EPS and EU Construction Policy: Standards and Compliance
Policies such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), and end-of-waste criteria under the Waste Framework Directive are representative of the European Union's commitment to sustainability and efficiency in the building sector. EUMEPS contributes sector expertise to discussions on EPS applications within these regulatory frameworks. Find out about the regulatory context relevant to EPS in construction.
Energy Performance of Buildings Directive and EPS
The EPBD aims to enhance the energy performance of buildings across the European Union, a necessary step towards fulfilling the Green Deal’s ambitious climate goals. EPS is used in building-insulation systems. When correctly specified and installed as part of a complete building system, EPS insulation can contribute to the building’s thermal performance. Actual energy use, greenhouse-gas impacts and indoor conditions depend on the overall building design, installation, climate, operation and energy source.
The flexibility and versatility of EPS allow it to be used in new-build and renovation projects where it meets the technical requirements of the building system. Its lightweight nature, coupled with ease of installation, can be relevant to the design and installation of the thermal envelope.
Navigating the Construction Products Regulation and End-of-Waste Criteria
The Construction Products Regulation (CPR) establishes harmonised rules for the marketing of construction products in the EU. EPS insulation products are subject to the applicable requirements; CE marking applies where required under the relevant harmonised technical specifications.
End-of-waste criteria under the Waste Framework Directive set the conditions under which waste may cease to be waste and be used as a secondary raw material. EUMEPS participates in discussions on recycling technologies and systems for EPS waste. EPS can be technically recycled through established processes, subject to the product design, waste-stream quality and availability of suitable collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure.
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EPS waste can be processed into recovered material for specified applications, subject to applicable requirements and the characteristics of the waste stream. |
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Credit: Austrotherm, EPSolutely |
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Credit: HIRSCH Pozorell, EPSolutely |
Supporting a Compliant European Building Landscape
EUMEPS's advocacy for EPS in the building sector focuses on policy dialogue, technical information and regulatory developments affecting construction applications. As EU requirements evolve, EUMEPS will continue to contribute sector expertise on building insulation, recycling systems and applicable product requirements.