Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

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EPD is a standardised way of quantifying the potential environmental impacts of a product or system. EPDs are produced according to a consistent set of rules – Product Category Rules (PCR) – that define the requirements within a given product category. These rules are a key part of ISO 14025 (ISO 2006) as they enable transparency and comparability between EPDs. EPD Australasia is an independent framework for business in Australia and New Zealand to provide objective, science-based environmental data and other information about their products and services. There are two alternatives for verification:

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• EPD Individual Verification (most common): verification of LCA-based data, additional environmental information and the EPD, conducted by a recognised individual verifier, or:

• EPD Process Certification: verification of an internal organisation process that creates EPDs according to the General Programme Instructions. Only accredited certification bodies are allowed to certify an EPD Process. 

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The EDP benefits include quantification of impact across a broad range of environmental issue to reduce corporate risk and improve product performance, avoiding greenwashing and providing a sound basis for marketing claims, providing comprehensive and credible information for end user on environmental performance of products

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How to create an EPD

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Creating an EPD and getting it registered and published by EPD Australasia includes the following steps:

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1. Find, or create, a relevant Product Category Rule (PCR) for your product (see here)

2. Undertake an LCA study according to the PCR

3. Compile the EPD Report based on the LCA

4. Get the EPD and background data independently verified

5. Registration and publication with EPD Australasia and the International EPD® System

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 website: https://epd-australasia.com/

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 Relevant associations

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• International EPD System 

Intertek 

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Intertek’s Verified Recycled Content program includes an evaluation report, certificate and the use of an Intertek Sustainability Certification mark that can be used on products and packaging and will help you to effectively market your recycled content claim to your customers. 

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The verification process involves several steps with the Intertek team:

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1. Data Collections and Analysis: Intertek helps you assemble your data and documentation required for our review. This includes information about manufacturing, processes, and chain of custody procedures for materials to determine if conformance is achieved as well as the nature of your claim.

2. Evaluation: The Intertek evaluator writes a draft assessment report that details the findings of the review, including data analysis, non-conformities, and opportunities for improvement. You are required to respond to any non-conformities with a root cause analysis and corrective action.

3. Onsite Inspection: The evaluator uses a risk-based approach to determine if an onsite inspection is required based on the data and documentation collected in step 1. If it is needed, the onsite inspection may be recommended prior to granting certification.

4. Technical Review: The Intertek Program Manager reviews the evaluation and report, which is then sent to you for review and comment, prior to certification.

5. Certification Decision: If the requirements of the verification are met, Intertek issues the final report, certificate(s), and certification mark. Once certified, your company and products are listed on the Intertek Sustainability Certification Directory. 

6. Certification Maintenance: Certification is valid for 3 years provided there are no changes to materials, suppliers, processes, etc. Intertek’s Certification Manager will send a brief survey each year to confirm that no changes have occurred.

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 website: https://www.intertek.com/sustainability/recycledcontent/