The recording and slides for session 1 of the Spring 2026 EPD Bootcamp are now available!
1. Standards, Regulations & Global Trends
Are EPDs becoming compulsory for manufacturers in the EU?
Yes, through regulations like the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), the EU is moving toward mandatory environmental reporting.
What are the global alternatives to European standards?
While EN 15804+A2 is the standard in Europe, ISO 21930 serves as the primary global alternative for EPDs.
How do we mandate EPDs in regions like Nigeria?
It starts with professionals in the built environment defining the EPD objective (e.g., market entry in the EU) and selecting a prestigious Program Operator to set a local market example.
What are the opportunities for LCA in India?
As global supply chains decarbonize, Indian manufacturers providing EPDs gain a competitive edge in international markets.
Are there similar systems to decarbonize the construction industry in Southeast Asia?
While it depends on local political agendas, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) acts as a major driver for external suppliers to decarbonize their factories to avoid “carbon leakage”.
What are Digital Product Passports (DPP)?
The DPP is a key part of the EU’s ESPR framework, designed to provide transparent product sustainability data across the value chain.
Does hazardous substance reporting apply outside the EU?
Yes, if a product is sold in Europe, the manufacturer must often provide a REACH declaration or list Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) to comply with EN 15804.
What is the difference between EN 15804+A1 and +A2?
EN 15804+A2 is an updated, more comprehensive version that aligns with the EU’s PEF methodology and increases the number of mandatory environmental indicators from 7 to 13.
2. EPD vs. LCA & Methodology Basics
What comes first: the EPD or the LCA?
The LCA always comes first as the technical background study; once it is third-party verified, it becomes an official EPD.
What is the difference between an EPD and a Product Carbon Footprint (PCF)?
A PCF (ISO 14067) focuses exclusively on Global Warming Potential (carbon), while an EPD reports a comprehensive set of environmental indicators based on a full LCA.
Can a verified EPD be used when a PCF is requested?
Generally, yes, since an EPD contains GWP results; however, you must ensure the system boundaries and allocation rules match the specific PCF requirements.
Are EPDs used for non-construction products?
Yes, they are prevalent in electronics, furniture, packaging, and even food products like pasta.
What about reconditioned products?
Standards for electronic products (like EN 50693) can apply to a wide range of devices, including reconditioned items.
3. Data Quality, Comparison & Verification
Are EPDs truly comparable?
Not yet perfectly “plug-and-play” due to variations in Product Category Rules (PCRs) and database choices; comparison requires ensuring both products follow the same base rules.
Can I get 100% accurate CO2 percentages for any EU supplier?
While EPDs offer high-quality data, “100% accuracy” is difficult to claim globally due to variability in material types and regional data.
What is a “generic LCA database”?
These are databases like ecoinvent or national databases used to model materials when product-specific EPDs are not yet available.
Are there statistics on global cPCR coverage?
Collected data is challenging to find because of the many different Program Operators and industry bodies involved.
Can I publish an EPD if a PCR doesn’t exist?
Yes, you can work with a Program Operator to develop a path forward.
How do I choose a Program Operator (PO)?
Select based on the availability of a suitable PCR, recognition in your target market, and practical factors like cost and verification standards.
Does a pre-verified tool provide a “genuinely verified” EPD?
This was addressed live regarding how One Click LCA’s pre-verified tools interact with human verifiers to ensure rigorous compliance.
4. System Boundaries & Product-Specific Scenarios
Is Module A4 (Transport to site) mandatory?
No, but some Program Operators require it if transport emissions exceed a certain percentage or distance.
Where does “off-site storage” belong?
If it is part of the manufacturing logistics before sale, it is Module A3; if it occurs during transit to the customer, it is Module A4.
How do I model End-of-Life (EoL) without local standards?
You can model it using a representative local scenario with a provided reference or use a conservative “worst-case” scenario like 100% landfill.
What does “secondary material” refer to?
It refers to material recovered from previous use or waste which substitutes primary (virgin) materials.
Are there statistics on recycled material use?
While overall percentages are currently low, specific materials like steel have much higher scrap content in certain regions. The EU publishes specific industry data on recycled material content as well.
Can EPDs from one product be inputs for another?
Yes, a verified EPD for a component can serve as the verified input data for the LCA of a more complex finished product.
5. Professional Development & Tool Application
Can I transition from food LCA to construction EPDs?
Yes, the core LCA skills are transferable, though you must learn the specific sectoral regulations and Program Operator requirements.
Does being a building LCA expert qualify me as an EPD expert?
While calculations are similar, EPD expertise requires additional knowledge of Program Operator requirements, material production processes and specific regulations.
Can One Click LCA be used for EcoDesign/R&D?
Yes, it allows for scenario modeling to test different raw materials and supply chains to eliminate carbon “hotspots” before production begins.
How do I find a job after this course?
Students are encouraged to check the One Click LCA careers page for available opportunities.
How is pricing structured for the EPD Maker?
Pricing for the EPD Generation tool is structured based on your specific needs, and inquiries are handled by the sales team.
6. Bootcamp Logistics
How long is the software license?
You have access to the temporary training license for one month from the start of exam in the bootcamp, which takes place on thursday.
Is the certificate free?
Yes, the training certificate is free and becomes available once you complete the exam at the end of the course.
Is the EPD onboarding course mentored?
Yes, the onboarding program is a mentored, live, one-on-one experience.