Module D

🔍 What Is “Module D” in Scope 3?

In the context of carbon footprint and life cycle assessment (LCA), Module D refers to a specific part of the EN 15804 standard, which is widely used in the construction sector to assess environmental impacts of building products.

Module D accounts for benefits and loads beyond the system boundary, such as:

• Recycling or reuse of materials after the product’s life

• Energy recovery from waste

• Avoided emissions due to secondary material use

It’s not part of the core Scope 3 categories defined by the GHG Protocol, but it’s often used in building product declarations (EPDs) and Level(s) assessments to reflect circular economy benefits.

🧱 Module D in Construction & Scope 3

When companies report Scope 3 emissions for construction products or buildings, Module D helps capture:

• Emissions avoided by recycling steel, concrete, glass, etc.

• End-of-life scenarios that reduce future emissions

• Offsets from substituting virgin materials with recycled ones

This is especially relevant for:

• Manufacturers of building materials

• Real estate developers

• Architects and engineers using Level(s) or EPDs

🧮 Software Tools

Solutions like UL Solutions’ Scope 3 Module offer:

• Preconfigured templates for all 15 Scope 3 categories

• Integration of Module D for construction-related emissions

• Exportable reports for CSRD, GHG Protocol, and EU Taxonomy compliance