The European Union’s Construction Products Regulation (CPR) has undergone a significant update that impacts manufacturers of construction materials. First introduced in 2011 to harmonize product standards and facilitate the free circulation of construction products within the EU, the CPR has evolved to meet modern environmental challenges. In December 2024, the updated regulation was published in the EU Official Journal and entered into force on January 7, 2025. This revised CPR now includes enhanced sustainability and transparency measures, which are crucial for manufacturers looking to stay competitive in the EU market.

What is the Construction Products Regulation (CPR)?

The Construction Products Regulation (CPR) establishes standardized safety, performance, and environmental requirements for construction products sold in the EU. The goal of the CPR is to ensure that construction products meet minimum standards for safety and performance while addressing the growing demand for sustainability in the construction industry. The 2024 update strengthens these objectives by integrating new environmental reporting requirements, advancing digitalization with Digital Product Passports (DPP), and expanding the scope of the CE marking to include both performance and environmental impact.

Key Changes in the Updated CPR

1. Digital Product Passports (DPP): Manufacturers must now provide detailed environmental data and product specifications via a Digital Product Passport. This ensures better compliance and traceability throughout the EU market.
2. Enhanced CE Marking: CE marking now reflects both technical performance and environmental impact, making it a more comprehensive indicator of a product’s compliance with EU regulations.
3. Mandatory Environmental Reporting: Manufacturers are required to disclose data on climate-related indicators, including CO₂ emissions and energy usage, for priority product categories such as concrete, steel, and insulation materials.

CPR and Other EU Sustainability Regulations

The updated CPR aligns closely with other EU sustainability frameworks, such as the Eco-Design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). This alignment ensures that CPR-compliant products contribute directly to EU-wide energy efficiency and circular economy targets, making the construction industry more sustainable and data-driven.

Why is CPR Important for Non-EU Manufacturers?

For manufacturers based outside the EU, aligning with CPR standards is essential to accessing and maintaining a presence in the EU market. Compliance with the updated CPR simplifies cross-border sales, reduces redundant testing and certifications, and enhances transparency. By adhering to the harmonized CPR guidelines, non-EU manufacturers can streamline their operations and ensure their products meet the EU's stringent requirements.

Core Compliance Requirements

Manufacturers must meet several key requirements to remain compliant with the updated CPR:

• Standardized Product Performance: Construction products must meet specific performance standards to ensure safety, durability, and reliability. Products with high environmental impacts, such as concrete, steel, and insulation, are prioritized for stricter regulation.
  
• Environmental Reporting and DPP: The mandatory Digital Product Passports (DPP) will serve as a central repository for all technical specifications and environmental data. This digital tool will enhance transparency, making it easier for stakeholders to access compliance information and integrate it into Building Information Modeling (BIM) systems.‍
• Expanded Declaration of Performance (DoP): The DoP must now include environmental data alongside traditional technical performance claims. This includes essential characteristics such as Global Warming Potential (GWP) and energy usage.

The Role of Desapex in CPR Compliance

As manufacturers navigate the complexities of the updated CPR, Desapex is here to provide crucial support in sustainability reporting:

1. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs): Desapex offers an end-to-end solution for manufacturers looking to create EPDs that comply with EN 15804 standards. Through Desapex LCA’s EPD Generator tool services, manufacturers can easily perform life-cycle assessments (LCAs) and create EPDs for any product category. This is vital for products that need to meet the updated CPR’s environmental reporting requirements.
2. Product Specification Visibility: Specifiers in the construction industry are increasingly relying on EPDs to make informed decisions about low-carbon materials. Desapex can consolidate their product EPDs and other sustainability data in one accessible location. This ensures that the products are easily found, reviewed, and selected by architects, engineers, and construction professionals.

The Future of CPR Compliance

By 2030, it is anticipated that reporting will become more detailed, incorporating full lifecycle environmental data adhering to CPR. Manufacturers must stay informed about the evolving standards for concrete, steel, insulation, and other materials, and ensure their products are ready for these changes.

By adopting early preparation strategies such as digital readiness, standardized data reporting, and supplier collaboration, manufacturers can ensure long-term compliance with CPR and maintain a strong position in the competitive EU market.

End Note

The updated Construction Products Regulation is a significant step toward a more sustainable and transparent construction industry. By understanding the new requirements and leveraging tools like those offered by Desapex, manufacturers can streamline their compliance processes, reduce administrative burdens, and gain visibility in the EU market. With the right support and preparation, your products can meet the evolving demands of the construction industry and contribute to the EU's ambitious sustainability goals.