In June, the Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V. (IBU) invited its independent verifiers to the 12th Verification Committee. This annual meeting ensures the quality of environmental product declarations (EPDs) to strengthen confidence in sustainable construction.
The verifiers play a key role. They guarantee the objectivity of the environmental data in the EPDs through independent verification and, as external third parties, prevent conflicts of interest on the part of the manufacturers. The IBU has stood for transparent and reliable environmental data for over 40 years. Its expertise and commitment help building owners, architects and planners to make well-founded decisions in terms of sustainable building concepts.
At this year’s meeting, Stefan Zwerenz, Head of the Verification Department, welcomed 28 verifiers from all over the world, who elected a new chair from among themselves. After twelve years of outstanding work and co-development of EN 15804, Dr. Eva Schminke is handing over the chairmanship to Ms. Angela Schindler.
The committee discussed current innovations in PCR Part A, continuous improvements to harmonize verification practices, the verification of recycled construction products and the increasing demand for individual EPD and LCA tools. The digitalized workflow, from the creation to the publication of EPDs, is highlighted as a central component for efficiency and transparency in the verification process.
High demand for more verifiers
Stefan Zwerenz emphasized that with the increasing demand for EPDs, there is a great need for additional independent verifiers at IBU. “IBU will increasingly focus on appointing or hiring additional verifiers with the relevant technical expertise. Their work is of central importance for the EPD programme, supported by the IBU’s Advisory Board and Verification Body. Together, they help to ensure that environmental information is consistent, comparable and transparent – a key contribution to sustainable development in the construction industry.
In order to work as a verifier, extensive knowledge and experience in environmental sciences, civil engineering or related fields is required. They check the accuracy and completeness of the environmental data in the EPDs and ensure that they meet the normative requirements. Annual participation in the verification committee is mandatory in order to keep up to date with the latest technology, science and EPD regulations.
Their involvement in the verification process is crucial to shaping the future of sustainable construction. The IBU is looking forward to getting more committed verifiers on board and working together to further strengthen the transparency and quality of environmental declarations.