Are EPDs required for timber in construction?

EPDs are not legally required for timber products in most jurisdictions, but they are increasingly necessary in practice. BREEAM (Mat 01) awards credits for products with EPDs.

EPDs are not legally required for timber products in most jurisdictions, but they are increasingly necessary in practice. BREEAM (Mat 01) awards credits for products with EPDs. LEED (MR credit) recognises EPDs for material transparency. DGNB requires EPDs for lifecycle assessment. Public procurement in several countries (Netherlands, France, Nordics) requires or incentivises EPD provision. The EU Construction Products Regulation revision (expected 2025–2026) may make environmental declarations mandatory for construction products. Forward-thinking manufacturers already provide EPDs as standard.

Why this matters

This question relates to EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) for Timber: How to Read It, which covers the broader topic in detail. Understanding this specific aspect helps architects, builders, and timber dealers make informed specification decisions.

For full context and additional technical detail, see our comprehensive guide:

→ EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) for Timber: How to Read It

Related questions

• What is an EPD for timber?
• What lifecycle stages does a timber EPD cover?
• How is biogenic carbon reported in timber EPDs?

About this answer

This answer is part of the PuurModulair Knowledge Base — comprehensive timber specification guidance for architects, builders, and dealers across the UK, EU, and Scandinavia.