What is an EPD and why does it matter for timber?

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardised, third-party verified document that quantifies the environmental impact of a product across its lifecycle, following EN 15804. EPDs provide the embodied carbon data (Global Warming Potential) used in whole-life carbon assessments.

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardised, third-party verified document that quantifies the environmental impact of a product across its lifecycle, following EN 15804. EPDs provide the embodied carbon data (Global Warming Potential) used in whole-life carbon assessments. Specifiers should request EPDs from timber suppliers to obtain accurate, product-specific carbon data rather than relying on generic database values.

Why this matters

This question relates to Carbon Footprint of European Timber vs Steel vs Concrete, which covers the broader topic in detail. Understanding this specific aspect helps architects, builders, and timber dealers make informed specification decisions.

For full context and additional technical detail, see our comprehensive guide:

→ Carbon Footprint of European Timber vs Steel vs Concrete

Related questions

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• Does timber have a lower carbon footprint than concrete?

About this answer

This answer is part of the PuurModulair Knowledge Base — comprehensive timber specification guidance for architects, builders, and dealers across the UK, EU, and Scandinavia.