IBU has no basic requirements for the software used to calculate the LCA. The use of Umberto, SimaPro, openLCA and other tools available on the market is generally permitted.
IBU’s EPD platform is not itself a tool for LCA calculation or a database for LCA data, but is used to enter, verify and publish the final EPD data in a standardized and digitized format. IBU is not involved in the upstream step of preparing the LCA.
In principle, the EPD platform or an EPD tool verified by IBU must be used to create (enter data) and submit the EPD. The requirements for EPD tools and LCA tools are set out in the General Program Instructions.
IBU does not impose any general restrictions on the selection of background databases. However, there are often corresponding specifications for EPD applications on the market and in certification systems to ensure a database that is as uniform as possible for users of EPD data. which must be taken into account when selecting for EPD creation depending on the target market; IBU will be happy to provide you with information on this.