Recycled Content Declaration (RCD)

A key advantage of the RCD is its transparency. This transparency requirement was an essential part of the declaration from the ontset in order to ensure its credibility. Another advantage is that established international regulations and standards were used as a basis. This means that the wheel did not have to be reinvented, ensuring broad recognition. These specifications define clear calculation rules that provide a solid foundation for making a reliable claim. This includes providing evidence in relation to customer requirements and support with building certification.

The most important core standard of the RCD is ISO 14021, which also includes the definition of the recycling content. This means that all requirements specified therein are also taken into account. ISO 14021 leaves a little room for interpretation, which is why we have included EN4557 accordingly. This contains many useful additional requirements, for example in the area of the circular economy. The requirements of the new ISO 59020 series of standards have also been taken into account.

An environmental product declaration (EPD) provides comprehensive information about all the environmental properties of a construction product throughout its entire life cycle. Until now, this has also included information about recycling, but only to a very limited extent. In addition, there are very few truly verifiable and comprehensible rules in this area. Our goal was to eliminate this deficit, as building product manufacturers are placing increasing demands on the specific recycling content of their products. In order to meet these requirements, we have developed an additional certificate as proof of the recycling content. An RCD can also be created without an EPD. In this case, the relevant background data must be recorded and verified. A significant advantage is that costs are reduced if an RCD is applied for and submitted to the Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V. at the same time as an EPD.

No. An RCD can be created independently of an EPD. However, a combination offers maximum transparency.

RCD WITHOUT simultaneous EPD submission: EUR 2,500, member price EUR 2,000 (-20%). RCD WITH simultaneous EPD submission: EUR 1,250. Multiple RCDs based on the same background data: Costs are based on actual expenditure, approx. EUR 500 to EUR 700 per additional RCD. Terms and conditions: Prices are net, plus statutory VAT. Member discount (-20%) only applies to IBU member companies or companies that have the same rights through group or association membership. Additional RCDs based on the same background data will be charged according to the actual effort involved. For more than ten RCDs, please contact us individually. Valid until further notice; subject to adjustments in the event of changes to methodology/processes.