The introduction and tightening of energy efficiency requirements for buildings under the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) poses new challenges for the construction industry, but also opens up opportunities for the development of sustainable and innovative solutions. This article will discuss key aspects of this directive and its significance for the construction industry, as well as the importance of the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) in this context. Understanding the document’s objectives and requirements is crucial for all construction market players to align their operations with legislative expectations and contribute to environmental protection.
What is the EPBD directive and what does it introduce?
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is a key piece of European Union legislation aimed at improving the energy efficiency of buildings and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the construction sector. It introduces a number of requirements for the design, construction, and operation of buildings, including: by 2030, all new buildings in the EU must be zero-emission, which requires, for example, the application of high energy efficiency standards and the use of renewable energy sources. In this context, environmental product declarations (EPDs) for construction products are playing an increasingly important role.
How does EPD support the implementation of the requirements of the EPBD directive?
Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) significantly support the implementation of the EPBD requirements, which consists of the following elements:
1. Calculating the carbon footprint of buildings
The amendment to the EPBD introduces the requirement to calculate and disclose the global warming potential (GWP) for the entire life cycle of a building, including construction, operation, renovation, and demolition (Article 7). This requirement applies to new buildings with an area exceeding 1,000 m² from 1 January 2028, and to all new buildings from 2030. EPDs provide essential environmental data on the construction products used, which are the basis for a reliable calculation of a building’s carbon footprint.
2. Transparent information about the product’s impact on the environment
Thanks to the transparent and verified information contained in EPDs, investors, designers, and contractors can consciously choose building materials that minimize negative environmental impact. This, in turn, translates into higher energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions during the building’s use.
3. Compliance with standards and future regulations
Currently, obtaining an EPD is not mandatory, but the amendment to the Construction Product Regulation (CPR) introduces new extensions to the scope of information and reporting on the environmental impact of construction products, including the carbon footprint across their entire life cycle. Obtaining an EPD early will allow manufacturers and investors to better prepare for the new requirements and differentiate themselves in the market.
4. Support for sustainable construction certification
In addition to supporting the EPBD, EPDs are also a key element of building certification systems such as LEED, BREEAM, and DGNB , which increasingly require consideration of the environmental impact of materials used. As a result, EPDs contribute to achieving EU climate goals and promoting sustainable construction. Support for certification systems and compliance with standards make EPDs an essential tool in achieving energy efficiency in buildings in accordance with the EPBD.
Benefits for the construction market
Having an EPD for construction products means not only meeting the requirements of the EPBD directive , but also a number of other benefits:
- Increasing market competitiveness through transparency and credibility of environmental information;Â
- Possibility to participate in strategic tenders and investments;Â Â
- Building a positive image of the company as a leader in sustainable development;Â
- Increasing transparency and optimization of production and investment processes;Â
- Supporting the implementation of EU climate and energy goals, which is becoming increasingly important for investors and consumers
The importance of EPD in the context of the future of construction
As demands for energy efficiency and sustainability grow, EPDs are becoming a key element of the construction industry’s strategy . Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are a crucial tool in implementing the EPBD, supporting the energy efficiency of buildings and contributing to the industry’s sustainable development and environmental protection. These changes are crucial for the future of the construction sector, impacting the quality of life of residents and environmental protection. It is worthwhile to invest in developing EPD-related competencies and promoting their use among all players in the construction market, which will contribute to a better future for all of us.
