Handling Changes in EPD Data During EPD Validity Period

Once an EPD is published with a program operator, it is valid for a 5 year period from the date of issue as mentioned in EN 15804+A2:2019, section 9.

During this period, there may be a need to modify or update the EPD for various reasons (for e.g., change in composition of materials, change in the source of electricity, change in manufacturing location or other parameters). Section 9 of EN 15804+A2:2019 states that “an EPD shall only be reassessed and updated as necessary to reflect changes in technology or other circumstances that could alter the content and accuracy of the declaration”. EN 15804+A2 also states that if the underlying data in the EPD has not changed significantly (+/- 10% on any one of the declared indicators), the EPD does not have to be recalculated. Some program operators explicitly mention in their General Programme Instructions (GPIs) and/or Product Category Rules (PCRs) about the obligation of the manufacturer in updating EPDs if there is a change in the results of +/- 10%. If this is not clearly stated, the program operator needs to be contacted for further guidance. Any additional information to be included in the updated version will also be specified in the GPI.

When updating the EPD the same requirements shall be fulfilled as in the development of the original declaration, i.e. verification of the changes in the LCA-based data, additional environmental information and the declaration. The EPD owner is responsible for notifying the program operator of the requested changes in an EPD, while supplying with a document from the verifier confirming conformance with relevant requirements. At this stage, the program operator shall publish the updated declaration.

If you want to update an EPD which was published via One Click LCA’s verification and publishing services, please reach out to us at [e-mail].