Verification of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) – how strict should it be?

¹ Western Norwegian Research Institute, Box 163, NO-6851 Sogndal, Norway
² Norwegian Institute of Sustainability Research, Stadion 4, NO-1671 Kråkerøy, Norway

^* Corresponding author: fjo@vestforsk.no

Abstract

The verification of Environmental product declarations (EPDs) is often performed by an expert, who walks through pre-made standard checklists. As verification is not strictly defined by the EN 15804 standard, it can be performed in a number of different ways. This paper presents some emerging discussions from the Norwegian context on how strict EPD verification should be. Highlighted issues include how to verify computer-generated EPDs and user input to software in general, the possible scope of the responsibility of the EPD verifier, and more. Recommendations include the addition of an environmental completeness check module to the verification of EPDs, and harmonisation with EPD verification with the CE system, which allows a tiered system in which more environmentally significant products such as for instance concrete, can be assigned more scrutiny.