The challenge: keeping carbon data current and credible
APL Window Solutions knows its customers and industry partners need carbon data they can trust. They recognised that changes in their supply chain meant the environmental footprint of its window and door systems might have shifted. To keep its Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) reliable, APL asked us to update the EPD we developed with them in 2022.
A refreshed EPD grounded in new data
We collected the latest data, updated the life cycle assessment (LCA) and worked with the EPD verifier to confirm the results, before coordinating with EPD Australasia to publish the updated declaration - on time and on budget.
How this supports APL Window Solutions to succeed sustainably
The EPD is helping APL use carbon data more strategically across its business. By investing in up-to-date EPDs, APL demonstrates a strong commitment to transparency and supports its clients with reliable, specific information they can trust.
Current EPDs help APL:
- Focus efforts where it matters most. EPDs highlight the biggest opportunities to reduce emissions and therefore impact, helping APL save resources and improve efficiency – including making more informed choices on where to source materials.
- Communicate clearly and confidently with architects, builders, customers and homeowners. Up-to-date EPDs mean APL can respond quickly to carbon data requests, project requirements and green building standards.
- Support customers to win work. Products backed by credible EPDs help architects and specifiers earn points under green building rating tools and in tenders.
- Strengthen relationships. APL’s customers appreciate having reliable, New Zealand-specific data rather than relying on overseas averages or assumptions.
Working together
Bex McQueen, Sustainability Lead at APL’s parent company Profile Group appreciates the partnership.
“We really value working with the thinkstep-anz team. They are supportive, approachable and always really responsive. Our collaboration feels like a genuine partnership, which makes the whole experience smooth and constructive.”
For thinkstep-anz Projects and Team Lead LCA Chanjief Chandrakumar, APL is an inspiring client:
“APL genuinely cares about their environmental footprint and comes to the table ready for open, two-way conversations. Unlike many manufacturers, APL has real influence over both their upstream processes and downstream supply chain. That means they can act on insights fast, and they’re already collaborating with hundreds of suppliers to understand material flows and minimise losses.”
About APL
APL Window Solutions is New Zealand’s largest window and door manufacturer, supplying aluminium joinery systems to the building sector through its nationwide network of manufacturers.
APL stands out among New Zealand manufacturers for running its entire operation on renewable energy. Through its parent company, Profile Group, it acquires renewable energy certificates from Kawatiri Energy. This allows APL to report that the electricity powering its manufacturing comes from the Lake Rochfort Hydro Scheme. Read more about APL’s carbon neutral electricity initiative here.