The construction industry is undergoing a significant shift, driven by a growing awareness of its environmental footprint.
A collective of major US contractors, united under the Carbon Action Network (contractorsCAN), has issued a powerful call for greater transparency from building material manufacturers. In an open letter circulated earlier this month, the group, including prominent firms like Clayco, Clark Construction, Skanska, Turner, Holder, and Yates Construction, urged manufacturers to prioritize the creation and dissemination of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
The letter highlights the critical role EPDs play in achieving greater sustainability within the industry. An EPD is a standardized document that quantifies the environmental impact of a product throughout its entire lifecycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. This comprehensive data empowers architects, engineers, and contractors to make informed decisions, selecting materials that align with their sustainability goals and contribute to a reduced carbon footprint for their projects.
ContractorsCAN’s plea for proactive adoption of EPDs isn’t merely a suggestion; it reflects a growing industry-wide demand for transparency. The letter clearly states that providing this information isn’t just about meeting increasing regulatory pressures or responding to client demands; it’s about fostering a culture of responsible environmental stewardship. By offering clear and credible data on a product’s environmental performance, manufacturers can actively contribute to the overall sustainability of the construction sector.
While the contractors acknowledge the initial investment required for EPD assessment and documentation, they emphasize that the long-term benefits – both environmental and economic – far outweigh the costs. The ability to showcase a product’s lower environmental impact can be a significant competitive advantage in a market increasingly focused on sustainability. Furthermore, contributing to a more sustainable built environment benefits society as a whole.
This initiative represents a significant step towards a more environmentally conscious construction industry. By demanding transparency from manufacturers, contractors are taking ownership of their environmental responsibility and driving positive change. The success of this call to action depends on the collaborative efforts of both contractors and manufacturers, working together to create a more sustainable future for the built environment. The industry waits to see how manufacturers will respond to this vital request for transparency and accountability.
Source: Building Transparency with additional information added by GlassBalkan
