Pickler relies on IDEMAT’s database for environmental data, specifically for 'background processes' (Scope 2 and Scope 3 supplies according to the GHG Protocol). IDEMAT data is compliant with international standards, providing a reliable basis for Pickler’s impact calculations. This database, maintained by the independent Sustainability Impact Metrics Foundation in collaboration with Delft University of Technology, meets the following criteria, ensuring high data quality and reliability:
Independence and Credibility: IDEMAT is developed by a non-profit foundation working alongside Delft University of Technology, ensuring unbiased, scientifically grounded data.
Well-Documented Methodology: IDEMAT’s calculation methods are thoroughly documented, offering transparency into the processes behind each data point.
Up-to-Date Information: IDEMAT tables use the latest available data, such as electricity data that is more recent than other databases like Ecoinvent and Gabi, ensuring users receive current and relevant environmental impact information.
Transparency: All data in IDEMAT is based on peer-reviewed scientific papers and measured data, making it one of the most transparent databases available.
Single Monetized Sustainability Value: IDEMAT offers a monetized value for sustainability, simplifying impact assessment by providing a single, easy-to-interpret figure.
Full LCA Software: IDEMAT’s data has been calculated using full LCA software tools like Simapro and Open LCA, ensuring it meets the highest standards of Life Cycle Assessments.
Standards Compliance through IDEMAT
Because IDEMAT’s data adheres to established standards, Pickler can confidently meet these benchmarks within its platform. The IDEMAT database aligns with essential standards, allowing users to ensure their assessments are in line with global requirements for environmental impact reporting:
ISO 14008 - Monetary Valuation of Environmental Impact
This standard defines a method for calculating the monetary value of environmental impacts, helping companies quantify eco-costs in financial terms. Pickler aligns with ISO 14008 in its eco-costs indicator system, enabling users to understand the environmental costs associated with products and services.
EN 15804 - Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for Construction
A European standard for Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) in construction, providing a uniform way to report and compare the environmental impact of building materials.
LCA Handbook of the ILCD - LCA Guidelines
The LCA Handbook, from the EU’s Joint Research Centre, provides guidelines for conducting Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) within the ILCD (International Reference Life Cycle Data System) framework. This handbook ensures that LCA data is consistent, high-quality, and transparent.
ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 - Life Cycle Assessment Standards
ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 are key standards for LCAs. ISO 14040 outlines the overall principles and framework, while ISO 14044 provides detailed requirements and guidelines for each stage of the assessment.
By using IDEMAT as its default source for background data, Pickler provides users with a robust, transparent, and standards-compliant foundation for environmental impact assessments, making it easy to align with key sustainability reporting standards.