What information do Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) provide?

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) provide quantifiable life cycle assessment data specifically focused on the environmental impact of products. They are standardized documents that communicate the environmental performance of a product, based on a comprehensive analysis of its life cycle — from raw material extraction through manufacturing, distribution, use, and disposal.

The data presented in EPDs typically includes metrics on resource usage, energy consumption, emissions to air and water, and waste generation, among other environmental criteria. This information is valuable for architects, builders, and consumers who are interested in making environmentally responsible choices by understanding the environmental ramifications associated with a product.

Other options, although related to product information, do not accurately reflect the primary function of EPDs. For instance, while safety information, design aesthetics, and marketing data are important aspects of product offerings, they are not the focus of what EPDs convey. Instead, EPDs serve a critical role in promoting transparency in environmental claims, guiding sustainable development practices.