Steintec enhance product performance through implementation of EPD

Sustainability has become increasingly important in infrastructure development. Recognising the need for specialised materials tailored to UK conditions, Steintec, a manufacturer of high-performance mortars and materials for the construction of modular pavements, embarked on a multifaceted approach to address this challenge. Central to Steintec’s environmental commitment has been the development of unique energy saving processes applied in the design and production of tuffbed 2-pack, a high-performance bedding mortar specifically formulated for use as the laying course in modular pavements built in clay, concrete or stone to BS 7533-101.

As part of their commitment to sustainability, Steintec sought an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for tuffbed 2-pack, to provide stakeholders with credible insights into the product's environmental performance. Additionally, the EPD would provide reliable evidence for Steintec’s reduced energy production processes further differentiating tuffbed 2-pack from other bedding mortars.

Recognising the need for independent verification of performance, Steintec partnered with BRE based on their international recognition for expertise in EPD and life cycle assessment (LCA). Steintec were particularly interested in demonstrating the differences between their tuffbed 2-pack and other bedding mortars. Phil Crichton of Steintec explains, “An EPD provides Steintec with the means to illustrate the various capabilities of tuffbed 2-pack commercial bedding mortar. A verified EPD establishes further differentiation in the form of a CO2e value for tuffbed 2-pack as measurably lower than the CO2e value of generic bedding strength cementitious mortars over the A1-A3 cradle to gate (manufacturing) stage”.

The rigorous process to assess the life cycle impacts of tuffbed 2-pack, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal, provides customers, regulators, and other stakeholders with transparent and credible information about the product's environmental performance. In addition to BRE’s industry recognition, Steintec were particularly impressed with collaborative approach that BRE were able to provide throughout the EPD journey. Phil Crichton of Steintec continues, “BRE support the EPD data collection process with an excellent level of knowledge and guidance. This has been provided professionally with a clarity of explanation crucial to the completion of the exercise”.

Initial data gathered to populate the EPD collection form, immediately and unexpectedly highlighted a disproportionate reliance on road transport for material sourcing processing/manufacture and distribution. It transpired the road transport component was so disproportionate it almost cancelled out the significant energy savings that Steintec had worked so hard to develop for the production of tuffbed 2-pack. A review of raw material sourcing and transport rationalisation became an immediate priority. As a result, adjustments were made, leading to a significant reduction in road miles, with benefits quickly realised.

Consequently, the verified EPD reflects the unique low energy characteristics for Steintec’s tuffbed 2-pack bedding mortar product.

Steintec’s EPD journey involved data collection, analysis, and verification, guided by the EN 15804 European EPD standard. Through this collaborative effort, Steintec gained valuable insights and identified opportunities for manufacture improvement and optimisation.

By obtaining an EPD for tuffbed 2-pack, Steintec has been able to demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility while empowering stakeholders with credible, standardised information. The product is now listed on GreenBookLive, BRE’s unique listing platform of environmental products and services, and ECO Platform.