When I sat down with Sarah Thompson, a sustainability consultant who has spent over a decade in the field of environmental compliance and green procurement, she seemed eager to share her insights into the world of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Her enthusiasm was infectious, and it was clear that EPDs, although technical and intricate, play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices.
Discover how Focus360 Energy aids sustainable development with Sustainability Statements.
“EPDs are essentially the passports for products,” Sarah began, her analogy instantly making the technical seem accessible. “They tell you everything you need to know about a product’s environmental impact, much like how a passport contains all essential information about a person.”
An Environmental Product Declaration, as Sarah explained, is a verified document that provides transparent information about a product’s environmental impact throughout its life cycle. It follows specific standards, namely the ISO 14025, ensuring the data is credible and comparable across similar products. EPDs are derived from a detailed Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which evaluates the environmental impacts from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal.
One of the most compelling aspects of EPDs, Sarah noted, is their growing importance in green public procurement processes. “Governments and large organisations are increasingly using EPDs to inform their purchasing decisions,” she explained. “This is because they offer a standardised way to compare the environmental performance of products, making it easier to choose more sustainable options.”
But why are EPDs so essential in these processes? Sarah pointed out that EPDs often serve as prerequisites for certifications like LEED and BREEAM, which are integral to achieving sustainable building standards. “For any company looking to get their building projects certified, having EPDs for the materials used can significantly streamline the process,” she said. Not only do they help in obtaining certifications, but they also enhance a company’s reputation as an environmentally responsible entity.
Sarah also highlighted the benefits of EPDs compared to other environmental reporting tools. “Unlike other reports, EPDs are verified by independent experts, which adds a layer of credibility,” she explained. “This verification process is rigorous, ensuring the information is both reliable and comprehensive.”
Another advantage she noted was the strategic insights EPDs offer businesses. “They provide detailed data that can inform product development and material sourcing decisions,” Sarah said. “For example, if a company learns through EPDs that a particular material has a high environmental impact, they might explore alternative materials that are more sustainable.”
Choosing the right EPD Program Operator (EPD PO) can be a daunting task, Sarah acknowledged. Each operator has its own set of rules and costs, which can vary significantly. However, she emphasised the importance of selecting an operator that aligns with a company’s specific needs and market demands. “It’s not just about cost,” she said. “It’s about finding an operator that understands your market and can offer mutual recognition agreements, which is crucial for businesses operating internationally.”
As we delved deeper into the conversation, Sarah shared her experience with the practical steps involved in creating an EPD. From selecting the right EPD PO to gathering comprehensive LCA data and undergoing third-party verification, the process is detailed but rewarding. “It might seem like a lot of work upfront,” she admitted, “but once you have that EPD, it opens up so many opportunities in terms of market positioning and competitive edge.”
In the construction industry, EPDs are particularly significant due to the sector’s substantial environmental impact. Sarah outlined how regulations like the Construction Products Regulation in Europe are pushing for the integration of EPDs into the Declaration of Performance for construction products. “With construction accounting for a significant portion of global waste and carbon emissions, EPDs are becoming a non-negotiable part of the process,” she emphasised.
The conversation with Sarah left me with a profound appreciation for the role EPDs play in driving sustainability. They are more than just technical documents; they are pivotal tools in the quest for transparency and environmental accountability. As businesses and governments continue to prioritise sustainability, the importance of EPDs is only set to grow.
In conclusion, Sarah’s firsthand experience and insights provide a comprehensive understanding of EPDs and their crucial role in modern environmental practices. For companies looking to enhance their sustainability credentials, embracing EPDs might be the key to unlocking new opportunities in a rapidly evolving market.
By Marcia Snyder
Be the first to comment