FDB publishes guidelines on life cycle assessment of precast concrete elements
26.08.2026
Figure: InformationsZentrum Beton (IZB)
The German Precast Concrete Association (FDB) has published the third volume in its Sustainability Knowledge Series, titled “Guidelines for the Life Cycle Assessment of Precast Concrete Elements.”
The first two publications addressed the global warming potential of prestressed floor systems and the global warming potential of industrial building structures.
The new publication aims specifically to support manufacturers and stakeholders in conducting life cycle assessments in the context of precast concrete construction. It seeks to promote a standardized approach and thereby reduce room for interpretation.
Recommendations for precast concrete elements
In addition to the normative requirements, this technical publication contains recommendations and guidelines specific to precast concrete elements. These are advisory in nature and should not be regarded as binding requirements. Among other things, they are intended to be useful when using LCA tools. A basic understanding of the fundamental principles of life cycle assessment is assumed and will not be explained in detail.
The main content is presented in three tables. In addition to general recommendations—including those regarding the declared unit and life cycle modules—the publication contains recommendations for raw materials and construction materials that are directly incorporated into the product, such as cement and reinforcement. The third table provides process-related recommendations, such as those regarding formwork or energy use.
Publication available free of charge
This new publication from the FDB Sustainability Knowledge Series thus offers a concise framework for conducting life cycle assessments of precast concrete elements. The content was primarily compiled by experts from member companies of the FDB Environmental Data Working Group. The publication is available for download free of charge on the FDB website.
The publications in the Sustainability Knowledge Series each address a single topic in the field of sustainable construction with concrete. The individual issues do not build upon one another and do not claim to be exhaustive. Each publication in the Sustainability Knowledge Series is designed as a standalone technical publication.
CONTACT
Fachvereinigung Deutscher Betonfertigteilbau e. V. (FDB)
Mittelstraße 2-10
53175 Bonn/Germany
+49 228 954 56 56
