International EPD System: A Manufacturer’s Field Guide
Choosing the right program operator can feel like trying to pick a smartphone plan—everyone promises coverage "everywhere" but the fine print decides whether you spend weeks chasing signatures or drop your EPD on a specifier’s desk before the bid window closes.
What exactly is the International EPD System?
Launched in Sweden in 1998, the International EPD System (run by EPD International AB) publishes environmental product declarations that follow ISO 14025 and EN 15804. The program now lists more than 5,600 EPDs across 60 countries (Environdec, 2025). Although its logo reads “International,” think of it more as a European heavyweight with global reach rather than a UN-style referee.
Global name, local credibility
Specifiers in Europe often treat an Environdec EPD as interchangeable with national schemes like IBU or BRE. In the United States, the program is accepted on LEED v4 and v5 projects, yet some state Buy Clean rules still prefer home-grown operators. Translation: an International EPD System label travels well but may need a buddy pass in highly regional markets.
PCR hunting made easier
The platform hosts over 500 active product category rules (PCRs) covering everything from cement to ceiling fans. Use the free search tool to benchmark which PCR your rivals cite. If no perfect match exists, the operator lets industry groups propose a new draft within four to six months, roughly half the time reported by many regional schemes (IVL, 2024).
Verification and cost checkpoints
Every EPD here undergoes third-party review. Fees come in three slices: registration, verification, and annual maintenance. Public price grids list €900 for a five-year registration, yet verification invoices vary wildly—€3,000 to €9,000—depending on product complexity (Environdec Fee Schedule, 2025). Factor in exchange rates and bank charges if you operate in dollars.
Timelines you can actually control
Once the verifier signs off, the secretariat typically publishes within 10 working days. The bottleneck is upstream: data gathering and draft LCA creation. Teams that standardize utility pulls and supplier questionnaires cut their total calendar time by up to 70 percent, according to a 2024 survey of 112 manufacturers (BCG Climate Report, 2024).
When the International EPD System is the smart call
Choose this operator if your sales pipeline spans multiple EU nations, or if you want a single EPD to serve both North American and European green-building ratings. Skip it if local regulations dictate a national database upload—the admin work to double-publish can cancel out any speed gains.
Key takeaways for speed-focused teams
An International EPD System label offers broad market recognition, a deep PCR library, and predictable publishing windows. Budget ahead for euro-denominated fees and lock in a verifier early. Most importantly, streamline your internal data chase so the enviromental paperwork never outruns the product launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the International EPD System accept EN 15804 +A2 EPDs?
Yes, the operator updated its General Programme Instructions in 2023 to align with EN 15804 +A2, and every construction-sector EPD registered after July 1 2024 must use the A2 impact method unless another standard applies.
Can one EPD cover multiple factories under this program?
Yes, but you must report weighted average impacts and include a location-based sensitivity analysis if the spread in energy mixes exceeds 10 %.
How long after registering will my EPD appear online?
Publication usually occurs within 10 business days after the verifier and secretariat approve the final PDF.
Are renewal fees lower than first-time registration?
Yes. Renewal (after five years) currently costs €600 versus €900 for a new registration, but verification fees apply again.
About the Author
Eric works at the intersection of sustainability, regulation, and business strategy, helping manufacturers navigate the evolving landscape of EPDs and LCAs. Having spoken with hundreds of teams across North America, brings a deep understanding of what drives ROI, what regulators are asking for, and how companies can stay ahead with smart, scalable approaches to environmental reporting.
