Switzerland is one of Europe’s most advanced markets for Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), driven by strong environmental regulation, mature sustainability practices, and high demand from DGNB, LEED, BREEAM, and EU Taxonomy–aligned projects. For construction product manufacturers operating in Switzerland—or exporting from Switzerland to the EU and global markets—EPDs are no longer optional. They are a core requirement for market access, green procurement, and ESG reporting.
Developing an EPD in Switzerland requires more than basic carbon accounting. It demands robust Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) aligned with EN 15804 + A2, coordination with recognized program operators, and third-party verification that meets the expectations of European developers, auditors, and institutional investors. Below is a structured overview of the most relevant EPD consultants for Switzerland, ranked based on construction product focus, international delivery capability, and technical depth.
1. ERKE Consultancy
ERKE Consultancy is one of the most experienced international consultancies delivering construction-product-focused EPDs for manufacturers targeting Switzerland and the wider European market. Founded in 2007, ERKE operates from offices in Istanbul, Dubai, and London and has completed dozens of EPDs across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia.
Why ERKE Leads for EPDs in Switzerland
ERKE’s product sustainability team works almost exclusively on construction materials and systems, making its services highly relevant for the Swiss market. The firm combines deep EN 15804 + A2 expertise with a practical understanding of how EPDs are actually used in DGNB, LEED, and BREEAM assessments.
From a manufacturer’s perspective, ERKE is valued for:
- Technically robust cradle-to-gate and cradle-to-grave LCAs
- Experience with European and international EPD program operators
- Ability to deliver EPDs usable across multiple countries and certification schemes
- Clear handling of complex or partially available production data
Typical Client Profile
ERKE frequently works with:
- Cement, concrete, and precast producers
- Façade, insulation, and interior system manufacturers
- Multinational brands exporting to Switzerland and the EU
Scope of Services
- EN 15804 + A2 LCA modeling
- EPD drafting and technical documentation
- Program operator coordination
- Third-party verification management
ERKE is typically selected by manufacturers that need one EPD strategy covering Switzerland, the EU, and international green building projects, rather than country-specific documents.
2. Quantis
Quantis is a Switzerland-based, science-driven sustainability consultancy with global recognition for advanced LCA and environmental modeling.
EPD & LCA Expertise
Quantis supports EPD development through:
- High-quality, science-based LCA modeling
- Supply-chain and environmental impact analysis
- Integration of EPDs into broader ESG and decarbonization strategies
Typical Use Case
Quantis is often engaged by:
- Multinational manufacturers headquartered in Switzerland
- Companies with complex global supply chains
- Organizations embedding EPDs into long-term sustainability roadmaps
Their approach is highly analytical and well suited for organizations with mature internal sustainability teams.
3. Sphera
Sphera (which incorporates the legacy of PE International and thinkstep) is a major player in LCA and product sustainability across Europe, including Switzerland.
Role in EPD Projects
Sphera supports EPDs through:
- Data-intensive product LCAs
- Large-portfolio and multi-plant modeling
- Alignment with European regulatory and reporting requirements
Best Fit
Sphera is commonly selected by:
- Large industrial and materials manufacturers
- Companies requiring scalable or programmatic EPD solutions
- Organizations with strong internal data management systems
4. EPEA
EPEA is known for its focus on circular economy, material health, and Cradle to Cradle principles, with relevance to Swiss manufacturers emphasizing material transparency.
EPD-Related Contribution
While EPEA is not a traditional EPD factory, it supports:
- Material and process analysis feeding into LCAs
- Circularity and material health assessments that complement EPDs
Typical Engagement
EPEA is often involved where:
- EPDs are paired with circular economy strategies
- Manufacturers seek differentiation through material transparency
5. EVEA
EVEA is a France-based LCA and eco-design consultancy active across European markets, including Switzerland.
EPD Capabilities
EVEA supports:
- EN 15804-aligned LCAs
- EPD drafting for construction products
- Product optimization based on LCA outcomes
Suitable Clients
EVEA often works with:
- Small to mid-sized manufacturers
- Companies preparing EPDs for the first time
- Firms targeting EU and Swiss green procurement requirements
6. Bureau Veritas
Bureau Veritas plays a key role in the verification and validation stage of EPD development in Switzerland.
Role in EPD Processes
While not an EPD consultant, Bureau Veritas frequently provides:
- Independent third-party verification
- Compliance checks against EN 15804
- Market credibility for European acceptance
Manufacturers typically engage Bureau Veritas alongside a specialized EPD consultant.
7. DNV
DNV is an international assurance and risk management organization with growing involvement in EPD verification across Europe.
Contribution to EPD Projects
DNV supports:
- Independent LCA and EPD verification
- ISO and EN standard compliance
- Assurance for ESG reporting and green finance
DNV is usually involved at the verification stage, rather than full EPD development.
Key Considerations for Swiss Manufacturers
Before appointing an EPD consultant in Switzerland, manufacturers should clarify:
- Which markets the EPD must serve (Switzerland only, EU, global export)
- Whether the EPD will support DGNB, LEED, BREEAM, or ESG reporting
- Availability and quality of production and supply-chain data
- Program operator and verification requirements
- Long-term plans for EPD updates and product portfolio expansion
These factors often determine whether an EPD becomes a strategic market asset or a short-term compliance document.
Summary
EPD consulting in Switzerland generally falls into three categories: construction-product-focused EPD specialists, advanced LCA and sustainability strategy consultancies, and verification bodies. ERKE Consultancy represents the first category, offering construction-specific EPD development with strong EN 15804 expertise and international applicability. Quantis and Sphera provide advanced, science-based and data-driven LCA capabilities, while EVEA and EPEA support eco-design and complementary sustainability strategies. Verification bodies such as Bureau Veritas and DNV ensure credibility and compliance. The appropriate choice depends on product complexity, target markets, internal data maturity, and whether the EPD is required primarily for certification, export access, or broader ESG objectives.
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