Verification
Having your products’ PEF scores verified is fundamental to making trustworthy sustainability claims.
PEF Scores Verification
Verification of a PEF study should always be undertaken whenever the study is intended for external communication. The process ensures compliance with PEF standards and the credibility of the shared data. Verification looks at the data inputted into the study, the method of calculation and the data that is being reported.
Prior to launch, the custom-made ESTC PEF software tool was independently reviewed to ensure that PEF studies carried out using the Tool are in line with the PEF Category Rules. This simplifies the verification process required by any study undertaken for commercial use.
Verification is a process conducted by an independent LCA expert to assess whether the PEF study adheres to the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR). This involves reviewing the study’s compliance with prescribed guidelines. Verification ensures the information and data within the PEF study / PEF report, are:
- Reliable: Accurately reflect the data and findings.
- Credible: Based on sound methodologies.
- Correct: Free from errors and in line with PEFCR standards.
Verification of PEF results
PEFCR verification involves ensuring that the specific rules for a product category are correctly applied and that the environmental footprint results are accurate and reliable. Two methods of verification are often used by companies:
Method 1
Full verification in accordance with European Union Recommendation (EU) 2021/2279
This method of verification is comprehensive and normally requires a factory and product audit by a suitably qualified verification company. The procedure includes:
- Gathering all necessary data related to the product’s life cycle, including raw materials, energy use, emissions, and waste.
- Ensuring that the data and methods used comply with the specific PEFCR guidelines for the product category.
- An independent third-party verifier reviews the data, methods, and results to ensure they meet the PEFCR requirements and are scientifically robust.
- Verifying that the study is consistent with the PEF method and that all calculations and assumptions are transparent and reproducible.
- Preparing a detailed verification report that documents the findings and any recommendations for improvement.
- If the verification is successful, the product can be certified as compliant with the PEFCR, which can be used to communicate its environmental performance to stakeholders.
Method 2
Verification in accordance with ISO 14044: Environmental management — Life cycle assessment — Requirements and guidelines
This method of verification described in this international standard is a more simplified (and cost effective) process than the full verification as described above. The process involves:
- Confirming that the LCA’s objectives and scope are clearly defined.
- Verifying the data collection process that has been used, ensuring that all inputs and outputs are accurately recorded and relevant to the product system.
- Checking that the methods used to evaluate potential environmental impacts are appropriate and consistent.
- Ensuring that the results are interpreted correctly, with a focus on identifying significant issues, limitations, and areas for improvement.
- Preparing a verification statement that documents the LCA process, findings, and results. This report should be transparent and accessible to stakeholders.
Conducting Verification of PEF Results
Verification and validation can be performed by either a single verifier or a team, provided they are external and independent.
There is currently no official list of accredited verifiers. Users may select a verifier or verification team, provided they meet the qualifications outlined in the PEF method.
Verifiers are required to submit a self-declaration of their qualifications, demonstrating their expertise and suitability for the task.
To facilitate the process of verification ESTC has selected a number of accredited verifiers that meet these qualifications.
By adhering to these processes, the integrity of the PEF study and its communication can be assured, fostering confidence in the data’s quality and relevance.
Recommended companies for PEF verification of PEF results
COMPANY
NAME
TEL
List of Verified Products
COMING SOON…
FAQs
What is PEF, and how does it work?
The Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) is a method for measuring the environmental impact of products. It provides a comprehensive assessment of various environmental aspects throughout a product’s life cycle. Understanding PEF helps businesses make informed sustainability decisions.
What is PEFCR for synthetic turf systems?
How do I use the PEF software tool
How is the PEF score verified?
Awaiting text …
Can I get assistance after purchasing the software tool?
Awaiting text …
