When I first sat down with Clara Thompson, a seasoned architect and sustainability consultant, I was eager to delve into the often intricate world of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Our discussion, however, turned out to be less of a technical dissection and more of an insightful journey through the evolving landscape of sustainable architecture.
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Clara’s eyes lit up as she recounted her experiences, reflecting a genuine passion for her profession. “EPDs are more than just documents,” she began. “They are a bridge to transparency and traceability that we, as industry professionals, have been yearning for.”
Clara explained how EPDs have become integral to her work, collaborating with internationally recognised certification schemes like FSC® and PEFC, and contributing towards credits in sustainability certifications such as BREEAM, LEED, and DGNB. “It’s a comprehensive process,” she noted, “but it’s incredibly rewarding to see how it simplifies decision-making in the selection of building materials.”
As we delved deeper, Clara shared her initial encounter with EPDs. “I remember the first project where an EPD was crucial. It was a large residential development, and the client was committed to achieving a high LEED certification. We needed to ensure that every material used was as sustainable as possible.”
She paused, smiling at the memory. “The EPDs provided a level of clarity and confidence that we couldn’t get elsewhere. They gave us verified, objective data about the environmental impacts of the products, right from raw material extraction to disposal.”
Clara elaborated on the importance of this transparency. “In our industry, misinformation can lead to poor choices. But with an EPD, you have a document that’s been independently verified, offering insights into everything from greenhouse gas emissions to water use.”
When asked about the collaboration with third-party organisations, Clara was quick to highlight the significance. “Working with entities like Ramboll ensures that the data is not only comprehensive but also credible. It’s about building trust with our clients and stakeholders.”
The conversation naturally shifted to the broader implications of EPDs in the architectural sector. Clara explained, “For architects and developers, EPDs are indispensable tools. They allow us to not only compare products but also align with global sustainability goals.”
She stressed the need for the industry to embrace these tools actively. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore. It’s a necessity. With climate change becoming an ever-pressing issue, having transparency in our building processes is crucial.”
Clara’s insights into the practicality of EPDs were enlightening. “One of the best things about EPDs is how they streamline the accreditation process. When you’re aiming for certifications like BREEAM or LEED, having a set of verified data at your fingertips makes the process much smoother.”
Her enthusiasm was contagious as she spoke about the future of EPDs. “I believe we’re only scratching the surface. As more companies and professionals recognise the value of EPDs, we’ll see an even greater shift towards environmentally conscious building practices.”
Before concluding our conversation, Clara shared a thought that encapsulated her entire ethos. “For me, and I think for many in the industry, it’s about leaving a legacy. EPDs allow us to build not just for today, but for a sustainable tomorrow.”
Our interview ended on a hopeful note, with Clara expressing her commitment to continuing her work in this ever-evolving space. Her experiences shed light on the profound impact that transparency and traceability, through tools like EPDs, can have on the architectural world.
As I left our meeting, I felt a renewed sense of optimism. Clara’s journey with EPDs is a testament to the positive change that is possible when professionals are armed with the right tools and information. It’s a reminder that in the quest for sustainability, collaboration and innovation are our greatest allies.
Marcia Snyder
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