The European Union has officially implemented the new Construction Products Regulation, aimed at transforming the construction industry and enhancing competitiveness across the EU Single Market. This updated regulation will replace the previous guidelines established in 2011, reflecting the need for modernisation in response to evolving industry challenges.
A central component of this new framework is the introduction of Digital Product Passports. These digital records are designed to provide comprehensive information regarding construction products, encompassing performance metrics, safety data, and sustainability indicators. The forthcoming system will also facilitate precise carbon footprint calculations for entire buildings, thereby enhancing transparency in the construction sector. “The regulation helps builders, architects, engineers, consumers, and public authorities make informed choices based on the performance and sustainability of construction products," stated a representative from the EU Commission.
In addition to improving product transparency, the regulation places a strong emphasis on offsite construction methods, particularly prefabricated and modular construction techniques. These methods have shown significant potential to reduce construction waste, with estimates suggesting a decrease of 10-15% during the manufacturing process. Such innovations also promote circularity, as prefabricated units can be disassembled and repurposed once they reach the end of their lifecycle. Furthermore, these offsite methods are expected to streamline housing development projects, substantially lowering costs and accelerating timelines for construction.
The new regulation not only seeks to reinforce sustainable practices in the construction industry but also aims to position the EU as a leader in innovative and environmentally-conscious building methods. As the EU continues to prioritise enhancing productivity within the construction sector, the focus will be on mitigating environmental impacts while fostering economic growth.
Source: Noah Wire Services