If you’re involved in sustainability-led construction, procurement, or life cycle assessment (LCA), understanding the transition to +A2 EPDs is critical. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are becoming the common language for assessing the environmental performance of building products. They provide transparent, standardised data to support carbon reduction strategies, procurement decisions, and regulatory submissions.
With the introduction of EN 15804+A2:2019, however, the rules have changed. These newer, more detailed EPDs offer greater transparency and alignment with European climate policy — but they also bring new technical requirements and potential pitfalls for designers, contractors, and sustainability consultants.
In this article, we’ll explain what a +A2 EPD is, how it differs from the older +A1 format, and what construction professionals need to know to stay compliant, credible, and competitive in today’s low-carbon marketplace.
What is a +A2 EPD?
A +A2 EPD is an Environmental Product Declaration that complies with EN 15804+A2:2019, the updated European standard for life cycle-based environmental impact reporting. Critically, many of these newer EPDs only cover Modules A1 and A2 of the life cycle (raw material supply and transport to manufacturer), rather than the full product stage (A1–A3).
This means: The EPD is partially scoped. It complies with EN 15804+A2, butit may not provide a complete picture for whole life carbon assessments
Why EN 15804+A2 Matters in Construction?
The A2 amendment was introduced to align with the European Commission’s Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) method, support circular economy metrics, and improve digital transparency.
Key improvements include:
- 13 core impact categories (vs. 7 under A1)
- Separate tracking of fossil, biogenic, and land use change carbon emissions
- Mandatory reporting of Modules C1–C4 (end-of-life) and Module D (recovery/reuse)
- Structured data formats compatible with ILCD (XML) systems
For professionals working on BREEAM, London Plan Circular Economy Statements, or Whole Life Carbon Optioneering, the A2 version represents the current technical baseline.
+A2 vs +A1: What’s the Difference?
- Feature EN 15804+A1 EN 15804+A2
- Global Warming Potential (GWP) Single value Four: fossil, biogenic, land use, total
- Impact Categories 7 core 13 core + 6 optional
- End-of-Life Data (C Modules) Optional Mandatory
- Module D (Recovery Benefits) Optional Mandatory
- Circularity Metrics Minimal Comprehensive
- Digital Format PDF or bespoke XML-ready (ILCD format)
- Comparability Easier Requires caution and expertise
How It Affects LCA, WLC and BREEAM Submissions
If your EPD data is outdated or incomplete, you may:
- Fail to meet minimum evidence thresholds
- Introduce inaccuracies into carbon optioneering models
- Risk rejection of your Circular Economy Statement by the GLA
- Misrepresent product performance in Whole Life Costing (WLC) studies
Most carbon modelling tools, One Click LCA, eTool, etc., now require clarity on whether an EPD follows A1 or A2. The distinction affects credit calculations, comparability, and transparency.
Common Pitfalls with +A2 EPDs
- Mistaking partial EPDs (A1–A2) for complete product-stage data
- Comparing +A2 EPDs directly with +A1 results
- Misinterpreting GWP-biogenic or Module D data
- Submitting partial declarations for BREEAM Mat 01 or LCA evidence
- Failing to validate data sources and assumptions
Our Expertise is Bridging A1 and A2 for Accurate Carbon Modelling
At ADW Developments, we provide:
- Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) using both A1 and A2-compliant EPDs
- Whole Life Carbon Assessments aligned with RICS and GLA guidance
- Circular Economy Statements grounded in correct material scope
- Data reconciliation across legacy and modern EPD formats
- Credible evidence for BREEAM, planning, and Net Zero reporting
We understand the technical nuances of both legacy and modern EPDs and help clients confidently model carbon, cost, and material flow with traceability and precision.
After establishing all the above, let’s look at some FAQs.
What does a +A2 EPD include?
It follows EN 15804+A2:2019 and often includes only A1–A2 modules. A1 covers raw material extraction, and A2 covers transport to the factory.
Can I use a +A2 EPD for BREEAM or LCA?
Yes, but check whether it includes A3, C1–C4, and D modules. Some BREEAM tools require full product stage data.
How do I know if an EPD is A1 or A2?
Look for the standard declaration: “in accordance with EN 15804+A2:2019” or “EN 15804+A1:2013”. Also, check which modules are reported.
Can A1 and A2 EPDs be compared directly?
No. The impact categories, methods, and data models differ. Comparing them without adjustment can lead to invalid results.
What is Module D?
Module D estimates the potential benefits from reuse, recycling, or recovery beyond the building’s life cycle. It is mandatory in +A2 EPDs.
We help you deliver studies under both A1 and A2 standards. Whether you’re working with legacy EPDs or navigating the complexities of +A2, we interpret the data correctly, reconcile missing modules, and build models that satisfy regulatory and client expectations. Our approach ensures your documentation is accurate, auditable, and fully aligned with EN 15804.
We’ve supported clients across commercial, industrial, and public sector developments with carbon data, procurement strategy, and regulatory submission support.
👉 Book your consultation today and let us help you stay ahead of evolving standards, reduce carbon risk, and strengthen your planning and sustainability outcomes.
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