Introduction: Are Environmental Product Declarations Mandatory?
Are Environmental Product Declarations mandatory in the UK manufacturing industry? This is one of the most frequently asked questions by product manufacturers navigating sustainability regulations and green supply chain requirements. In this blog, we’ll break down when and where EPDs are required, and why they matter—even when they aren’t.
What Is an Environmental Product Declaration?
An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a third-party verified report that transparently presents a product’s environmental impact. It follows ISO 14025 and EN 15804 standards and is based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). EPDs are increasingly used in construction, manufacturing, and public procurement to support sustainable decision-making.
Are EPDs Legally Mandatory in the UK?
Currently, Environmental Product Declarations are not legally mandatory in the UK for most sectors. However, they are often required indirectly in:
- BREEAM-certified construction projects
- Public procurement contracts
- Sustainable product certifications
While the law may not mandate EPDs for every product, market expectations and client demands make them practically essential in many industries.
Sectors Where EPDs Are Practically Mandatory
In sectors like construction, infrastructure, and public projects, EPDs have become a standard requirement, particularly if your product is being used in green buildings.
For example:
- BREEAM grants additional credits to materials with verified EPDs
- Large contractors may only accept EPD-compliant materials
- Some local authorities prefer or require environmental declarations for procurement
International EPD Requirements
In Europe, EPDs are increasingly required under national regulations (e.g. France, Sweden, Italy).
In the Middle East, Saudi Arabia and UAE reference EPDs in their green building frameworks.
🔗 The International EPD System provides a global platform for verified EPDs.
Why You Should Have an EPD Even If It’s Not Mandatory
Even where EPDs are not required by law, they provide clear advantages:
- Help you win more tenders and green building contracts
- Prove compliance with sustainability goals and ESG standards
- Differentiate your product in a competitive UK market
- Prepare for future regulations and climate disclosures
Summary: Are EPDs Mandatory in the UK?
So, are Environmental Product Declarations mandatory for UK manufacturers? Legally—no.
Practically—yes, in sectors where sustainability and transparency are crucial.
Whether required by BREEAM, clients, or export markets, an EPD boosts your product’s credibility and opens doors to new opportunities.-
Get Help From EPD UK
At EPD UK, we support UK manufacturers with:
- Life Cycle Assessments (LCA)
- EPD preparation
- Third-party verification
- EPD publication under international schemes
➡️ Contact us today