What is an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)?

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a report that provides detailed information regarding the environmental impact of a product over its life cycle. This includes data on resource usage, emissions, and other ecological aspects, following standardized protocols such as those outlined by ISO 14025. EPDs are intended to help consumers make informed decisions by offering transparency about the environmental effects of products, thus facilitating comparisons between different products in a consistent manner.

In contrast to marketing strategies, warranties, or inspection processes, an EPD is a specific type of document that quantifies environmental performance rather than promoting products or assuring quality. It is primarily used in green building certifications and initiatives to illustrate how a product contributes to sustainable building practices.