CORE PCR for Flood control waterworks

What motivated the Green Energy & Environmental Research Laboratories at ITRI to develop a CORE PCR specifically focused on Flood control waterworks?

To achieve the 2050 net-zero emission target, the Water Resources Agency (WRA), Ministry of Economic Affairs Republic of China (Taiwan), has established a “Lifecycle Carbon Management for Hydraulic Engineering” systematic reduction mechanism obtaining the PAS 2080:2023 Carbon Management in Buildings and Infrastructure international certification standard. In its effort to meet a progressive annual emission reduction target of 20% by 2022, 30% by 2023, 40% by 2030, and 50% by 2050 decided to collaborate with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) a world-leading applied technology research institute and expert in carbon-reduction strategies. The collaboration aims to address the challenges of decarbonization while supporting the planning of decarbonization pathways for infrastructure projects.

The decision to develop a Core PCR in this product category arose from WRA recognizing both the industry’s need for pressing decarbonization in infrastructure-related projects and the absence of a unified PCR for water conservancy projects. To address this gap, WRA decided to take the initiative and lead by developing the first AEC industry-oriented PCR, published by an international programme operator EPDItaly.

This effort ensures carbon accountability according to international regulations. WRA’s initiative makes it the first governmental agency in Republic of China (Taiwan) to undertake the task of developing the first AEC-industry targeted PCR with a global standardize scope and methodology, enabling consistent and comparable environmental impact emission results for infrastructure-related projects. Additionally, this became the first Core PCR in international EPD Libraries dedicated to Flood control waterworks and aligned with the EN15804.

What key benefits do you foresee from the implementation and adoption of this PCR, both for industry stakeholders and for environmental impact management?

With the implementation of this Core PCR, WRA and ITRI take a firm step towards global sustainability and life cycle transparency in water conservancy engineering.

Acknowledging the case-by-case carbon reduction practices in infrastructure projects this PCR intends to act as a comprehensive tool for the AEC Industry (architecture, engineering and construction), LCA practitioners and governmental bodies who aim to align with carbon accountability.

The involvement of both WRA and ITRI in the development process ensures compliance with public policies and coherence with the latest sustainability needs. WRA and ITRI regard this PCR as a foundational document that can be adopted and used for a wide range of flood control waterworks projects; usability of this PCR stands as a priority goal.

How do you envision the future development and application of this PCR in Taiwan(R.O.C.)  and internationally? Are there plans to expand its scope or promote it in global markets?

As the first Core PCR developed for infrastructure products Republic of China (Taiwan), this initiative is expected to enhance transparency and reflect commitment to the AEC industry transition toward sustainability in line with the 2050 carbon neutrality goal.

Given the substantial environmental footprint of the AEC industry both in Republic of China (Taiwan) and worldwide. WRA has, through the development of this PCR, become the first governmental body to take concrete action to address this challenge.

It represents a solid effort toward advancing sustainable infrastructure both regionally and globally and sets the foundation for future developments; whether as complementary PCRs tailored to specific industry scenarios or as Core PCRs that will continue to strengthen accountability and drive progress in sustainable infrastructure.

Why did you choose EPDItaly as a partner in this initiative and how has the collaboration with ICMQ contributed to the success and credibility of the PCR development process?

EPDItaly and ICMQ have an extensive track record in developing construction-related PCRs and EPDs across both Europe and Asia for the AEC industry.

Our collaboration with a specialized programme operator for construction and infrastructure products, such as EPDItaly and ICMQ, brings valuable expertise—ensuring alignment with international standards for construction products (EN15804) and providing clear guidance on the objectives and anticipated future applications of the PCR.

The Water Resources Agency (WRA), Ministry of Economic Affairs Republic of China (Taiwan) and ITRI aim to establish a long-term mutually beneficial partnership with ICMQ to strengthen regional expertise in PCR and EPD development.