businesses meet national and international sustainability regulations, which are becoming stricter globally.
Customer Trust and Loyalty:
Consumers increasingly prefer brands committed to sustainability. An EPD-certified product signals responsibility, fostering long-term customer loyalty.

How does an EPD contribute to achieving LEED credits?

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) contributes to achieving LEED credits by providing verified data on a product’s environmental impact, promoting transparency and sustainable material choices. In the LEED v4 and v4.1 rating systems, EPDs primarily contribute to points under the Materials and Resources (MR) category, specifically in the Building Product Disclosure and Optimization – Environmental Product Declarations credit.

There are two main pathways where EPDs help earn credits:

Option 1: Environmental Product Declaration (1 point)
Projects can earn one point by using at least 20 products from five different manufacturers that have published EPDs. These EPDs must be third-party verified and compliant with standards like ISO 14025 and EN 15804.
Option 2: Multi-Attribute Optimization (1 point)
Additional points are available if products demonstrate reduced environmental impacts in specific categories (e.g., global warming potential, ozone depletion) compared to industry averages. This encourages using materials with lower environmental footprints.

By incorporating EPD-certified products, project teams gain transparency on material impacts, reduce a building’s environmental footprint, and demonstrate responsible sourcing. Additionally, using EPDs supports sustainable procurement strategies, helping projects meet LEED certification requirements more effectively and contributing to global sustainability goals.

What are the types of EPDs (Industry-wide vs. Product-specific)?

There are two main types of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs): Industry-wide EPDs and Product-specific EPDs. Both provide verified information about a product’s environmental impact but differ in scope and level of detail.

1. Industry-wide EPDs

An industry-wide EPD represents the average environmental performance of a product category within an entire industry or sector. These EPDs are developed by industry associations or groups of manufacturers using aggregated data from multiple companies.

Key Features:

Based on average data from several manufacturers.
Offers a benchmark for comparing products within the same category.
Typically less expensive to develop for individual companies.

Use Case:
Best suited for companies that align with industry averages or want to demonstrate general environmental performance without focusing on brand-specific data.

2. Product-specific EPDs

A product-specific EPD details the environmental performance of a particular product from a single manufacturer. The data used reflects that specific product’s materials, processes, and supply chain impacts.

Key Features:

Based on detailed, company-specific data.
Offers a more accurate and transparent environmental profile.
May contribute more points in green building certifications like LEED.

Use Case:
Ideal for companies aiming to highlight their sustainability efforts and gain a competitive advantage with eco-conscious consumers and clients.

In LEED v4, product-specific EPDs often earn more credits than industry-wide EPDs due to their higher level of transparency.

How long is an EPD certificate valid?

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certificate is typically valid for five years from the date of publication. This validity period is defined by international standards such as ISO 14025 and EN 15804 to ensure that the environmental data remains accurate and reflects any changes in production processes, materials, or regulations.

Why the Five-Year Validity?

Over time, factors like manufacturing improvements, changes in raw material sourcing, or advancements in technology can significantly alter a product’s environmental performance. A five-year validity period ensures that the EPD remains up to date and continues to provide reliable, transparent information for consumers and businesses.

Renewal Process

At the end of the validity period, manufacturers must either:

Update the EPD: Conduct a new Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to reflect changes and submit the updated data for third-party verification.
Re-certify the EPD: Undergo the verification process again to ensure compliance with the latest standards and environmental benchmarks.

Importance for Green Building Certifications

For certifications like LEED, BREEAM, or Mostadam, only valid and up-to-date EPDs are considered eligible for earning credits. Keeping EPDs current ensures that manufacturers remain compliant with sustainability standards and continue to meet market expectations for transparency and environmental responsibility.

What are the main steps to obtain EPD certification?

Obtaining an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certification involves several key steps to ensure accurate, transparent, and verified environmental data. Here’s a breakdown of the main steps:

1. Define the Product Category Rules (PCR)

The process begins by identifying the appropriate Product Category Rules (PCR), which establish the guidelines for conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). PCRs are specific to product types and ensure consistency in environmental impact assessments.

2. Conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

A comprehensive LCA evaluates the environmental impacts of the product throughout its life cycle—covering raw material extraction, production, distribution, use, and disposal. This analysis follows international standards like ISO 14040 and ISO 14044.

3. Draft the EPD Document

The results from the LCA are compiled into an EPD document. This report includes detailed information about the product’s environmental impacts, resource usage, emissions, and waste generation.

4. Third-Party Verification

An accredited, independent verifier reviews the EPD to ensure that the LCA results and data comply with relevant PCRs and international standards. This step guarantees credibility and transparency.

5. Registration and Publication

Once verified, the EPD is registered with an official EPD Program Operator (e.g., The International EPD System, UL Environment) and published for public access.

6. Renewal and Updates

EPDs are typically valid for five years. After expiration, manufacturers must update the LCA and renew the certification.

What documents are required for EPD certification?

To obtain an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certification, several key documents are required to ensure transparency, accuracy, and compliance with international standards. Here are the main documents needed:

1. Product Category Rules (PCR)

A document specifying the rules, requirements, and guidelines for developing an EPD for a specific product type. It ensures consistency and comparability within the same product category.

2. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Report

A detailed report analyzing the environmental impact of the product throughout its life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal. This report must comply with standards like ISO 14040 and ISO 14044.

3. EPD Report (Draft)

A document summarizing the LCA results, including:

Product description and intended use
Environmental impact data (e.g., global warming potential, energy consumption)
Resource use, emissions, and waste generation
Compliance with PCR guidelines

4. Third-Party Verification Statement

An official verification report from an accredited, independent verifier confirming the accuracy and compliance of the EPD with PCRs and relevant standards.

5. Supporting Documents

Additional evidence to support data claims, such as:

Production process documentation
Material specifications
Energy consumption records

6. Registration Forms

Documents required by the EPD Program Operator for registration and publication of the certified EPD.

Having these documents ready ensures a smooth and successful EPD certification process.

How much does it cost to get EPD certification?

The cost of obtaining an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certification can vary widely based on factors such as product complexity, data availability, and the program operator chosen. Typically, the total cost ranges from $10,000 to $50,000 or more.

Key Cost Factors:

Product Category Rules (PCR) Development
If an existing PCR is unavailable, developing one can cost between $5,000 and $15,000. However, for most products, established PCRs already exist, reducing this cost.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Study
Conducting a comprehensive LCA is usually the most expensive step, costing between $5,000 and $30,000 depending on the complexity of the product, data collection needs, and the number of manufacturing sites.
Third-Party Verification
An independent verification process typically costs between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on the depth of the review and the verifier’s rates.
EPD Registration and Publication
Program operators, such as The International EPD System or UL Environment, charge fees ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for registering and publishing the EPD.

Additional Costs:

Consultancy fees (optional): If external experts assist with the LCA or documentation, additional charges may apply.
Renewal costs: Every 5 years, EPDs need to be updated, which incurs additional costs.

Investing in EPD certification offers long-term benefits, including market competitiveness, regulatory compliance, and contribution toward green building certifications like LEED.

How long does it take to complete the EPD certification process?

The EPD certification process typically takes between 6 to 12 months to complete, depending on the product’s complexity, data availability, and the efficiency of the verification process.

Main Factors Influencing the Timeline:

Product Category Rules (PCR) Selection or Development (1–2 months)
If a suitable PCR already exists, this step is quick. However, creating a new PCR can take up to 6 months due to stakeholder consultations and approval processes.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Study (2–4 months)
Conducting an LCA involves gathering detailed data across the product’s entire life cycle. The duration depends on the product’s complexity, number of manufacturing sites, and data collection speed.
Drafting the EPD Report (1–2 months)
Once the LCA is completed, the results are compiled into a report following the guidelines set by the PCR.
Third-Party Verification (1–2 months)
An independent verifier reviews the LCA and EPD report to ensure compliance with standards like ISO 14025 and EN 15804.
Registration and Publication (1 month)
After verification, the EPD is submitted to a Program Operator for official registration and publication.

Total Timeframe:

For products with readily available data and existing PCRs, the process can be completed in around 6 months. Complex products or those requiring new PCR development may take up to 12 months or longer.

Can small businesses apply for EPD certification?

Yes, small businesses can apply for EPD certification, and doing so can offer significant competitive advantages. Although the process can be resource-intensive, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly pursuing EPDs to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, meet regulatory requirements, and attract environmentally conscious customers.

Benefits for Small Businesses:

Market Differentiation: EPD certification helps small businesses stand out by providing transparency and showcasing sustainability efforts.
Access to New Markets: Many large corporations and green building projects require EPD-certified products from suppliers.
Contribution to Green Certifications: EPD-certified products can help clients earn credits in programs like LEED or BREEAM, making the business more attractive to eco-conscious partners.

Challenges:

Cost: The certification process, including the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and verification, can be expensive for small businesses. However, industry-wide EPDs or shared PCRs can help reduce costs.
Resource Intensity: Gathering the necessary data and completing the documentation can be time-consuming, often requiring expert support.

Solutions:

Seek industry associations offering group EPDs to reduce costs.
Work with consultants to streamline the certification process.

In conclusion, while there are challenges, the long-term benefits of EPD certification can significantly outweigh the initial investment for small businesses committed to sustainability.

What organizations are accredited to certify EPDs?

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are certified by accredited organizations known as EPD Program Operators. These organizations oversee the development, verification, and publication of EPDs in accordance with international standards such as ISO 14025, EN 15804, and ISO 21930.

Major Accredited EPD Program Operators:

The International EPD System (Sweden)
One of the most recognized global EPD operators, following ISO standards and offering certification across various industries.
UL Environment (United States)
Specializes in sustainability certifications for products and helps companies meet regulatory and market-driven requirements.
Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V. (IBU) (Germany)
Focused on construction products, it aligns with European and global sustainability frameworks.
BRE Global (United Kingdom)
Known for integrating EPDs with green building certification systems like BREEAM.
Global EPD (Spain)
Operates under AENOR and covers a wide range of sectors, with a strong presence in Europe.
ECO Platform (Europe-wide)
A network of European EPD program operators ensuring consistency across member organizations.

Accreditation Requirements:

These organizations must adhere to ISO standards, ensuring impartiality and consistency during the verification process. Choosing an accredited operator ensures global recognition and acceptance of the EPD, especially for green building certifications like LEED, BREEAM, or Mostadam.

What is a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and how is it related to EPD?

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a scientific method used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a product, process, or service throughout its entire life cycle. This includes all stages from raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, use, and end-of-life disposal. The LCA measures factors like energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and waste generation.

How is LCA Related to EPD?

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is based on the results of a verified LCA. The LCA provides the quantitative data that forms the foundation of the EPD, ensuring that the environmental impact information is accurate and comprehensive.

While the LCA is a detailed internal assessment, the EPD translates this data into a standardized, third-party-verified document following international standards (e.g., ISO 14025). This allows businesses to communicate their product’s environmental performance transparently. Without an LCA, obtaining an EPD is impossible, as the EPD relies entirely on LCA findings for credibility and accuracy.

Which ISO standards govern EPD certifications (e.g., ISO 14025, ISO 21930)?

Several ISO standards govern the development and certification of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) to ensure consistency, transparency, and global recognition:

ISO 14025 – Environmental Labels and Declarations
This standard establishes the principles and procedures for Type III environmental declarations (EPDs). It sets guidelines for third-party verification, ensuring that the environmental data provided is credible and comparable.
ISO 21930 – Sustainability in Building Construction
Focused on the construction sector, this standard specifies requirements for EPDs related to building materials. It aligns with ISO 14025 but adds specific rules for construction products, making it essential for projects aiming for certifications like LEED or BREEAM.
ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 – Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
These standards define the framework and methodologies for conducting an LCA, the foundation of any EPD. They guide data collection, analysis, and reporting of environmental impacts throughout a product’s life cycle.

These ISO standards ensure EPDs are consistent, transparent, and globally accepted.

How are Global Warming Potential (GWP) values calculated for EPDs?

Global Warming Potential (GWP) values for Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are calculated using data from a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). GWP measures the potential of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to trap heat in the atmosphere over a specific time horizon, typically 100 years (GWP100), relative to carbon dioxide (CO₂), which has a GWP of 1.

Calculation Process:

Data Collection:
Gather data on all emissions associated with the product’s life cycle stages—raw material extraction, production, transportation, use, and disposal.
Emission Inventory:
Identify and quantify the emissions of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O).
Characterization Factors:
Apply characterization factors from sources like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to convert emissions into CO₂-equivalent values.
Summation:
Sum the emissions across all life cycle stages to calculate the total GWP, expressed in kg CO₂-eq.

The GWP value in an EPD reflects the overall climate change impact of a product, helping companies and consumers make environmentally responsible choices.

What functional units should be used for an EPD?

A functional unit in an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardized measure that quantifies the performance of a product, allowing for fair comparison across similar products. It defines what is being assessed, ensuring consistency in Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs).

Choosing the Right Functional Unit:

The functional unit depends on the product type and industry standards, often defined by Product Category Rules (PCRs). Common examples include:

Construction materials:
- 1 m² of material (e.g., insulation, flooring) for a specified service life
- 1 m³ of concrete for structural components
Energy products:
- 1 kWh of electricity generated
Packaging products:
- 1 unit or 1,000 units of packaged goods
Consumer goods:
- Per use or per product (e.g., 1 washing cycle for detergent)

The functional unit ensures comparability, enabling stakeholders to assess environmental impacts accurately across products fulfilling the same function. It must be clearly defined in the EPD to maintain transparency and relevance.

How is the Product Category Rules (PCR) selection made?

The selection of Product Category Rules (PCR) is a critical step in developing an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), as it ensures consistency and comparability across similar products. PCRs define the guidelines for conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and reporting environmental impacts for specific product categories.

Steps for Selecting PCR:

Identify Product Category:
Determine the specific type and function of the product (e.g., concrete, flooring, packaging) to ensure the correct PCR is selected for its intended use.
Search for Existing PCRs:
Consult recognized EPD Program Operators (e.g., The International EPD System, UL Environment) or databases like ECO Platform to find existing PCRs for the product category.
Verify Relevance:
Ensure the PCR aligns with international standards (e.g., ISO 14025, EN 15804) and regional regulations, and that its scope covers the full life cycle stages relevant to the product.
Develop New PCR (if necessary):
If no suitable PCR exists, a new one can be developed through industry collaboration, following ISO standards.

Using the appropriate PCR ensures transparency, consistency, and comparability across EPDs.

What international regulations govern EPD certification?

Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certification is governed by several international regulations and standards to ensure consistency, transparency, and global recognition. The key regulations include:

ISO 14025 – Establishes principles for Type III Environmental Declarations, including third-party verification and transparency requirements.
ISO 14040/14044 – Define the framework and methodology for conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which forms the basis of an EPD.
EN 15804 – Provides specific rules for EPDs related to construction products in Europe, ensuring consistency with EU sustainability policies.
ISO 21930 – Focuses on sustainability in building construction, complementing EN 15804 at an international level.

These regulations ensure global comparability and credibility of EPDs.

Are EPD certifications mandatory in any country?

EPD certifications are generally voluntary but have become mandatory in some countries and sectors, particularly in construction. For example, France, Germany, and Sweden require EPDs for certain building materials under national regulations. Additionally, public procurement projects in countries like Norway and the Netherlands often require EPDs to meet sustainability and environmental performance criteria. While not mandatory everywhere, EPDs are increasingly necessary for meeting regulatory requirements, earning green building certifications (e.g., LEED, BREEAM), and accessing environmentally conscious markets.

How do EPDs align with EU regulations, such as the Construction Products Regulation (CPR)?

EPDs align with the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR) by providing standardized environmental performance data for construction materials. The EN 15804 standard, harmonized with the CPR, outlines how to conduct and report Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) for construction products. Under CPR requirements, manufacturers must disclose environmental performance to enable fair comparison and promote sustainability in construction. Although EPDs are not legally required under the CPR, they help companies meet CE marking requirements by ensuring transparency and compliance with environmental obligations across EU markets.

Can EPDs help with carbon footprint reporting obligations?

Yes, EPDs support carbon footprint reporting by providing verified data on a product’s Global Warming Potential (GWP) and overall environmental impact throughout its life cycle. This information helps companies meet regulatory requirements for carbon reporting, such as the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) or national carbon disclosure laws. EPDs also facilitate alignment with international frameworks like the GHG Protocol and Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). By offering accurate emissions data, EPDs help organizations track progress toward carbon reduction goals and contribute to corporate sustainability strategies.

What industries benefit most from EPD certification?

Industries with high environmental impacts, complex supply chains, or sustainability-driven markets benefit most from EPD certification. Key sectors include construction, manufacturing, chemicals, automotive, textiles, and packaging. In construction, EPDs help meet regulatory requirements and green building standards. For manufacturers, EPDs offer transparency, supporting corporate sustainability goals. In consumer-facing industries like packaging and textiles, EPDs improve brand reputation by showcasing environmental responsibility and enabling compliance with regulations related to carbon footprint and circular economy initiatives.

Are there specific EPD standards for construction materials?

Yes, the primary standard for construction materials is EN 15804, which outlines core rules for Environmental Product Declarations specific to the built environment in Europe. This standard aligns with the ISO 14025 framework and sets consistent methodologies for conducting Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) in the construction sector. Additionally, ISO 21930 provides international guidelines for sustainability reporting of construction products. These standards ensure that environmental data for materials like concrete, steel, and insulation are transparent, comparable, and consistent with EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR) requirements.

How do EPDs affect product selection in green building projects?

EPDs influence product selection in green building projects by providing verified, transparent data on a product’s environmental impact. Certifications like LEED, BREEAM, and Mostadam award credits for using EPD-certified materials, encouraging builders to choose products with lower carbon footprints and resource consumption. EPDs also help architects, engineers, and developers compare similar products based on measurable sustainability metrics, leading to informed decisions that align with environmental goals. This improves the project’s overall sustainability rating and supports regulatory compliance in environmentally conscious markets.

How is EPD certification handled in the textile or packaging industries?

In the textile and packaging industries, EPD certification follows general standards like ISO 14025 but uses sector-specific Product Category Rules (PCRs) tailored to each industry. For textiles, EPDs cover environmental impacts related to fiber production, dyeing, and end-of-life disposal. In packaging, EPDs assess materials like plastic, glass, or paper based on factors such as recyclability and energy use. These industries benefit from EPDs by meeting sustainability regulations, reducing environmental footprints, and enhancing brand transparency for eco-conscious consumers.

How often should an EPD be updated?

An EPD should be updated every 5 years or sooner if significant changes occur in production, materials, or processes. Regular updates ensure the information remains accurate and reflects the latest environmental impacts based on the most current data and standards.

What changes in the production process require an EPD update?

Significant changes, such as raw material sourcing, manufacturing processes, energy consumption, or emissions levels, require updating the EPD. Any modifications that substantially alter the product’s environmental impact trigger the need for a revised Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and verification.

Can an EPD certificate be revoked?

Yes, an EPD can be revoked if it becomes outdated, contains inaccurate information, or fails third-party verification. Program operators may withdraw certification if companies do not comply with reporting obligations, renewal timelines, or updated regulatory requirements.

What’s the difference between third-party verified and self-declared EPDs?

A third-party verified EPD undergoes independent verification, ensuring credibility and compliance with standards like ISO 14025. In contrast, a self-declared EPD relies on internal assessments without external review, offering less assurance of accuracy and potentially limiting recognition in green building certifications.

How is EPD data validated?

EPD data is validated through a third-party verification process, where independent experts assess the underlying Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), ensure compliance with relevant Product Category Rules (PCRs), and verify alignment with international standards like ISO 14025 and EN 15804.

What role do third-party verifiers play in EPD certification?

Third-party verifiers ensure the accuracy, consistency, and transparency of the EPD. They review the LCA results, verify compliance with standards and PCRs, and validate that the environmental data presented reflects the product’s actual life cycle impacts, increasing credibility.

How does EPD certification enhance market competitiveness?

EPD certification enhances competitiveness by demonstrating transparency and sustainability, appealing to environmentally conscious clients and markets. It also provides an advantage in bidding for green building projects and regulatory compliance, positioning businesses as industry leaders in sustainable practices.

Can EPD certification influence consumer purchasing behavior?

Yes, EPD certification builds trust and promotes transparency, influencing eco-conscious consumers to choose products with verified environmental performance. It signals a company’s commitment to sustainability, positively impacting purchasing decisions and fostering long-term customer loyalty.

How does EPD certification help meet client sustainability goals?

EPD certification helps clients meet sustainability goals by providing credible data on a product’s environmental impact. It supports compliance with green building standards, aids in carbon footprint reduction efforts, and aligns with corporate sustainability commitments, contributing to broader environmental objectives.