An open International Data Network? – Harmonization of LCA databases for Sustainable Building

The Life Cycle Assessment LCA at building level is a central instrument for the evaluation of sustainable construction. The basic material data are given in environmental product declarations (EPD) which in some states are organized in databases. A basic open source structure for online-use has been developed which allows transferring EPD/LCA data and link databases with the aim to share information of such data from different sources.

Within the Special Session the following aspects will be presented and discussed:

• Need and interest for harmonization activities on LCA data for sustainable building
• Development of an infrastructure for EPD/LCA data exchange for sustainable building
• Experience with existing infrastructure and EPD/LCA data transfer

Supported and organized by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB) and Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development (BBSR)