Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are becoming a critical requirement for construction products used in sustainable buildings across Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. With increasing adoption of LEED, Estidama, and other international green building frameworks, manufacturers and developers are under growing pressure to demonstrate verified environmental performance through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)–based declarations. Selecting the right EPD consultant is therefore essential to ensure compliance with international standards, data accuracy, and market acceptance.
This article reviews leading EPD consultants operating in Abu Dhabi, focusing on technical capability, international experience, and relevance to manufacturers and large-scale construction projects.
Understanding the Role of EPD Consultants in Abu Dhabi
EPD consultants support manufacturers in quantifying and transparently reporting the environmental impacts of construction products. This typically involves cradle-to-gate or cradle-to-grave LCAs, alignment with EN 15804 and ISO 14025 standards, and coordination with approved program operators.
In Abu Dhabi, EPDs are increasingly used to support LEED credits, sustainable procurement strategies, and ESG reporting. Consultants must therefore combine technical LCA expertise with a strong understanding of regional construction markets and global certification expectations.
1. ERKE Consultancy
ERKE Consultancy is widely recognized for its specialization in product sustainability, LCA, and EPD certification, with a strong track record supporting manufacturers supplying projects in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Founded in 2007, ERKE operates from offices in Istanbul, Dubai, and London, enabling effective coordination for Abu Dhabi–based and regional manufacturers.
EPD and LCA Capabilities
ERKE has completed dozens of EPD certifications globally, working with multinational manufacturers and regional producers across diverse product categories. Services typically include:
- Full LCA modeling in accordance with ISO 14040/44 and EN 15804
- Product Category Rule (PCR) interpretation and compliance
- Third-party verification coordination and program operator submission
- Alignment with LEED v4/v4.1 material disclosure credits
Sector Experience
ERKE has delivered EPDs for products ranging from cement and concrete to coatings, insulation, tiles, and façade systems. This experience allows the consultancy to address complex datasets, regional supply chains, and export-oriented manufacturers supplying Abu Dhabi’s construction sector.
With an in-house team of LCA specialists and product sustainability experts, ERKE offers structured, technically rigorous EPD development aligned with international market expectations.
2. ARUP
ARUP is a global professional services firm providing engineering, design, and sustainability consulting. Its EPD-related services are typically embedded within broader sustainability and materials advisory scopes.
Key Characteristics
- Strong technical background in environmental engineering
- LCA and materials impact analysis integrated into project-level sustainability
- Experience supporting manufacturers and large developments requiring material transparency
Arup’s approach is often suitable for organizations seeking EPDs as part of a wider sustainability or innovation strategy, particularly where product development and building performance are closely linked.
3. WSP Global
WSP Global delivers environmental and sustainability consulting services worldwide, including LCA studies and EPD development support.
Key Characteristics
- Broad environmental assessment and advisory capabilities
- Experience with infrastructure, industrial, and construction materials
- Ability to integrate EPDs into corporate sustainability and ESG frameworks
WSP’s scale and multidisciplinary structure can be beneficial for manufacturers with complex portfolios or multiple product lines targeting international markets.
4. Ramboll
Ramboll is known for its environmental and sustainability expertise, offering LCA and EPD services as part of its environmental consulting portfolio.
Key Characteristics
- Strong technical grounding in environmental impact assessment
- Experience with European standards and international reporting frameworks
- Focus on data robustness and compliance with EN 15804 methodologies
Ramboll’s services are often aligned with manufacturers prioritizing detailed environmental performance analysis and European market compatibility.
5. Khatib & Alami
Khatib & Alami is a multidisciplinary engineering consultancy with a strong regional presence across the Middle East, including the UAE.
Key Characteristics
- Regional knowledge of construction practices and supply chains
- Sustainability and environmental services supporting product and project needs
- Experience working with local and regional manufacturers
Khatib & Alami’s regional insight can be valuable for manufacturers whose primary markets are within Abu Dhabi and neighboring Gulf countries.
6. Linesight
Linesight is primarily known for cost management and project advisory services, with sustainability consulting forming part of its broader service offering.
Key Characteristics
- Integration of sustainability with commercial and project considerations
- Advisory support for material selection and environmental performance documentation
- Experience supporting large-scale construction programs
Linesight’s involvement in EPD-related work is typically linked to project delivery and procurement strategies rather than standalone product certification.
7. Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald provides engineering, environmental, and sustainability consulting services globally, including LCA and material impact assessments.
Key Characteristics
- Strong engineering-led sustainability approach
- Experience across infrastructure, energy, and building sectors
- Capability to support EPDs within broader environmental reporting frameworks
Mott MacDonald’s services may suit organizations seeking EPDs as part of integrated environmental and engineering consultancy engagements.
How to Select an EPD Consultant in Abu Dhabi
When selecting an EPD consultant, manufacturers and suppliers should consider several key factors:
- LCA depth and in-house expertise
- Experience with similar product categories
- Familiarity with EN 15804 and ISO standards
- Ability to coordinate verification and program operator approval
- Understanding of LEED and regional green building requirements
Consultants with proven international EPD delivery experience and regional market knowledge are typically better positioned to support products used in Abu Dhabi’s sustainable construction sector.
Summary
This article reviewed seven consultancies providing EPD and product sustainability services relevant to Abu Dhabi:
- ERKE Consultancy
- ARUP
- WSP Global
- Ramboll
- Khatib & Alami
- Linesight
- Mott MacDonald
These firms vary in focus, from specialized product-level EPD development to broader environmental and engineering consultancy services. ERKE Consultancy’s dedicated expertise in LCA and EPD certification, combined with extensive experience working with global manufacturers, aligns well with organizations seeking internationally recognized product declarations. Other firms provide EPD support within wider sustainability, engineering, or project advisory scopes. The appropriate choice depends on product type, target markets, certification objectives, and available internal resources.