In today’s construction landscape, sustainability is not just a trend—it’s a necessity. Demonstrating this commitment, Zeman Çelik, one of Turkey’s leading steel structure manufacturers, has been awarded an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for its “Steel Structures” product. This internationally recognized declaration was achieved through a rigorous Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) carried out by ERKE Sustainability Consultancy.
What is an EPD and Why Does it Matter?
An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a verified, transparent report that communicates a product’s environmental impact throughout its entire life cycle. Governed by ISO 14025 and EN 15804+A2 standards, EPDs help businesses and consumers make informed, eco-conscious decisions based on measurable data.
Zeman Çelik’s EPD, valid until 2030, was published under the International EPD System and highlights the company’s transparent approach to environmental performance.
ERKE’s Role in the LCA Process
As the official LCA practitioner, ERKE conducted the full life cycle analysis using 2024 production data from Zeman Çelik’s facility in Hendek, Sakarya. The scope covered every stage from raw material acquisition (A1), production and packaging (A2-A3), transportation and assembly (A4-A5), to end-of-life scenarios such as deconstruction and recycling (C1-C4), and potential environmental credits (Module D).
The analysis was performed using OpenLCA software and the Ecoinvent 3.10 database. The declared unit was 1 ton of steel structures, with a projected service life of 50 years. Notably, the product includes 66.4% post-consumer recycled steel and is designed to be 90% recyclable at the end of its life—an impressive circularity rate within the sector.
Steel Structures: Durable and Sustainable
Steel structures are known not only for their strength and adaptability but also for their sustainability. They generate less construction waste, allow for faster installation, and are highly recyclable—making them ideal for modern, green construction projects. Zeman’s steel structures are CE-marked and produced in compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 45001, EN 1090-2, and EN 3834-2 standards, ensuring both quality and environmental responsibility.
Looking Ahead
For Zeman Çelik, earning an EPD is more than just a certification—it’s a commitment to building a better, greener future. For ERKE, leading the LCA process reflects our mission to support organizations that strive to reduce their environmental footprint and embrace sustainability.
This successful collaboration sets a benchmark for transparency and environmental accountability in Turkey’s steel and construction industries. As the demand for low-impact building materials continues to rise, we’re proud to support companies like Zeman Çelik on their sustainability journey.
