Q&A: GPI v4.0, single EPD dataset registration and EPD digitalisation

6th Jul 2022

As you may be aware there are some significant changes on the horizon for EPDs, we have put together some commonly asked Q&As below around these changes and welcome any further questions to info@epd-australasia.com.

The changes are a result of updated General Programme Instructions (GPIs) as well as increased demand for EPD data – particularly for building and construction products. The rules for EPDs registered with EPD Australasia are contained in the GPIs of the International EPD System and are periodically updated. The current GPI version 3.01 is currently being replaced by GPI version 4.0 (GPI v4.0).

When do we move to one dataset per EPD registration?

Section 9.3 of GPI v4.0 essentially requires one LCA dataset per EPD registration number. Multiple products can be included under one EPD registration number only if the results for all indicators are within +/- 10% (see more details below). This change kicks in as each PCR is updated to align with GPI v4.0. For construction products the new PCR that facilitates this change was released on 23^rd June, there is a 6 month transition period so for construction products this means the change formally kicks in from 1 January 2023.

Will EPD registration prices change?

In anticipation of this change EPD Australasia updated our pricing structure in 2021 and significantly reduced the pricing for second and subsequent EPD dataset registration. Registrations will be closely monitored after the adoption of GPI 4.0 to ensure a smooth transition and acceptable market pricing.

Can I still publish my EPD in PDF format?

Yes, all EPDs can continue to be published in PDF format.

What will happen to my existing EPD that has data for multiple products?

Existing EPDs will continue to be published for their whole validity period. These EPDs can continue to be updated and new products added within the existing validity (i.e., the update cannot extend the validity).

After the end of their validity, like all EPDs, they will need to meet the requirements of the version of the GPI that is current at the time of the update.

Can I include multiple products/datasets in one PDF document?

No, each EPD dataset will require its own PDF version.

What constitutes a single EPD dataset?

Section 9.3.1 of GPI 4.0 states that “similar products from a single or several manufacturing sites covered by the same PCR and manufactured by the same company with the same major steps in the core processes may be included in the same EPD [dataset] if none of the declared environmental performance indicators differ by more than 10% between any of the included products. The results for the environmental performance indicators of one representative product shall be declared according to Section 9.5.5. The choice of the representative product shall be justified in the EPD, using, where applicable, statistical parameters.”

In GPI v3.01 similar products with differences between the environmental indicators higher than ±10% were able to be included in the same EPD if results were presented differently for each product. Once GPI version 4.0 is fully implemented this will no longer be possible. Please refer to the relevant PCR for further product specific details.

What about single datasets and data digitisation?

A single dataset is required for digitalisation. Digital datasets can now be received alongside the traditional PDF’s of the EPD.

Will existing EPD datasets be digitised?

It is important to note that there are several databases in the private and public domain that are taking existing EPD data published in PDFs and digitising it.

The EPD International System have a program to digitise each EPD currently published, including those published with EPD Australasia. Currently this program is limited to the first EPD dataset for each EPD but we are exploring other ways to digitise existing EPDs.

How will future EPDs be published?

Within EPD Australasia and EPD International System databases EPDs will be published in both PDF and digital form.

The process for accepting digital EPD data has already commenced and EPD owners can and should begin providing data in XLSX spreadsheet format (template is available on request).

Once EPD Australasia is connected to the EPD portal all digital EPDs will be able to be access through both the EPD Australasia website and that of the International EPD System.

Watch a recording of our webinar: Digitalisation and the future of EPDs for more detailed information.