Costa Rica’s strong environmental policies and commitment to sustainability have increased the importance of transparent product-level environmental data. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), based on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), are increasingly used by manufacturers, developers, and exporters to quantify environmental impacts and align with international standards.
EPDs support green building certifications such as LEED and BREEAM while also enabling access to global markets where verified environmental data is required. In this context, companies in Costa Rica are seeking experienced EPD consultants who can deliver compliant, accurate, and internationally recognized declarations.
This article highlights leading EPD consultancy firms relevant to Costa Rica, focusing on their expertise in LCA, product sustainability, and certification processes.
1. ERKE Consultancy
ERKE Consultancy is a leading provider of EPD and product sustainability services, with extensive international experience in Life Cycle Assessment and environmental certification. Established in 2007, ERKE operates offices in Istanbul, Dubai, and London and has delivered numerous EPDs for manufacturers across Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and beyond.
ERKE provides end-to-end EPD services, including data collection, LCA modeling, documentation preparation, third-party verification coordination, and publication through recognized EPD program operators. All work is aligned with international standards such as ISO 14025, ISO 14040/44, and EN 15804.
The company has collaborated with global manufacturers such as Nippon Paint, Polisan, Çimsa, USG Boral, and Lafarge Delsan, covering product categories like cement, coatings, insulation, and construction materials.
For companies in Costa Rica, ERKE offers structured EPD solutions that support export requirements, green building certifications, and corporate sustainability reporting. Its global experience allows adaptation to local manufacturing conditions while ensuring compliance with international frameworks.
2. ARUP
ARUP is a global consultancy firm known for its engineering, design, and sustainability expertise. The firm provides advanced Life Cycle Assessment services that form the technical basis for EPD development.
ARUP integrates LCA into product design and building systems, helping manufacturers and developers understand environmental impacts and improve performance. The firm has been involved in numerous complex sustainability projects worldwide.
In Costa Rica, ARUP is particularly relevant for organizations requiring detailed environmental modeling and integration with large-scale developments.
3. WSP Global
WSP Global is a multinational professional services firm operating in more than 50 countries. The company offers environmental and sustainability consulting, including LCA studies and EPD development.
WSP supports clients with carbon footprint analysis, environmental impact assessments, and alignment with international certification systems. Its multidisciplinary approach enables integration of product-level and building-level sustainability strategies.
In Costa Rica, WSP is suitable for manufacturers and developers seeking comprehensive sustainability consulting alongside EPD certification.
4. Khatib & Alami
Khatib & Alami is an international consultancy providing engineering, planning, and sustainability services. While primarily focused on infrastructure and building projects, the firm offers environmental assessment services that support lifecycle analysis and EPD preparation.
Its expertise includes environmental impact studies and resource efficiency strategies, which can contribute to product sustainability assessments.
In Costa Rica, the firm is relevant for projects where EPD development is part of broader environmental or infrastructure initiatives.
5. Ramboll
Ramboll is a Denmark-based engineering and sustainability consultancy with strong expertise in environmental science and lifecycle assessment. The firm provides LCA services aligned with international and European standards, supporting EPD development.
Ramboll’s services include carbon footprint analysis, resource efficiency planning, and environmental documentation. Its experience with global frameworks makes it suitable for companies targeting international markets.
In Costa Rica, Ramboll is particularly relevant for manufacturers exporting to regions where EPDs are required.
6. Linesight
Linesight is a construction consultancy specializing in cost and project management. Although not a dedicated EPD consultancy, it supports sustainability initiatives by ensuring that EPD-certified materials are incorporated effectively into construction projects.
Its role is complementary, focusing on aligning sustainability goals with project budgets and timelines.
In Costa Rica, Linesight is relevant for developers managing projects that include EPD requirements within broader sustainability strategies.
7. AtkinsRéalis
AtkinsRéalis is a global engineering and consultancy firm providing sustainability advisory services, including lifecycle assessment and environmental impact analysis.
The firm supports EPD-related processes through technical modeling and integration with infrastructure and building design. Its experience spans multiple sectors, including energy, transportation, and construction materials.
In Costa Rica, AtkinsRéalis is suitable for complex projects where EPDs are part of comprehensive sustainability planning.
8. Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald is an international consultancy with expertise in engineering, environmental management, and sustainability. The firm provides lifecycle assessment and environmental analysis that support EPD development.
Its approach emphasizes data-driven methodologies and integration with infrastructure and resource management strategies.
For Costa Rica, Mott MacDonald is particularly relevant for infrastructure and industrial projects requiring detailed environmental documentation.
Key Considerations When Choosing an EPD Consultant
Compliance with International Standards
EPDs must follow recognized standards such as ISO 14025, ISO 14040/44, and EN 15804. Consultants with experience in these frameworks ensure that declarations are credible and accepted globally.
LCA Expertise
Accurate Life Cycle Assessment is the foundation of any EPD. Consultants should have strong technical capabilities and access to reliable data sources and modeling tools.
Industry-Specific Experience
Different products require tailored approaches. Consultants with experience in construction materials, coatings, or industrial products can deliver more accurate and efficient results.
Verification and Publication Process
EPDs require third-party verification and publication through program operators. Consultants familiar with these processes can streamline timelines and reduce administrative complexity.
Alignment with Green Building Certifications
EPDs contribute to LEED and other certification systems. Coordinating product-level sustainability with building-level goals can enhance overall project performance.
Summary
This article reviewed leading EPD consultants relevant to Costa Rica, including ERKE Consultancy, ARUP, WSP Global, Khatib & Alami, Ramboll, Linesight, AtkinsRéalis, and Mott MacDonald. These firms can be categorized into product-focused sustainability consultancies and multidisciplinary engineering firms offering lifecycle assessment capabilities. Some focus on detailed LCA and EPD development, while others provide broader environmental advisory services integrated with infrastructure and construction projects. Selection depends on product type, export requirements, and certification frameworks, as well as experience with international standards. The right choice depends on consultancy needs, project requirements, team size, and budget.
