ASTM-led consortium eyes improved PCR, LCA and EPD for green building interests

Sources: ASTM International, West Conshohocken, Pa.; CP staff

A first-of-its-kind consortium in the green-building industry convened 15 manufacturers and industry representatives in a roundtable discussion on the needs for enhancing product transparency and stewardship through effective product category rules (PCR), life cycle assessment reports (LCA), environmental product declarations (EPD), and Sustainable Minds Transparency Reports.

The roundtable was held in conjunction with an ASTM International conference involving top technical experts in sustainability and building performance. “As the demand for environmental stewardship across the green building industry increases, the need for consistent, standardized, and scalable solutions grows in tandem,” says ASTM Vice President Tim Brooke. “That’s exactly what our four organizations are aiming to address as we communicate and deliver the value of voluntary product stewardship.”

ASTM, NSF International, ICC Evaluation Service and Sustainable Minds launched the Program Operator Consortium last year to serve as an expert resource and advocate for creating PCR, reviewing LCA, plus verifying and publishing EPD. During its mid-April roundtable, the consortium announced a) that its members have aligned how they develop PCR and EPD, giving greater flexibility and visibility for manufacturers and decision-makers who are tasked with finding, comparing and selecting products for projects; and, b) a May 1 launch of www.programoperators.org, where manufacturers, design professionals and specifiers can learn about product transparency, the consortium’s approach, and industry educational events. ASTM staff liaison is Chris Surak, 610/832-9611; [email protected].