Copper is an efficient material when construction planners are looking for a sustainable material. Important changes in European environmental certification are now recognized according to German copper institute the contribution that copper can make to the circular economy. The changes to the published in October 2019 Standard EN 15804 contain core rules for product categories (PCR) for type III environmental declarations for every construction product and construction work.
The standard describes which phases in the product life cycle are taken into account in the EPD (Environmental Product Declaration). It is now mandatory to consider the end of product life and to report the additional benefits and burdens that result from reusing or recycling end of life products.
Plastic recycling from and for industry and other uses
This modification of the standard will help reduce the environmental impact of copper and others metals to anchor them more firmly in the market at the end of their service life and to position them as sustainable solutions for construction applications.
Recycling champion copper unbeatable
The standard uses a modular approach for the phases in the product life cycle.
- Production (module A)
- in use (module B)
- End-of-life phase (module C)
- End-of-life recycling (module D)
In the new standard, the compulsory module D gives an overview of the recycling performance and the benefits for the entire product life cycle. The module is therefore a key element in supporting an environmentally friendly circular economy in the construction sector.
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Copper has an infinite lifespan. This renewable metal can be recycled over and over again without losing its properties. Copper recycling saves considerable abiotic resources and enormous amounts of energy. Copper requires 85% less energy than primary production. With the current focus on resource efficiency and recycling, recycling aspects must be taken into account in the environmental product declaration (EPD).
Copper remains the material of choice
The revised standard contains many improvements and significant changes for working with EPDs as an important next step. This promotes the use of recyclable building materials made of metals such as tin, zinc, brass, iron, bronze, aluminum, silver or alloys. The effects and benefits of recycling and reclaiming or reusing building materials are taken into account. Copper remains as a sustainable and exemplary recyclable metal for many areas of application material the first choice.