What are Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)?
An EPD is a standardized, independently verified document that provides transparent information on the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle. Based on the ISO 14040 series, which focuses on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), an EPD covers various environmental impacts, such as resource depletion, energy consumption, emissions and waste generation.
The role of LCA in EPDs
The process of creating an EPD begins with an LCA, a scientific analysis that evaluates the environmental burdens associated with a product, from raw material extraction through to production, use and disposal. This comprehensive assessment helps identify opportunities for environmental improvement across the product's entire lifecycle.
Why EPDs matter for businesses and consumers
EPDs serve as valuable tools for businesses, enabling them to communicate their environmental performance clearly to customers and stakeholders. By offering verified and comparable data, EPDs help consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions, aligning with growing demands for sustainability and transparency.
EPDs in construction: driving green building practices
In industries such as construction, EPDs support green building certifications like LEED and BREEAM by providing detailed insights into the environmental impacts of building materials. This allows architects and builders to choose more sustainable options, contributing to eco-friendly construction practices.
The growing importance of EPDs in sustainability
Pranav Negi, SGS Carbon Services Manager, said: “As sustainability becomes a global priority, the role of EPDs in promoting transparent, environmentally conscious decision-making will continue to grow, helping both businesses and consumers contribute to a more sustainable future.”
How SGS supports EPD creation and verification
We offer a full suite of services to support the creation and verification of Environmental Product Declarations. Our expert advisory and verification services ensure accurate environmental footprint calculations, while our training programs enhance understanding of EPD concepts and related software.
For further information, please contact:
Pranav Negi
Manager Carbon Services, Industries & Environment
t: +91 8655838547
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,700 laboratories and business facilities across 119 countries, supported by a team of 99,250 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, safety and compliance.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and sustainability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
