Understanding EPDs: How Propane Can Help Asphalt Producers Meet Targets

As sustainability becomes increasingly important across a multitude of industries, Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are gaining traction as a key tool in assessing and communicating the environmental impact of products and services. For asphalt producers, EPDs are not just a passing trend—they’re becoming a significant part of business strategy, affecting project bids, stakeholder relationships, and even compliance with environmental regulations. 

In this blog, we’ll dive into what EPDs are, why they matter to asphalt producers, and how switching from oil to propane for asphalt production can help achieve those critical EPD targets. 

What is an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)? 

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a standardized document that provides detailed, quantifiable data about the environmental impact of a product throughout its lifecycle. This data is typically compiled using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies and covers various environmental factors, such as: 

• Greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) 

• Energy use 

• Resource depletion 

• Water consumption 

• Air and water pollution 

In short, an EPD offers a transparent view of a product’s environmental footprint, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. It serves as an important communication tool for manufacturers, contractors, and other stakeholders looking to minimize the environmental impact of construction projects. 

Why Should Asphalt Producers Care About EPDs? 

1. Regulatory Compliance and Green Building Standards 
   Many governments and institutions now require EPDs for certain projects to meet sustainability goals and regulations, especially in construction. Green building standards like LEED and Greenroads often mandate or reward the use of products with low environmental impacts, as documented by EPDs. For instance, the Federal Highway Administration now emphasizes sustainable asphalt paving practices in projects using federal funds. 

2. Competitive Advantage 
   Asphalt producers with favorable EPDs are more likely to win contracts, especially for public infrastructure projects where sustainability is a top concern. In the U.S. Green Building Council’s 2022 report, 80% of developers cited EPDs as a critical factor in supplier selection (“Annual Green Building Market Report”). Demonstrating a commitment to reducing emissions and energy use can enhance a company’s reputation and position it as a leader in green building practices. 

3. Cost Savings 
   Reducing the environmental impact of asphalt production can lead to operational efficiencies and cost savings. By optimizing energy use, decreasing emissions, and minimizing waste, producers can reduce costs while also boosting their environmental credentials. The National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) has reported that adopting energy-efficient technologies, such as cleaner fuels, can reduce energy costs by as much as 15% (“Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Practices in Asphalt Production”). 

4. Transparency and Trust 
   EPDs promote transparency by providing hard data about a product’s environmental performance. This helps build trust with clients and stakeholders, who are increasingly looking for ways to quantify and reduce the carbon footprint of their projects. A study from Deloitte indicates that 67% of consumers value transparency in environmental claims, a trend that extends to business clients (“Sustainability and Consumer Trust: The Power of Transparency”). 

Switching From Oil to Propane for Asphalt Production: A Path to Better EPDs 

One of the most effective ways asphalt producers can reduce their environmental impact and improve their EPDs is by switching from oil to propane for drying aggregates and heating asphalt. Here’s why: 

1. Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions 
   Propane burns cleaner than oil, resulting in 19% less CO2 emissions per million BTU during the asphalt production process. By making the switch, asphalt producers can significantly reduce their overall greenhouse gas emissions, which directly contributes to a better EPD score. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, propane combustion produces only about 139 pounds of CO2 per million BTUs compared to 161 pounds for heating oil (“Propane as a Clean Alternative Fuel”). 

2. Improved Efficiency 
   Propane systems are often more efficient than oil-based systems. Propane burners can provide more precise temperature control, reducing energy consumption and waste, further improving the environmental metrics captured in an EPD. The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) highlights that propane burners can achieve thermal efficiencies of up to 98%, while oil burners tend to lag behind in efficiency, making propane a smarter choice for energy-conscious producers (propane.com) 

3. Fewer Pollutants 
   Oil-fired systems can release a variety of pollutants, including sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, all of which can negatively impact air quality. Propane, on the other hand, produces virtually no SOx and significantly lower NOx levels. This translates to a cleaner production process and better air quality, which is reflected positively in an EPD. A study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)* found that propane emits up to 40% less NOx than oil, which is a major contributor to smog and acid rain (“The Benefits of Low-NOx Fuels for Industry,” epa.gov). 

4. Cleaner Handling and Storage 
   Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel, meaning there is less need for maintenance and less risk of spills or contamination compared to oil. This reduces both direct and indirect environmental impacts, another factor that can improve an EPD. Additionally, propane’s storage requires less environmental monitoring, which can save producers money on compliance and safety measures. 

How to Get Started with Propane 

Transitioning to propane is relatively straightforward, and many asphalt producers have already made the switch due to the clear environmental and financial benefits. To get started: 

• Assess Your Current Operations: Conduct a detailed audit of your energy use and emissions. This will help identify areas where propane can make the biggest impact. 

• Partner with a Propane Supplier: Choose a propane supplier with experience in industrial applications, particularly in asphalt production. DCC Propane offers a turnkey solution tailored to your specific needs. We’ll take care of everything, from converting or replacing current burners, to propane storage and delivery, to safety training and permits.

• Develop Your EPD Strategy: Once you’ve transitioned to propane, work with an environmental consultant or use LCA tools to update your EPDs. You’ll be able to showcase the improved environmental performance of your asphalt production. 

Propane for a Cleaner Future 

For asphalt producers, focusing on sustainability and reducing environmental impact isn’t just a trend—it’s a business imperative. EPDs are becoming an essential part of doing business, and producers that take proactive steps to improve their environmental metrics will have a competitive edge. 

Switching from oil to propane is one of the most impactful changes producers can make to meet EPD targets. Propane not only reduces emissions and pollutants but also improves operational efficiency, positioning companies for success in an increasingly eco-conscious marketplace. 

Contact DCC Propane to talk to an energy expert about making the switch today!