Product carbon footprint helps Lasiliiri provide reliable information on the environmental performance of its products

Lasiliiri wanted to calculate the partial carbon footprints of three of its glass products: insulating glass 2K, tempered glass, and laminated glass, and communicate the results openly to its stakeholders. They chose Etteplan to conduct the calculations, as Etteplan had previously calculated the partial carbon footprints of these products at a screening level. The screening-level carbon footprint assessment follows the ISO 14067 standard as applicable, and the reporting is produced at a lighter level than a fully standard-compliant assessment. The screening-level assessment is not intended to proceed to critical review, so it is well-suited for internal R&D projects, supporting procurement decisions (e.g., alternative materials or components), or comparing products or technologies during pilot or design phases.

Lasiliiri utilized the results of the previous screening-level carbon footprint calculations for internal development. Now the calculation was updated to align with the ISO 14067 standard for partial product carbon footprint, as changes had been implemented in the production process based on the previous calculation and action proposals.

The soon-to-be mandatory low-carbon assessment of buildings was a major motivator for Lasiliiri to calculate the carbon footprint of its products. "Carbon footprint data is becoming mandatory in the construction industry, and we want to be among the first in our field to have this information available," says Lasiliiri's Chief Administrative Officer, Anu Talja.

The partial carbon footprint assessment was directed to critical review after its completion. Critical review ensures that the assessment has been conducted in accordance with the guiding standards and that the methods used are justified relative to the assessment's objectives. Critical review allows Lasiliiri to communicate the results freely to its stakeholders. Verification of results is especially important in public marketing claims.

"With the completed carbon footprint calculations and the related critical review, our customers receive transparent information about the carbon footprint of our products, enabling them to make informed choices. We now also have the opportunity to easily proceed to EPD calculations if needed," Anu states.

Lasiliiri had a significant advantage since the products and understanding of their carbon footprint calculations were already familiar to Etteplan. Throughout the project, Lasiliiri's confidence in Etteplan's expertise grew even stronger.

"It was easy to discuss options with Etteplan, and we received a lot of support and advice at various stages of the calculation. We would not have been able to carry this process forward without their help," Anu remarks.