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Why EPDs matter for sustainability

As our impact on the planet continues to increase, sustainability is no longer just an option when it comes to designing, specifying, installing, and using products – it is essential. Two of the key principles of sustainable products are data and transparency – for us to understand a product's impact, we must have clear, accurate and detailed data with no hidden surprises!

EPDs provide essential information about the environmental performance of products, making it easier for architects, builders, and consumers to make informed decisions that align with their sustainability goals.

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What is an EPD

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardised document that provides detailed information about the environmental impact of a product throughout its life cycle. This includes data on energy use, raw material sourcing, emissions, waste generation, and other factors that contribute to the product's environmental footprint. EPDs are based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which is a comprehensive method for evaluating the environmental impacts associated with all stages of a product's lifecycle, from raw materials manufacture to end of life.

There are three key steps in producing an EPD:

  • Conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): This is the most critical step, where the environmental impacts of a product are assessed across its entire life cycle—from raw material extraction and manufacturing to use and disposal.
  • Verification: Once the LCA is completed, the data must be verified by an independent third party to ensure accuracy and compliance with the relevant standards.
  • Publication: After verification, the EPD is published and made available to the public. It is typically registered in a database, which provides access to a wide range of EPDs across different industries.

Why do we use them?

  • Transparency and accountability: EPDs promote transparency by providing objective, verified data about the environmental impact of products. This ensures that manufacturers are accountable for the impact of their products, and to continue to improve their environmental performance.
  • Informed decision-making: For end users, EPDs offer a reliable source of information that can be used to compare products based on their environmental impact. This gives them the opportunity to select the most sustainable option.
  • Compliance with Green Building Standards: Many sustainable building certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), recognise and reward the use of products with EPDs. Incorporating products with EPDs into a project can contribute to achieving higher certification levels.
  • Reduction of environmental impact: Ultimately, EPDs drive the reduction of environmental impacts by encouraging the use of products that have lower emissions, energy consumption, and waste production. This contributes to the overall goal of reducing global emissions.

At Altro, we have added product-specific EPDs to most of our floor and wall products - so you can see a breakdown of the product's lifecycle, and environmental impact indicators, like the product’s contribution to climate change. Unlike some other flooring and wall manufacturers, we offer detailed, product-specific EPDs, providing you with precise insights into our products' environmental impact.

We have recently added our first-ever Resin-based product EPD - another step in highlighting our commitment to sustainability and innovation. Explore how these products can help you achieve your sustainability goals alongside your design aspirations.

See our EPDs here

Published 26/09/2024