Why are EDPs essential?

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are of critical importance as they play a central role in meeting the increasing demand for transparency and sustainability in the construction industry. Sika has recognized the significant benefits of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and is pursuing a comprehensive approach that includes both the broad implementation of model EPDs for various product technologies in Europe and a global focus on streamlining the specific EPD creation process.

With the successful conclusion of its first EPD automation project in 2023, Sika will be able to provide its customers with accurate and comprehensive information about the environmental impact of its products, particularly concrete admixtures from 2024 onwards. EPDs are crucial for construction chemical companies as they can showcase the dedication to sustainability, respond to customer inquiries, and - if relevant - navigate the increasing pressure on concrete producers to reduce environmental impacts per cubic meter of concrete.

Model EPDs from industry associations continue to be an important source of product documentation for customers. Complementing these with this new approach, Sika could provide more flexibility for customer requests outside of Europe and in cases where more specific environmental impact values are needed.

How is the generation of EPDs automated?

Sika employs a sophisticated and innovative approach to generating EPDs, as exemplified by its first EPD automation project initiated in 2021. The company developed a comprehensive parameterized model to partially automate the EPD creation process in dedicated product sustainability software. This model facilitates a smooth data collection procedure, empowering users to efficiently generate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) results. The LCA results are seamlessly integrated into a detailed EPD report, ensuring accuracy and reliability. Through this method, Sika ensures that its EPDs adhere to recognized standards and provide stakeholders with a transparent and standardized view of the environmental impact of its products. A key benefit of the tool is that beginners and non-experts from a range of different disciplines can work with the interface to generate product EPDs.

What is special about this new automated approach?

This  approach to EPDs is distinguished by its innovative nature, setting a digitalization benchmark in the industry. For example, Sika had developped a custom software application specifically tailored to address the unique challenges associated with concrete admixtures. The parameterized model ensures flexibility and efficiency in data collection, contributing to a streamlined process. Moreover, by training all users  it can be ensured that EPDs are created consistently and accurately across diverse geographic locations and as such enhance environmental transparency.

Customer Benefits

Customers benefit significantly from the innovative EPD automation project. The automation of the EPD creation process enhances efficiency, allowing for quicker responses to customer inquiries. The standardized approach, coupled with comprehensive training for users, ensures consistency and reliability in the information provided. As a result, customers gain access to accurate, reliable, and standardized environmental information, allowing them to make informed and sustainable choices that align with their sustainability goals and the regulatory requirements.

Sika's forward-looking approach to exploring the broader applicability of this solution for other product technologies further demonstrates its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of customers and the construction industry. The customer benefits extend beyond the immediate access to information, contributing to a more sustainable and transparent construction ecosystem.