What is an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)?
An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardized, verified document that provides transparent, credible information about a product’s environmental impact. Governed by the ISO 14025 standard, EPDs are based on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies and are essential for sustainability reporting, green building certification, and eco-conscious product marketing.
Why Are EPDs Important for Sustainable Business?
- Growing demand for eco-friendly products
- Regulatory compliance with international environmental standards
- Enhances corporate sustainability reporting
- Supports green procurement and ESG goals
- Boosts competitive advantage in sustainable markets
EPD vs. LCA: Key Differences
- LCA (Life Cycle Assessment): Comprehensive analysis of a product’s environmental impact across its lifecycle (ISO 14040/44 standards).
- EPD: A simplified, third-party verified summary of an LCA, ideal for marketing and compliance.
- Key takeaway: Every EPD is based on an LCA, but not all LCAs result in an EPD.
EPD Standards & Global Compliance
- ISO 14025: Framework for Type III Environmental Declarations.
- ISO 21930: Governs construction-related EPDs.
- EN 15804+A2: European standard for construction product EPDs.
- TRACI 2.1: U.S. standard for environmental impact assessment.
- Product Category Rules (PCRs): Define calculation rules for specific product categories.
EPD Regulations in the Construction & Manufacturing Industry
- Construction Products Regulation (CPR) (EU): Will require EPDs in the Declaration of Performance (DoP) for construction materials from 2026.
- Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) (US): Promotes EPD adoption in sustainable infrastructure projects.
- Digital Product Passport (DPP) (EU 2028): Mandatory digital records of EPD data for construction products.
How to Choose the Right EPD Program Operator (EPD PO)
Selecting the best EPD Program Operator is crucial. Consider the following:
- Do they have mutual recognition agreements for international validation?
- What are their costs for registration, publication, and maintenance?
- Do they align with your industry and sustainability goals?
8 Essential Steps to Create an EPD
- Choose an EPD Program Operator (EPD PO).
- Identify the relevant Product Category Rule (PCR).
- Conduct an LCA following ISO 14040/44 standards.
- Engage a third-party verifier for independent validation.
- Draft the EPD document as per PO guidelines.
- Review & verify the EPD with industry experts.
- Incorporate feedback & finalize the EPD.
- Publish & register the EPD for public and industry use.
How EPDs Benefit Your Business & ESG Strategy
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets sustainability reporting & ESG disclosure requirements.
- Brand Differentiation: Positions your company as a leader in eco-conscious manufacturing.
- Cost Efficiency: Representative EPDs reduce overall documentation costs.
- Green Certifications: Supports LEED, BREEAM, and sustainable procurement initiatives.
Get Started with EPDs Today
EPDs are a crucial tool for sustainability leadership, compliance, and market differentiation. Whether you need an EPD, LCA verification, or Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) assessment, platforms like Ecochain Helix simplify the process and help businesses generate reliable sustainability reports.
👉 Accelerate your sustainability journey today!