Not every product variant automatically needs a separate EPD. The declared scope, underlying data and rules for your product group determine the appropriate approach.
One product, several sites or a product group
A specific EPD can cover a particular product from one or several sites. An average EPD describes a defined average product. The choice must fit the actual data: a shared commercial name alone does not justify grouping products.
Association and model approaches
Manufacturer groups may use approaches such as average or model EPDs. For a model approach, check the criteria for assigning your specific product. Individualisation is a controlled process, not unrestricted reuse of someone else’s declaration.
Consider target markets early
Identify countries, customer requirements and intended uses before starting the LCA. Additional requirements or recognition procedures may require further assessments. An appropriate language alone does not establish suitability for every target market.
Prepare the decision
Create an overview of product names, composition, variants, sites and production volumes. Highlight similarities and differences. Your LCA specialist can use it to propose suitable scope; clarify outstanding programme questions with IBU.
Understand further EPD approaches
Depending on the project, project-specific EPDs or worst-case approaches for manufacturer groups may also be relevant. A worst-case approach needs a technical basis establishing which products the selected representation covers. The choice between a core EPD and a more comprehensive IBU EPD also depends on required content and use. Clarify these choices before collecting data.