Flooring systems with proven sustainability

EPDs provide a reliable and transparent overview of the environmental performance of synthetic resin-bound flooring systems

Arturo, a brand of Uzin Utz Netherlands, has translated the life cycle assessments of its synthetic resin flooring systems into specific environmental product—
declarations (Environmental Product Declarations). Based on these EPDs, architects, (developing) contractors, construction management firms, and fabricators can make even more sustainable project choices and support their decisions with precise and reliable data when presenting them to their clients.

“An EPD is a standardized and transparent environmental product declaration that fully complies with international standards,” explains Nadine Schuurmans, sustainability specialist at Uzin Utz Netherlands. “The document is based on a life cycle assessment (LCA) that analyzes a product’s environmental impacts throughout its entire life cycle—from raw material extraction to production, transportation, use, and waste disposal.” In recent years, Arturo has conducted LCAs for all of its products. Initially, these were for internal use, according to Schuurmans. “By gaining insight into the environmental impact of our products, we were able to optimize them in a targeted manner and continuously reduce our environmental impact—for example, by adjusting the formulations.” By creating EPDs for our thirty most important products, we are now taking the next step by making all product data available to the market as well. This positions us for a market in which transparency, measurable environmental performance, and data-driven sustainability choices are becoming increasingly important.”

Relevant product information

The EPDs clearly present the results of the life cycle assessments for all thirty individual products. In addition, architects, (developing) contractors, construction management firms, and fabricators will find specific information here regarding the product’s composition, application, and technical characteristics, as well as system boundaries, environmental indicators, life cycle stages, and the datasets, scenarios, and calculation methods used. “The document is independent and has been verified by an accredited LCA/EPD verifier in accordance with applicable standards (such as EN 15804), thereby ensuring the reliability, transparency, and comparability of the information,” said Schuurmans. 

“The National Environmental Database (NMD) calculation method was used in preparing this report. The environmental data was then published by the MRPI. This takes us a significant step beyond the generic EPDs that many manufacturers still rely on, enabling architects, (developing) contractors, construction management firms, and fabricators to make informed product choices.”

Difference Between Generic and Specific EPDs

“Generic EPDs are based on average data from multiple products and manufacturers within a specific category (such as synthetic resin-bound poured floors). These EPDs are usually prepared by the industry association FEICA and used when no specific EPD is available,” explains Lotte ter Woerds, Arturo Marketing Specialist at Uzin Utz Netherlands. 

“This is based on a generic formulation, processing, and service life, which may vary in practice. It is important for designers and consultants to be aware of this.” Instead, Arturo opts for specific EPDs that describe the environmental performance of a single, specific product from a single manufacturer. “The specific EPDs are based on exact life-cycle data and therefore provide a very accurate and reliable picture. This makes them the best foundation for sustainable, evidence-based material choices.” In line with market trends, the specific EPDs also offer added value for Arturo itself. “Thanks to the data, we gain even better insight into the individual raw materials, enabling us to achieve an even better environmental impact when developing new products or replacing existing ones.”

A functional and aesthetic foundation

The floor forms the functional foundation of every space, but it also sets the tone and atmosphere of the space where you live, work, or spend your time. That is precisely where Arturo has been adding value for more than 65 years. With a wide range of synthetic resin- and cement-based flooring systems featuring functional and decorative finishes, Arturo creates floors that perfectly adapt to a space’s function and the wishes and needs of its users. Because the entire process for the EPDs is carried out in-house, Arturo can provide excellent (project) support to (end) customers as well as the specifying sector.