The construction industry is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, therefore adopting sustainable practices where possible is essential.
Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) offer a standardised method for assessing the environmental impact of materials throughout their lifecycle, aiding specifiers, engineers, and local authorities to make informed decisions that support green procurement goals. This not only helps in reducing the overall carbon footprint of construction projects but also promotes the use of materials that are environmentally responsible and sustainable.
The parameters of environmental product declarations
Choosing sustainable road furniture hinges on the provision of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), which offer a comprehensive dataset detailing the environmental impact and carbon footprint of a product. In Europe, EPDs adhere to a common methodology for all stages of the product life cycle, as outlined in the standard EN 15804.
A compliant EPD provides data on a product’s environmental impacts throughout its lifetime, measuring various factors such as Global Warming Potential and Acidification to evaluate the impact on carbon footprint, water, air, soil and ecosystems. This transparency allows manufacturers to demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility. It also enables specifiers to compare and select the most sustainable products for their projects.
When combined with the product performance standard EN 124:2015, these independent, third-party certifications provide assurance and ease of mind for product approval.
EPD is established on the basis of 1kg of respective product materials and the LCA methodology takes in all steps of the product lifecycle.
Environmental and sustainability commitments from manufacturers
Companies like EJ are dedicated to global sustainability, adhering to environmental legislation and approved codes of practice. They are continuously innovating to reduce their carbon footprint by minimising waste, recycling materials, and using resources efficiently.
As global leaders in the design, manufacture, and distribution of access solutions for underground infrastructure, EJ is committed to leading our markets in helping clients achieve their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
EPDs are available for Fabricated Steel and high strength Composite covers, manufactured in Ireland.
Further details of the EPDs for EJ products are also published on EPD Ireland Portal, operated by the Irish Green Building Council, and are accessible via ECO Platform Database.
For more information, please contact the Business Development Department in EJ on 057 912 3100.