Japan EPD Program by SuMPO

Quantification and Declaration Rules(General Rules and Requirements)

Document ID: JR-07-04
Sustainable Management Promotion Organization
Revision history
Version

Date

Page

Details

04

April 1, 2022-

03

October 1, 2019

17,18

02

April 22, 20193001

November 1, 2017-

Modifications due to changes in the program name.
Modifications due to changes in the program operator.
Re-organization of 1.15 Recording Environmental Impact inEach Life Cycle Stage, addition of guideline that declarations
should be made in Japanese to 2.1 Declaration Overview.
Appendix D: Handling of Series Products, Addition of categories
and clarification of criteria. Appendix E was also revised.
Document created. New document created following the
integration of EcoLeaf and CFP.

JR-07-04
Table of Contents
Section 1 General Rules .................................................................................................................. 4
1. Overview of Quantification and Declaration ............................................................................. 4
2. Requirements........................................................................................................................... 4
3. Verification of Quantification Results and Declaration Drafts ................................................. 4
Section 2 Requirements for Quantification and Declaration ............................................................ 5
1.

General Rules of Quantification Method ................................................................................... 5
1.1.

Environmental information Subject to Quantification ........................................................ 5

1.2.

Quantified Information ....................................................................................................... 5

1.3.

Life Cycle Flow Chart ......................................................................................................... 5

1.4.

Life Cycle Inventory Analysis (LCI) Methodology .............................................................. 5

1.5.

Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) Methodology ......................................................... 6

1.6.

Product System (scope of data collection) ........................................................................ 7

1.6.1.

Examination of product systems ................................................................................ 7

1.6.2.

Cut-off items ............................................................................................................... 7

1.6.3.

Cut-off criteria ............................................................................................................. 7

1.7.

Conducting Life Cycle Inventory Analysis (LCI) ................................................................ 7

1.8.

Data Quality Criteria and Data Collection Methods ........................................................... 8

1.8.1.

Scope of primary data collection ................................................................................ 9

1.8.2.

Criteria for primary data quality .................................................................................. 9

1.8.3.

General Rules of primary data collection method .................................................... 10

1.8.4.

Criteria for secondary data quality............................................................................ 12

1.8.5.

Secondary data collection methods ......................................................................... 12

1.9.

Transport .......................................................................................................................... 13

1.10. General Rules of Allocation ............................................................................................. 13
1.10.1. Criteria for allocation in reuse and recycling ............................................................ 14
1.11. Subtraction of Alternative Systems.................................................................................. 15
1.12. Biomass ........................................................................................................................... 15
1.13. Carbon Offsets ................................................................................................................. 16
1.14. Delayed CO2 Emissions and Carbon Stock in Products ............................................. 16
1.15. Recording Environmental Impact in Each Life Cycle Stage ............................................ 16
1.16. Collection of Evidence for Quantification ......................................................................... 16
1.17. Series Products................................................................................................................ 16
2.

General Rules of Declaration .................................................................................................. 18
2.1.

Declaration Overview ....................................................................................................... 18

2.1.1.

Basic requirements for the businesses that wish to make a declaration ................. 18

2.1.2.

Basic Declaration Rules ........................................................................................... 182

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2.2.

Contents of EcoLeaf Declaration ..................................................................................... 19

2.2.1.

Definition of EcoLeaf Declaration ............................................................................. 19

2.2.2.

Composition of EcoLeaf declaration ........................................................................ 19

2.2.3.

Details of description ................................................................................................ 20

2.2.4.

EcoLeaf Marks .......................................................................................................... 22

2.3.

Content of CFP Declarations ........................................................................................... 23

2.3.1.

Definition of CFP declarations .................................................................................. 23

2.3.2.

Structure of CFP declarations .................................................................................. 23

2.3.3.

Details of description ................................................................................................ 23

2.3.4.

CFP marks ................................................................................................................ 24

2.4.

Comparisons between Products...................................................................................... 25

2.4.1.

Comparisons with products of other businesses ..................................................... 25

2.4.2.

Avoiding comparisons of values in the market ......................................................... 25

2.4.3.

Comparisons between products with quantifications results from otherprograms.................................................................................................................. 25

Appendix A: Applicable Impact Categories and Characterization Models (rules) ......................... 26
Appendix B: Quantification Methods for Environmental Impact of Fuel Consumption
During Transport (rules) ................................................................................................................. 27
Appendix C: Displaying Comparisons of Environmental Impact Results from within
the Same Business (rules) ............................................................................................................. 28
Appendix D: Series Products (rules) .............................................................................................. 30
D1. Type A series products: the same quantification values are used for one
series product ............................................................................................................................. 30
D2. Type B series products: environmental impact values are estimated using
a formula for one series products .............................................................................................. 31
Appendix E: Verification Application Checklist ........................................................................... 32
Verification Application sheet ..................................................................................................... 32
Flow Chart sheet ......................................................................................................................... 32
Product Composition Chart sheet............................................................................................... 32
Input sheet (for each stage) ........................................................................................................ 32
Basis of Data sheet..................................................................................................................... 34
Declaration sheet ........................................................................................................................ 35
6-1. Declaration sheet: General.................................................................................................. 35
6-2. Declaration sheet: Sheet 1 (EcoLeaf and CFP) .................................................................. 35
6-3. Declaration sheet: EcoLeaf (Sheet 2) ................................................................................. 36
6-4. Declaration sheet: CFP (Sheet 2) ....................................................................................... 383

JR-07-04
These rules specify the quantification and declaration of EcoLeaf and Carbon Footprint (“CFP”)
marks of the Japan EPD Program by SuMPO (“Program”), operated and administered by the
Sustainable Management Promotion Organization (“SuMPO”).
Section 1 General Rules
1. Overview of Quantification and Declaration
Businesses (“business(es)”) that wish to make a declaration of a product under the Program shallperform quantification of the company’s own product, and shall create a declaration draft, pursuant to
the requirements prescribed as below and the applicable Product Category Rule(s) (“PCR”).
Declarations are authorized after quantification results and the declaration draft are approved ascompliant to applicable PCR and related rules through SuMPO’s verification process, and thenregistration and publication of declaration procedures are completed.
2. Requirements
The requirements for quantification and declaration shall be specified in Section 2 of these rules,“Requirements for Quantification and Declaration”, and applicable PCR.
3. Verification of Quantification Results and Declaration Drafts
Businesses shall perform quantification and prepare a declaration draft based on related rules andapplicable PCR. The quantification results and declaration draft shall be submitted to SuMPO as partof a verification application.
Rules for verification are specified in “JR-08 Verification Rules”.
For a checklist for preparing verification application documents, see Appendix E.

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JR-07-04
Section 2 Requirements for Quantification and Declaration
Businesses shall perform quantification and make a declaration based on these requirements andapplicable PCR.

* Italicized text in this document is for examples or explanations of requirements, and does notindicate requirements.
1.

General Rules of Quantification Method

1.1.

Environmental information Subject to Quantification

The Program provides quantitatively calculated environmental impact as environmental
information for products, according to life cycle inventory analysis (LCI) and life cycle impact
assessment (LCIA) based on LCA.
1.2.

Quantified Information

EcoLeaf shall provide calculation results for environmental impact in multiple impact categories(impact category indicators) as environmental information for products. CFP only covers
quantification of climate change, and is not applicable for evaluation of other impact categories.
1.2.1. Units of quantification
The units of quantification are referred to as “functional units”. Functional units include productunits, sales units, and volume units (for example, “per 100 g”).

1.3.

Life Cycle Flow Chart

Life cycle flow charts shall be created for each quantified product, which serve as reference for thelife cycle flow of each applicable PCR.
1.4.

Life Cycle Inventory Analysis (LCI) Methodology

Life cycle inventory analysis collects data on input of resources and energy (input), and production,
output products, and emissions (output) for each applicable product and service, and creates an inputoutput statement regarding elementary flow.
The “designated database” of the Program, which is a database of emission factors used for life
cycle inventory analysis, uses IDEA v2 for quantification, as a rule. In the absence of emission factorsthat are appropriate for IDEA, the applicant will generate an emission factor to supplement the
database. Then, they can use “registered data” approved by the review panel.
For details on conducting life cycle inventory analysis, see Section 1.7.

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1.5.

Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) Methodology

Life cycle impact assessment shall be conducted following these steps:･ Select impact category･ Allocate LCI results by selected impact category (categorization)･ Calculate impact category indicators obtained from results (characterization)

The Program shall, as a rule, use the LIME2 (Life-cycle Impact assessment Method based on
Endpoint modeling) characterization factor list for characterization factors. Impact categories used forquantification are described in Appendix A.
In addition, characterization models for climate change shall use the 100-year indices of the IPCC
Fifth Assessment Report. The impact category indicator (CI) for each impact category is calculatedusing equation (1), by adding the results of multiplying elementary flow (E) by the characterization
factor for each impact category (α).
CI = Σ (α × E)

(1)

CI: Impact category indicator for each impact category (such as climate change impact andacidification impact, etc.)6JR-07-04
α: Characterization factor (factor derived from a characterization model, which is applied in order toconvert LCI results into units that are common to impact category indicators)
E: Elementary flow (crude oil volume, iron ore volume, CO2 emissions, etc.)
1.6.

Product System (scope of data collection)

1.6.1. Examination of product systems
Quantification is performed based on system boundaries (scope of data collection) described inapplicable PCR. However, if a process which is included in the product system according to the PCR
does not exist in the actual product system of the quantified product, then these limits do not apply.
1.6.2. Cut-off items
In some cases, comprehensive investigation of product systems may impose excessive workburdens on businesses. Therefore, during quantification, life cycle stages, processes, or flows that are
not generally considered important in an applicable product’s life cycle can be cut off (not subject toquantification) from the product system if they fulfill certain criteria.
Cut-off items described in the applicable PCR can be cut off. In addition, cut-off criteria can be
added by each quantified product during quantification based on cut-off criteria specified in Section
1.6.3.

1.6.3. Cut-off criteria(1) Input of parts, materials, containers/packaging, and secondary materials shall cumulatively
comprise no more than 5% of the mass ratio of the reference flow. However, items with a smallmass, which are assumed to have a big impact category indicator, must be included in the
product system (Example: Printed circuit boards for electronics).
(2) Output of substances and wastes shall cumulatively comprise no more than 5% of the mass ratioof the reference flow. However, items with a small mass, which are assumed to have a big impact
category indicator, must be included in the product system. Particular attention should be paid to
direct emissions into the atmosphere, hydrosphere, etc. and to hazardous substances subject tocontrol. (Example: refrigerant leaks from air conditioners, and nitrous oxide emissions from

nitrogen fertilizers).
(3) Flows and processes which can’t be expressed in mass shall, based on estimated results,
comprise no more than 5% of the impact category indicator ratio. (Example: On-site transport
processes)(4) Other cases of scenarios which are difficult to describe in a coherent model due to a lack ofreliable information. (Example: Construction and capital assets of production plants, indirect
departments).
1.7.

Conducting Life Cycle Inventory Analysis (LCI)

Elementary flow (E) of each stage is calculated using equation (2), by adding the results ofmultiplying the activity data (W) by the corresponding emission factor (a).
E = Σ (a × W)

(2)

E: Elementary flow (crude oil volume, iron ore volume, CO2 emissions, etc.)7JR-07-04
W: Activity data (physical quantities such as amount used, amount of emission, amountprocessed, amount transported, etc.)
a: Emission factor (elementary flow per physical unit)

Table 2.
Life cycle
stage

Examples of activity data and emission factors

Examples of activity data

Examples of emission factors

Raw material
Amount of materials usedprocurement

Elementary flow per 1 kg of material
Elementary flow during assembly per 1 kgof weight

Weight of items assembled
Production

Distribution

Amount of electricity consumed
during production
Transport volume (t/km)

Elementary flow per 1 kWh of electricity= transport distance × loading rate Elementary flow per 1 t/km of transportvolume of goods
× truck load capacity

Use and
Amount of electricity consumed
maintenance during usage

Elementary flow per 1 kWh of electricity

Disposal and Weight of items sent to landfill
recycling
Weight of items recycled

Elementary flow of 1 kg sent to landfill
Elementary flow of 1 kg processed forrecycling

1.8.

Data Quality Criteria and Data Collection Methods“Primary data” in a product system refers to the data obtained from a direct measurement or
calculations based on direct measurements at the original source of information.

Note: For example, amount of fuel consumption in record books based on fuel metermeasurements, invoices or receipts from electric power companies, production numbers andyield rates in product production control charts, planned values and designed values collected bybusinesses, estimated values obtained from similar products, etc.
“Secondary data” in a product system refers to the data obtained from sources other than a direct
measurement or calculations based on direct measurements at the original source of information.
Note: For example, emission factor data provided by SuMPO (data from the designateddatabase, or registered data).
The relationships between activity data and emission factors, primary data, and secondary data
are described in Table 3.

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JR-07-04

Table 3. Relationships between activity data and emission factors, primary data, and secondary
data
Examples of activity data, andexamples of factors required todetermine activity data
Primary data ･ Activity data collected by

Examples of emission factors･ Emission factors obtained frombusinesses (amount of materials“declarations approved by verification”
used, weight of items assembled,which are actually used by businesses
amount of electricity consumed during for products (however, this only applies
production)
when all primary data requirements are
fulfilled)･ Planned values and designed
values collected by businesses,
estimated values obtained fromsimilar products･ Emission factors quantified based on
primary data collected by businesses orpartners in the supply chain･ Yield rates of similar products
collected by businesses
Secondarydata･ Transport distance between sites,･ Data from designated databaseprovided by SuMPO･ Thermal unit values of fuel,provided by SuMPO･ Registered data
･ Emission factors obtained from･ Values for scenarios described in“declarations approved by verification”

PCR• IPCC

Guidelines for National
Greenhouse Gas Inventories (IPCC)･ Greenhouse Gas Inventory Reportfor Japan (National Institute forEnvironmental Studies)･ Other data from published papers,etc.

9JR-07-04
1.8.1. Scope of primary data collection
Primary data shall be collected according to the scope of primary data collection described inapplicable PCR. However, if a process or flow that is specified in the scope of primary data collection
is cut off, then these limits do not apply.
1.8.2. Criteria for primary data quality
Data quality criteria for collection of primary data is as follows. However, if it is concretely describedin applicable PCR, then follow those rules instead.
[Criteria on scope of time]•

It shall be within the previous year. Or, it shall be within a scope that is reasonably equivalent to
the previous year.

[Criteria on scope of geography]•

Regional differences shall be considered, and appropriate calculations will be done based ondata from each region. However, if regional differences are very small or non-existent, then they
do not need to be considered.

•If the scope of primary data collection includes multiple sites, then primary data shall be collectedusing methods with low bias from sites which cumulatively comprise 50% or more of production
volume or acquisition volume of all sites. Or, it shall be within a scope that is reasonably
equivalent.

[Criteria on scope of technology]•

It shall be the production technology of the applicable product. Or, it shall be production
technology of similar products that is reasonably equivalent to the production technology of theapplicable product.

[Criteria on reproducibility]•

The basis of data shall be clear.

[Exceptions in primary data quality criteria for raw materials if primary data is collected from suppliers]•

The criteria on scope of time shall be any one year within the previous three years. Or, it shall bewithin a scope that is reasonably equivalent to any one year within the previous three years.

10JR-07-04
1.8.3. General Rules of primary data collection method
1.8.3.1 Activity data, and factors to determine activity data
The following methods shall be used for collection of primary data. However, if it is concretely
described in applicable PCR, then please follow those rules instead.
[Data collection using the process analysis method]
Measurement shall be conducted using method A described below. If measurement using method A
is difficult, then quantification may be performed using method B, or a hybrid of method A and B.
A: This method identifies and summates the input volume and output volume of input/output
items for each operational unit of work, equipment, and facilities that are necessary to perform aprocess (operation time, operation area, operation distance, etc.)

Note: Example: facility usage time × fuel consumption per facility usage hour = amount offuel input
The summation without omission of equipment and facilities, etc. which contributesignificantly to results must be confirmed.
In addition, the same summated calculations can be applied to other products which are
manufactured at the same site. Therefore, it must be confirmed that the combined total ofsummated results for all products does not deviate significantly from the actual values for thewhole site.
Operational units of equipment and facilities (operation time, operation area, operation
distance) can be sourced from records such as control logs and control software, etc.
B: This method allocates actual values for a certain period between products, such as business
units, building units, floor units, and line units

Note: Example: Total input volume of fuel per year is allocated between manufactured
products
The allocation method shall follow “1.10. General Rules of Allocation”, and co-products shall be
included in allocation.
[Other considerations for collection of data]•

Designed values, planned values, and estimated values
Actual measurements are prioritized in collection of input/output flow data for each process, but it isalso acceptable to use designed values and planned values from product proposals, specification
sheets, standard formula sheets, etc., and estimated values from processes of similar products.
However, if designed values, planned values, or estimated values are used, then primary data quality
criteria must be fulfilled.
•

Considerations for loss rate of input amountThe input amount of each input item for each process shall be quantified with consideration of loss

rates for each process. However, if it is not possible to perform realistic consideration of loss rates due
to a large number of elements and processes for each input item, then these limits do not apply.
•

Wastes11

JR-07-04
Data shall be collected based on the mass balance of each process regarding the output amount ofwastes. However, if it is not possible to perform realistic collection of data based on the mass balance
due to a large number of elements and processes for each input item, then allocation may be basedon the generated volume of wastes of the whole plant.

Note: For example, data regarding the volume of waste generated by the whole plant may becollected from the manifest.
•

WastewaterIf wastewater is discharged after being treated in septic tanks, etc. at a treatment facility, within thescope of business operations, then data shall be collected regarding the treatment process at thetreatment facility. Handling of sludge, etc. generated by treatment facilities shall follow the previous
section, “Handling of wastes”.
•

Self-generated electricity
If self-generated electricity is used within the scope of business operations, then data shall becollected by fuel type regarding the amount of fuel used for electricity generation.
•

Steam
If self-supplied steam is used within the scope of business operations, then data shall be collectedby fuel type regarding the amount of fuel used for steam generation.
•

Groundwater
If groundwater is used for water within the scope of business operations, then drawn water shall berecorded, and in some cases, consumption shall be recorded. In addition, the amount of energy used
for drawing groundwater and purifying groundwater shall be recorded.
•

Cases when large variations in collected data are expected
If large variations in collected data are expected, such as when data is collected from multiple

technologies, multiple plants, or multiple companies, then caution must be taken to ensure thatprimary data quality criteria are fulfilled.
1.8.3.2 Emission factors
If emission factors are generated based on primary data, then the impacts associated with thetreatment of wastes and wastewater generated during production, and the transport of these totreatment facilities, must be included in calculations, in addition to the impacts associated with input
items. In addition, if PCR exist for the supply chain of products that are candidates for quantification,then applicable PCR should be followed to collect primary data to generate emission factors.

Note: For example, if emission factors of containers/packaging are collected as primary data,then collection of data should be performed based on PCR of the containers/packaging.
•

Emission factors obtained from public data approved by verification
If a product approved by verification, or a similar product, is used in the life cycle of a product, thenemission factors obtained from the declaration of the product approved by verification may be used as
primary data. However, this only applies if the information specified in the declaration covers
information to be published about the product, and all primary data requirements are fulfilled.
12JR-07-04
Therefore, if the CFP declaration of a product approved by verification is used as an emission factor,
then only climate change information can be published. If an EcoLeaf declaration is used as anemission factor, then only the items with the same elementary flow and impact category can be used
for quantification.
In addition, if a product used in the life cycle of a product is similar but not identical, and the primarydata quality criteria in the previous section are not fulfilled, then it can’t be used as primary, but it canbe used as secondary data.
•

Emission factors obtained from data collected by businesses or partners in the supply chain
Emission factors quantified based on primary data collected by businesses or partners in the supply

chain may be used as primary data. However, primary data collected by businesses or partners in the
supply chain must fulfill the primary data quality criteria in the previous section.
1.8.4. Criteria for secondary data quality
Data quality criteria for collection of secondary data is as follows.
[Criteria on scope of time]•

If businesses collect data independently, then it shall be from any one year within the previous
five years. Or, it shall be within a scope that is reasonably equivalent.

•

Data that is more than five years old shall be reviewed to confirm validity.

[Criteria on scope of technology]•

It shall be very similar to the production technology of the product. Or, it shall be the production
technology of the product.

[Criteria on reproducibility]•

Sources of data shall be published. Publishing refers to normal publication, and also includes
publication in books or journals, members-only publication, and publication in software, etc.
Data collection items which exceed 20% of impact category quantification results to be publishedmust fulfill all quality criteria. However, if it is concretely described in applicable PCR, then please
follow those rules instead.
1.8.5. Secondary data collection methods
If it is concretely described in the PCR, then follow those rules instead.
Quantification of greenhouse gases other than CO2 from sources such as livestock, compost, andsoil (for example, N2O emissions from fertilizers) shall be performed following the principles andmethods specified in internationally approved literature, including the Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Report for Japan (National Institute for Environmental Studies) and the IPCC Guidelines for National
Greenhouse Gas Inventories (IPCC).
Other environmental impacts should be analyzed the same way, following the principles andmethods specified in internationally approved literature, if available.

13JR-07-04

1.8.5.1 Activity data, and factors to determine activity data
The following data sources may be used:•

Transport distance between sites, provided by SuMPO•

Thermal unit values of fuel, provided by SuMPO•

Values for scenarios described in applicable PCR•

Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report for Japan (National Institute for Environmental Studies)•

IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (IPCC)•JLCA database•

Other data from published papers and materials

1.8.5.2 Emission factors
Businesses can use “designated database data”, “registered data” approved by the review panel,and “declarations approved by verification” as emission factors. Businesses shall select emission
factor data that is appropriate for the activity data of the candidate product, with consideration foremission factor system categories. Businesses shall select a database for the basis of quantification,and shall supplement with registered data, etc. only if there are no applicable emission factors.
If a declaration approved by verification is used as secondary data, and the CFP declaration of a
product approved by verification is used as an emission factor, then only climate change information
can be published. If an EcoLeaf declaration is used as an emission factor, then only the items with thesame elementary flow and impact category can be used for quantification.
1.9.

Transport

Quantification methods for environmental impact of fuel consumption during transport are specified
in Appendix B.
1.10. General Rules of Allocation
If multiple products are generated from a process, then input/output flow must be allocated between
multiple products, so allocation must be performed according to the following step-by-step procedure:a)

Step 1: Allocation should be avoided using the following methods, if possible.
1) Dividing the unit processes for allocation into two or more sub-processes, and collecting
input/output flow data related to the sub-processes
2) Expanding the product system to include additional functions related to co-productsb) Step 2: If allocation can’t be avoided, then the system input/output flow should be divided, andallocation should be performed using a method that reflects the intrinsic physical relationships
between different products and functions. Therefore, allocation should be performed based on
the relationships of changes in input/output flow correlated to volume-related changes in the
products and functions provided by the system.

Note: For example, allocation may be performed proportionally between co-products
according to the mass of products, thermal values, quantity, and work area, etc.

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JR-07-04c) Step 3: If physical relationships aren’t sufficient to be used as the basis for allocation, theninput/output flow should be allocated using a method that reflects the relationships between
products and functions, and other factors.

Note: For example, allocation of environmental data for input/output flow may be performed
proportionally between co-products according to the economic value of products. In somecases, if lightweight and high-added value products such as precious metals are mixed in,then it may be reasonable to allocate proportionally according to the monetary value.
In some cases, output flow may be partially co-products, and partially wastes. In such cases, theinput/output flow must only be allocated to co-products. Whether goods are a co-product, or not, shallbe decided following comprehensive judgement of social aspects.

Note: For example, by-products which have a significantly lower economic value compared tothe main product should be considered wastes and not co-products, and are not subject toallocation.
Allocation procedures must be applied uniformly for similar input/output flows in the product system.

Note: For example, when allocation is performed for usable products output by the system (forexample, intermediate products and end-of-life products), then allocation procedures must be
the same procedures used for products input into the system.
1.10.1. Criteria for allocation in reuse and recycling
The general rules of allocation are also applicable to reuse and recycling. If allocation can’t be
avoided, then allocation should be performed using the following criteria.
•

Open-loop recycling
Waste materials that will be recycled shall be included in the product system, from the process thattransports it to the site where it will be processed for recycling, until the completion of processing forrecycling (See Figure 1.) Materials output by the product system that have been processed forrecycling are not subject to allocation (the allocation factor is treated as zero). However, if this method
is not appropriate for allocation, then an appropriate allocation method should be chosen inconsideration of the methods described in Step 2 and Step 3 in the general rules of allocation.

15

JR-07-04
Figure 1. Example of system boundary settings in open-loop recycling
Waste materials that will be reused shall be included in the product system, up to the moment ofdisposal (See Figure 2.) Materials that will be reused are not subject to allocation (the allocation factor
is treated as zero).

Figure 2.
•

Example of system boundary settings in open-loop reuse

Closed-loop recycling
Materials that will be reused or recycled are not subject to allocation.

1.11. Subtraction of Alternative Systems
If the product system is expanded to include additional functions related to co-products in order toavoid allocation, then subtractions of a product system (substitute system) that includes co-productswith equivalent functions can be displayed as additional information. However, in such cases, caution
must be taken when evaluating the equivalency and appropriateness between the substitute systemand co-product functions. In addition, caution must be taken to ensure consistency of the productsystem. Therefore, subtraction is only allowed if the scope and conditions specified in PCR are fulfilled.
The same applies to cases when indirect impacts of reuse and open-loop recycling is subtracted.
1.12. Biomass
As a rule, CO2 generated by combustion and biodegradation of biomass managed with sustainable
methods, and biomass of reused materials like waste wood, is not recorded in impact category
indicators for climate change, except as otherwise specified in PCR. The reason for this is because
biomass traps atmospheric CO2 during production (growth), so the amount of CO2 released during
combustion and biodegradation is equivalent to that value.

Note: For example, wood is a circulative resource, but excessive use can be expected to leadto problems like the rate of growth falling behind the rate of logging. Therefore, wood must be
sourced from forests with appropriate planting and management, or reused waste wood.

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JR-07-04
However, CO2 emissions from input activity related to production and transport of biomass, andmethane or other greenhouse gasses generated by biodegradation shall be included in the productsystem.
1.13. Carbon Offsets
Offsets from carbon offsets, etc. shall not be included in quantification of impact category indicatorsfor climate change.
1.14. Delayed CO2 Emissions and Carbon Stock in Products
The product life of durable goods can reach decades or more. In such cases, the output fromproduct use, disposal, or recycling is delayed to a time later than production. However, quantificationmust be performed without consideration of delayed impacts or carbon stock in products.
1.15. Recording Environmental Impact in Each Life Cycle Stage
For products and packaging, etc. delivered to the recipient, input shall be recorded at the raw
material procurement stage, and output at the disposal and recycling stage.
Yield loss of raw materials at the production stage (Input for scrap materials etc. in the production
stage is to be recorded in the raw material procurement stage and output recorded in each generation
stage.)
Secondary materials, etc. other than those above that are input after the production stage anddisposed of at the applicable stage, shall have their input and output recorded at that stage.
• Secondary materials, etc. that are input and disposed of at the production stage and not delivered
to the recipient shall have their input and output recorded at the production stage.
• Secondary materials (transport materials) that are only used for the purpose of transport, and are
not delivered to the recipient, shall be recorded in both input and output of the distribution stage.
• Consumables, replacement parts, etc. that are added as a result of use shall have their input andoutput recorded at the use stage.

PCR classify processes included in the product system into life cycle stages. However,classification of specific processes into life cycle stages may not be appropriate in some cases due tothe actual circumstances of the business’s production process. In such cases, the process may beclassified and recorded in life cycle stages that are not included in the PCR. If it is recorded differently
than the PCR, then it should be described in the “Additional information on quantification results”
section of the declaration.
1.16. Collection of Evidence for Quantification
Evidence shall be prepared which clearly shows the correlation of each evidence document to each
item for data collection, to ensure that the quantification process is understandable.
1.17. Series Products
In the case of product groups which have common characteristics for product specifications andimpact category indicator correlations, systematic publication of declarations based on thosecharacteristics means not only simplification of the quantification/declaration process, but it is also17

JR-07-04
expected to expand opportunities for readers of declarations to obtain a broad range of information.
Therefore, product groups which have common characteristics for product specifications and impact
category indicator correlations shall be called “series products”, and declarations for series products
can be registered and published as a unit.
Quantification for series products shall be performed following Appendix D (rules).
1.18. Average Values“Average values” refers to representative values based on weighted average values of all applicableproducts with the same product data granularity, without specifying values (impact category
indicators) of individual products.
Product data granularity may be set by businesses within the scope that identical functional units
can be set.

For examples of product data granularity, see “JR-06 PCR Certification Rules”.

18JR-07-04
2.

General Rules of Declaration

2.1.

Declaration Overview

A declaration refers to information published on the website of this Program, based on PCR andquantification results.
Businesses can choose from two types of declarations: EcoLeaf, a Type III environmental
declaration which covers multiple impact categories, and CFP declarations, which only cover climatechange.
Declarations should be made in Japanese, but translations in other languages can also be
published.
When a business issues a communication with this declaration, it should be accompanied by use of
the CFP logo or EcoLeaf logo.
For details about using marks, see “JR-10 Rules for Registration and Publication of Declarations,and Usage of Marks”.
2.1.1. Basic requirements for the businesses that wish to make a declaration
Declarations can be made by businesses in a position to control brands for the products, and otherentities entrusted by these businesses. In addition, declarations can be made by business groups
such as industrial associations, not only individual companies.
Businesses or entities that wish to make declarations shall observe the following rules:•

Make efforts towards continuous reduction of environmental impacts. However, setting concretetarget values is not mandatory.

•

Follow applicable regulations for product labeling (Act against Unjustifiable Premiums andMisleading Representations, Measurement Act, etc.). Approval by verification in this Program
does not demonstrate conformity to regulations.

•

Use the common marks and display methods specified by Program operation rules in business
communications.

2.1.2. Basic Declaration Rules
The target audience of declarations are interested parties such as consumers and businesses who
use published information.
Declarations should be easy to understand by the recipients of information (the “readers”), while
avoiding phrases that can be easily misinterpreted, and appropriate caution must be taken to avoid
comparison with products of other companies. For detailed information, see “Guidelines on
Environmental Labeling (Ministry of the Environment, Revised March 2013)”.
From a viewpoint of transparency in declarations, as much information as possible that is easy-tounderstand should be published. However, it is important for businesses to maintain secrecy ofconfidential information, so confidential information does not need to be published.

Note: For example, it is acceptable to display quantification results for each stage as thesummation of the raw material procurement stage and the production stage, and to sub-divide
stages and display information for each process.
If quantification was performed based on “Series Products (rules)”, then it must be stated. In
addition, as a rule, quantification results should be displayed in two-digit values, with the third digit
rounded off.
19

JR-07-04
2.2.

Contents of EcoLeaf Declaration

2.2.1. Definition of EcoLeaf Declaration“EcoLeaf declaration(s)” refers to information disclosed about multiple impact categories based on
PCR and quantification results, published on the Program website.
2.2.2. Composition of EcoLeaf declaration
As a rule, EcoLeaf declarations are composed of two sheets, and the content of each sheet shall be
the following:<Sheet 1>
Items with asterisks (*) will be defined after approval by verification.
(1)

Registered business name(2)

Registered product name(3)

Product photo(4)

Quantification unit

(5)

Stages subject to quantification(6)

Product model, main specifications, and technical details (explanation of the product if
registered as a series product or average values)(7)

Contact information for product inquiries(8)

Registration number*(9)

PCR number(10) PCR Name
(11) Publication date*(12) Verification approval date*(13) Verification method(14) Verification number(15) Verification validity period*(16) PCR certification dates (Certification date, revision date, renewal date, etc.)(17) PCR review panel chair(18) Third-party verifier<Sheet 2>(1)

Life cycle impact assessment results(2)Life cycle inventory analysis information(3)

Composition of materials and substances(4)

Waste information(5)

Additional information on quantification results(6)

Other environmental information(7)

Considerations for emission factors

20

JR-07-04
2.2.3. Detailed contents of the EcoLeaf declaration
The content of Sheet 2 shall be the following:(1) Life cycle impact assessment (LCIA)
Disclosure of impact category indicators for any three impact categories, or more. However, if
disclosure categories are specified in the PCR, then follow PCR content instead.
The following perspectives should be considered when selecting impact categories for disclosure:･ Impact categories with social importance･ Impact categories with a large impact for the product･ Uncertainty of results of the impact category(2) Life Cycle Inventory Analysis (LCI) information
Disclosure of results of at least two LCI data sets (elementary flow), or more. However, if disclosure
categories are specified in the PCR, then follow PCR content instead.
The following perspectives should be considered when selecting data for disclosure:･ Items with a large environmental impact for the product･ Items with a large impact for impact categories that will be disclosed･ Items which require continuous reduction of impact by the businesses and the supply chain(3) Composition of materials and substances
Describe the physical quantity and ratio of total product weight to weight of component materials
and substances which compose the product. If description methods are specified in PCR, then follow
PCR content instead.
The following perspectives should be considered when investigating component materials andsubstances for disclosure:･ Prioritize description of materials and substances which compose a large portion of productweight.
･ Describe materials and substances with a large impact for disclosed impact categories,
regardless of weight.
･ Summarize and record items with small environmental impacts as “Other”.
･ If the weights of component materials and substances are described, then the total should add
up to 100% if percentages are used, or the total should add up to the product weight if weights
are used.
(4) Waste information
Amount and type of waste generated (hazardous and non-hazardous waste) and other relevant
data should be described. Hazardous waste shall be defined according to regulations.
(5) Additional information on quantification results“Additional information on quantification results” refers to supplementary information related toquantification results, which is used for communication between businesses and readers. It includes
21JR-07-04
mandatory labeling in order to avoid misinterpretation by readers, recommended labeling in order topromote communication, and other information that is possible to display.
Additional information on quantification results shall be information which fulfills the following
conditions:･ Information related to quantification results･ Information specified by this document, or applicable PCR[Mandatory additional information]•

All additional information which complies with requirements in Appendix C (rules), such as
displaying comparisons for reduction rates•

If quantification was performed for series products, then an explanation shall be included•

If quantification of average values was performed for the average values of a business groupsuch as industrial associations, then an explanation shall be included, which also states thatvalues do not represent an individual product (Example: These values are the average valuesof member companies of the XX Industrial Association, and do not represent values of anindividual product)•

Number values related to assumed product life for durable consumer goods shall be included(Example: The life expectancy of LED bulbs is 10 years)•

If subtractions of a substitute system are used, then the substitute system and its impact category
indicators shall be included•

If a previously approved PCR is still applicable to a product, and there is a risk that readers could
misinterpret which PCR is applied, then information regarding differences (For example,

processes subject to quantification) between other PCR shall be included•

Other information specified in PCR[Recommended additional information]•

Graphs showing the ratios of impact category indicators by life cycle stage, by process, by flow,etc.

•

If the stage recorded for environmental impact is different than the stage specified in PCR, thenan explanation shall be included[Optional additional information]•

Impact category indicators of subtractions of a substitute system, (including indirect impacts ofreuse and recycling) if the product system does not include a substitute system•

Information related to delayed emissions of CO2 from the product and carbon storage in products,
if the product uses wood•

Target values and level of achievement for the business’s reduction of impact category indicators•

Simplified life cycle flow charts•

Labeling related to use (Example: “If you use the product this way, impact category indicators•

will be reduced compared to the label”)
Labeling related to container recycling (Example: Encourage recycling of containers after use.
“If 100% of this container is recycled, then CO2 emissions will be reduced compared to thelabel, and other impact category indicators will be reduced by XX)”22

JR-07-04•

Additional functions, if the product system is expanded•

Display of number values in other units that are easier to understand(6) Other environmental information (additional environmental information)
Environment-related items other than information obtained from life cycle inventory analysis (LCI)

and life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) shall be included as necessary. Information and instructions
for product safety that are unrelated to product environmental impact shall not be included in the same
section. The following should be considered when preparing additional information:a) Information on environmental issues
1) Impacts and potential impacts on biodiversity
2) Toxicity to human health and/or the environment (Information on hazardous substances)
3) Geographical aspects related to all life cycle stages (for example, discussion of therelationship of potential environmental impacts and the location of the product system)b) Data on product characteristics, if environmentally significantc) Status of compliance with environmental management systems, and how to find more
information on the environmental management systemsd) Other environmental certification programs for the product, how to find more information on thecertification programse) Other environmental activities of the business, such as participation in recycling or recovery
programs. However, these programs should only be included if consumers and users canaccess information easily, and if contact information can be shared.
f)

Information obtained from LCA, but not provided in a standard LCI or LCIA formatg) Instructions and limitations on efficient use
h)Hazard and risk assessment for human health and the environmenti)

Information on the absence, or volume present, of materials in products that are known to beenvironmentally significant in a certain regionj)Preferred waste management options for end-of-life productsk)Possibility of events which cause environmental impacts(7) Considerations for emission factors
Emission factors shall be described, including version information.
2.2.4. EcoLeaf Marks
EcoLeaf marks can be used on products by businesses that have made EcoLeaf declarations. As arule, EcoLeaf marks are affixed to the product directly, or on the product packaging. Businesses canalso choose from other display options like websites, pamphlets, environmental reports, price tags,
storefronts, and QR codes. However, businesses may not choose ways that could be misinterpreted
by interested parties. Usage must comply with the Declaration and Registration Publication Rules.

23

JR-07-04
2.3.

Content of CFP Declarations

2.3.1. Definition of CFP declarations“CFP declaration(s)” refer to information disclosed about climate change based on PCR andquantification results, published on the Program website.
2.3.2. Structure of CFP declarations
As a rule, CFP declarations are composed of two sheets, and the content of each sheet shall be thefollowing:<Sheet 1>
Sheet 1 of EcoLeaf and CFP declarations have the same structure, so see Section 2.2.2 “Structureof EcoLeaf declarations”.
<Sheet 2>(1)

CFP quantification results(2)

Additional information on quantification results(3)

Other environmental information(4)

Interpretation of CFP quantification results(5)

Considerations for emission factors

2.3.3. Detailed contents of the CFP declaration
The content of Sheet 2 shall be the following:(1) CFP quantification results“CFP quantification results” refers to quantification results for the impact category of climate change(100-year indices of the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report). “Number value(s)” refers to values displayed
above CFP marks, based on CFP quantification results. Businesses can choose whether or not todisplay number values above the mark.
Businesses can choose the units for number values according to their own goals of using CFP for
communication. As shown in the following examples, values are not limited to quantification units.

Note: Examples of number value units•

Per 1,000 hours of 100-watt light•

Per each product•

Per set of 5 products•

Per 100 g•

Per m3 of wood•

Reduction rate (Example: Reduction rate of emissions compared to base year, etc.)•

Without value (only CFP mark is displayed)

As a rule, quantification results should be displayed in two-digit values, with the third digit rounded
off. The same applies to marks displaying comparisons of reduction rates.

Note: For example, if CFP quantification results are “123 g”, they should be displayed as “120g”. When displaying comparisons, the third digit should be rounded off before finding thedifference between products for comparison, then the third digit of the difference should also be24JR-07-04
rounded off.
CFP quantification results, based on CFP quantification conditions, can only be displayed above
CFP marks if they are representative within the expected scope.

Note: For example, when considering the disposal method of end-of-life products, number
values can be displayed if the product was evaluated based on a scenario that included theactual disposal of the applicable end-of-life product, but if CFP quantification was performed
assuming a scenario with 100% recycling, then number values can’t be displayed above the CFP
mark because it is not representative.
(2) Additional information on quantification results“Additional information on quantification results” refers to supplementary information related to CFP
quantification results, which is used for communication between businesses and readers. It includes
mandatory labeling in order to avoid misinterpretation by readers, recommended labeling in order topromote communication, and other information that is possible to display.
Additional information on quantification results shall be information which fulfills the following
conditions:･ Information related to CFP quantification results･ Information specified by this document, or applicable PCR
Note: This does not prevent the display of information that is not included in the Program pledge,
such as information on carbon offset credits, adjacent to the CFP mark.
For examples of mandatory, recommended, and optional additional information, see Section 2.2.3.
(5).
However, if a number value is not displayed above the CFP mark, then it is not necessary to include
additional information that is specified as mandatory for CFP adjacent to the mark. For details, see“JR-10 Rules for Registration and Publication of Declarations, and Usage of Marks”.
(3) Other environmental information
Environment-related items other than information obtained CFP quantification results shall be
included as necessary. Information and instructions for product safety that are unrelated to productenvironmental impact shall not be included in the same section.
For more information, see Section 2.2.3. (6).
(4) Interpretation of CFP quantification results
Businesses shall interpret CFP quantification results. The interpretation shall include descriptions
related to limitations and uncertainty of CFP quantification results.
(5) Considerations for emission factors
Emission factors shall be described, including version information.
2.3.4. CFP marks
CFP marks can be used by businesses that have performed CFP quantification and prepared a25

JR-07-04
declaration draft, which was approved by verification.
As a rule, CFP marks are affixed to the product directly, or on the product packaging. Businesses
can also choose from other display options like websites, pamphlets, environmental reports, price tags,
storefronts, and QR codes. However, businesses may not choose ways that could be misinterpreted
by interested parties.

Note: For example, if the CFP quantification and declaration was prepared for printed
materials, and the content of those materials will be provided in an alternative form such as
digital media, then the CFP mark shall be removed, or an explanation shall be included statingthat the CFP values are for printed materials.
CFP marks can also be displayed on intermediate goods. However, in order to avoid
misinterpretation by readers, the part subject to CFP quantification (for example, “Only containers

were evaluated”) shall be included in the additional information section. If businesses wish to display
marks of intermediate goods on final goods such as product containers, then steps must be taken toinvestigate and choose a labeling method that avoids misinterpretation by readers.
Usage must comply with the Declaration and Registration Publication Rules.
2.4. Comparisons between Products
In this Program, comparisons between products based on quantification results shall display two or
more different quantification results presented as a “ratio” or “side-by-side” comparison. “Ratio” also
includes “reduction rate.” From a general perspective of limitations in LCA methods (see note),comparison of values between different products must fulfill a set of conditions. In this Program, thefollowing conditions shall apply for comparisons between products:
1) Comparison is between products from within the same business.
2) Comparisons of quantification results from within the same business shall be displayed following

Appendix C (rules).
2.4.1. Comparisons with products of other businesses
Comparisons with products of other businesses is not permitted at this time.

Note: Limitations of LCA methods include data quality of available emission factor data, anduniformity of quantification rules.
2.4.2. Avoiding comparisons of values in the market
SuMPO shall take measures to avoid misinterpretation of comparison of impact category indicators
disclosed in the market.
2.4.3. Comparisons between products with quantifications results from other programs
Quantification results of this Program can’t be compared to quantification results obtained following
the requirements of other programs.

26JR-07-04
Appendix A: Applicable Impact Categories and Characterization Models (rules)

Impact Categories

Impact Assessment Model

Unit

IPCC 2013 GWP 100a

100-year Indices (Fifth Assessment Report)
kg-CO2eq(IPCC 2013)

Ozone layer depletion

ODP (WMO 1998)

kg-CFC-11eq

3

Acidification

DAP (LIME, 2006)

kg-SO2eq

4Urban air pollution

UAF (LIME, 2006)

kg-SO2eq

5

Photochemical oxidants

OCEF (LIME, 2006)

kg-C2H4eq

6

Hazardous chemicals(carcinogenic)

HTPcancer (LIME, 2006)

kg-C6H6eq

7

Hazardous chemicals (chronic) HTPchronic disease (LIME, 2006)

kg-C6H6eq

8

Aquatic ecotoxicity

AETP (LIME, 2006)

kg-C6H6eq

9

Terrestrial ecotoxicity

TETP (LIME, 2006)

kg-C6H6eq

10 Eutrophication

EPMC (LIME, 2006)

kg-PO43-eq

11 Land use (maintenance)

LOF (LIME, 2006)

m2a

12 Land use (modification)

LTF (LIME, 2006)

m2

13 Resource consumption

1/R (LIME, 2006)

kg-Sbeq1227

JR-07-04
Appendix B: Quantification Methods for Environmental Impact of Fuel Consumption During Transport(rules)[Rules for domestic transport]•

Transport processes between sites that have an impact on the full life cycle that is too large toignore shall be included in the scope for quantification.

•

Quantification shall be performed using the fuel consumption method, fuel economy method, or
ton-kilometer method described below. If quantification using these methods is difficult, thenquantification may be performed using a different method, but the method and its validity must be
included in PCR or verification.

•

Information from navigation software can be primary data for measurement of transport distancein addition to actual measurements.

•

If there are multiple transport routes, then the weighted average of data from all routes calculated
based on transport weight can be primary data. If there are many transport routes, then primarydata shall be collected using methods with low bias from 50% or more of all transport volumes.
The average values of routes with data collection can be substituted as primary data for routes
without data collection.

•

If frozen, refrigerated or chilled transport is used, then the impact of maintaining temperature shallbe considered.

•Transport scenarios shall be as described in applicable PCR. When using the ton-kilometer
method, primary data can be substituted for one or two parameters among transport distance,loading rate, and vehicle class.

[Rules for international transport]•

Rules for international transport are the same as for domestic transport. However, if there arenational or private rules for transport in applicable countries, then data collection may follow thoserules.

B.1

Fuel consumption method

1)

Collect data on “fuel consumption (L)” for each method of transport.

2) Perform quantification of environmental impact based on elementary flow obtained from the resultsof multiplying “fuel consumption (L)” by “emission factors of supply and use” for each type of fuel.
B.2

Fuel economy method

1) Collect data on “fuel economy (km/L)” and “transport distance (km)” for each method of transport,
and calculate fuel consumption (L) using the following equation:
Fuel consumption (L) = transport distance (km) / fuel economy (km/L)
2) Perform quantification of environmental impact based on elementary flow obtained from theresults of multiplying “fuel consumption (L)” by “emission factors of supply and use” for each typeof fuel.
B.3

Ton-kilometer method

1)

Collect data on loading rate (%) and transport impact (transport ton-kilometer) (t-km) for eachmethod of transport.

3) Perform quantification of environmental impact based on elementary flow obtained from theresults of multiplying “transport impact (transport ton-kilometer) (tkm)” by “emission factors of fuelconsumption per transport ton-kilometer” of each loading rate for each method of transport.
28

JR-07-04
Appendix C: Displaying Comparisons of Impact Category Indicators from within the Same Business(rules)In this Program, comparisons shall display two or more different quantification results for one
declaration, presented as a “ratio” or “side-by-side” comparison. “Ratio” also includes “reduction rate”.
Comparisons of quantification results from within the same business shall be displayed following therules of this Appendix. Comparisons can be displayed in declarations, or as a number value etc.
above CFP marks.
If comparisons are made, then the product in question and the comparison product must haveequivalent validity periods.
<Considerations for displaying comparisons of quantification results>(1) Basic conditions for products for “displaying comparisons”
In this Program, the following conditions must be fulfilled when “displaying comparisons”. In addition,comparisons should be displayed as functional units, and comparisons can be displayed in reference
flows.
(1) Quantification using the same PCR(2) Comparison between products from within the same business(3) Completely identical functional units (if reductions are displayed, then comparison can be
performed against equal or lesser functional units)(4) Identical or equivalent functions (if reductions are displayed, then comparison can be performed
against equal or lesser functions)(5) Equivalent data collection methods(6) Comparison between values that are verified(7) Inclusion of comparison conditions and function settings as additional information(8) Inclusion of explanation of difference from the comparison product as additional information(reduction as well as increase)(2) Requirements for displaying comparisons(1) Considerations for identical or equivalent functions•

Identical or equivalent functions shall be explained, including demonstration of validity➢

Equivalence may be demonstrated using Japanese Industrial Standards, etc.

(2) Setting functional units•

Multiple functional units can be set for one product. Therefore, businesses shall be responsible forsetting appropriate functional units which can’t be misinterpreted by interested parties

Note: For example, if a new type of USB memory with 5GB storage is compared to an older
type of USB memory with 1GB storage, then the storage is five times larger, but whether “per1GB of storage” is appropriate for display or not must be investigated in consideration of theusers who were satisfied with 1GB storage (See table below.)
Table: Examples of CFP display for USB memory (values are imaginary)1

Product specifications(memory capacity)

New productOlder product

5GB

1GB

29

JR-07-04
2

CFP value per each product 10kg-CO2/each

5kg-CO2/each

3

CFP value per storage
capacity

5kg-CO2/GB

2kg-CO2/GB(3) Primary data and secondary data•

The product in question and the comparison product shall use the same emission factor databasefor quantification. (Therefore, if previous verification results used a different emission factor
database, then re-verification is required.)(4) Comparisons with older data•

Comparisons with older products may be performed as long as data is available for verification➢

Even if data for the comparison product is 10 years old, if it can be verified, then it can beused for displaying comparisons.

(5) Display criteria for reduction rates•

It is said that if reduction rates do not reach or exceed a certain level, then it should not beapproved for displaying. However, if data collection methods are equivalent, then even small
reduction rates may be displayed(6) Partial reduction•

Partial reduction claims and reduction limited to certain life cycle stages may be displayed inadditional information when displaying comparisons (reduction rate, etc.) for the full life cycle.
However, steps must be taken to provide additional information that avoids misinterpretation byreaders(7) Setting comparison targets•

Comparisons can’t be made based on unrealistic scenarios•

Comparisons can’t be made based on designed values which are worse than actual values•

Comparisons must include a clear explanation of difference from comparison product (reduction
and increase)•

If comparison is made against a product that will be sold at the same time, then the comparison
product should be whichever is objectively considered to be the standard product(8) Setting impact categories for comparison•

If the Japan EPD Program by SuMPO is used for disclosure, then trade-offs are allowed in somecases (Example: lower climate change impact, but higher eutrophication impact) If comparison
results are disclosed, then all impact categories must be disclosed.

Note: Examples of possible comparisons in display•
Changes over time in quantification results (performance tracking)•Comparison of quantification results for different raw materials used•
Comparison of quantification results for different manufacturing methods•
Comparison of quantification results for different distribution and sales methods•
Comparison of quantification results for different use and maintenance methods•
Comparison of quantification results for different disposal and recycling methods30JR-07-04
Appendix D: Series Products (rules)
D1. Type A series products: the same quantification values are used for one series productIn the case of product groups which have common characteristics for product specifications andimpact category indicator correlations, quantification results may not be impacted very much bydifferent product specifications in product groups which have common characteristics. Therefore, if it
can be demonstrated that impact category indicators of impact categories for declarations are within arange of ±5% compared to the standard product, then the quantification results of the standard
product can be used as quantification results for multiple products which are defined as series
products.
“Series product” refers to one group of similar products.
If series product definition methods are specified in PCR, then follow those definition methods
instead.

Impact category
indicators

210
200
190
180
170
160
150
140
130
120
110
100

±5%

Standard
product

Spec. A

Spec. BSpec. CSpec. DSpec. E

Figure 3. Examples of Type A series products
Classification of Type A series products
A-1: Different products, but no difference in either activity data or emission factors･ Markers in different colors (red, blue, yellow, green, and black)A-2: Different activity data, emission factors, and/or quantification logic

31JR-07-04
D2. Type B series products: impact category indicators are estimated using a formula for one series
products
If a specific formula can be established for the environmental impact of series products, then impact
category indicators of other products can be estimated using the same formula.
Declarations for series products are allowed to publish impact category indicators for each life cycle
stage of only the standard product, if the following conditions are fulfilled:(1) Main functions and main manufacturing conditions are the same, except for parameters used in
the formula.
(2) Formula definitions and quantification method using the formula are defined in PCR.
(3) Reasoning of the formula is qualitatively described in PCR.
(4) PCR includes an explanation that the deviation of values from results from formula quantification,and results from summated quantification, is within a range of ±5% for the same product.
However, if there is a possibility that values of quantification results won’t be within this range if
data collection methods are changed (for example, changes in allocation methods), then theselimits do not apply.

Note: Examples of Type B series products•

Examples of product weight as a parameter: product weight difference of sugar, size
difference of storage containers, size difference of clothing•

Examples of product thickness as a parameter: gauge differences of pre-sensitized plates forlithographic printing
300
±5%
250
200

Impact category 150
indicators
100
50
Parameters
0
0

20

40

60

Figure 4. Examples of Type B series products
Classification of Type B series products
B-1: The formula and parameters are defined in advance by PCR
B-2: The formula and parameters are defined by using the candidate product32

JR-07-04
Appendix E: Verification Application Checklist
1. Verification Application sheet
No.
Details
If there are other materials forverification that should be submitted inaddition to the documents listed here,
1-1
write them in the “Attached Documents”
space.
If compliance with ISO 21930 is also
requested, include a statement in the
1-2“Other” space.

Important points
The office will check comments andconfirm if additional documents areattached. If the documents are not written
here, they will not be distributed asmaterials.
ISO 21930 claims are not confirmed during
normal verification.

2. Flow Chart sheet
No.
2-1
2-2

Details
Charts that properly describes the life
cycle flow of the product are included.
Descriptions in the flow chartcorrespond to the descriptions in the
input sheet for each stage.

3. Product Composition Chart sheet
Details
No.
3-1

3-2
3-3

Important points
Product catalogs and other materials may
be submitted as attached documents. All
raw materials, parts, and other items thatshould be included for quantification can be
confirmed.

It includes all the parts, accessories,
and composition.

“Composition of materials andsubstances” includes physical quantitiesof the finished product.
“Composition of materials andsubstances” includes materials of partsand other items.

4. Input sheet (for each stage)
DetailsNo.
4-1
It is consistent with the flow chart.
All required data items are collected as
4-2
specified in PCR.
Reference numbers for information
which serves as the basis for values in
4-3
collected primary data (basis of data)
are described appropriately.
The material balance has been
4-4
confirmed for each process.

4-5

Important points
It covers the life cycle stages subject toquantification, as specified in PCR.
Process numbers are added in order toclearly indicate which item on the input
sheet they apply to.

The emission factor codes are correctly
written for each emission factor. The
number of available data does notexceed the maximum allowance.

33

Important points

Selecting the wrong reference number orproviding a non-existent number is acommon mistake.

“Emission factor codes” refers to IDEA
emission factor codes, elementary flowcodes, and registered emission factor
codes. Confirm if the automaticallygenerated categories and names are
displayed correctly when emission factor
codes are entered.

JR-07-04

4-6

If PCR emission factors are used, theemission factors are specified in PCR
for the product.

4-7

There are no transcription errors fromdatabases, etc.

4-8

There are no data that are under oroverestimated. This ca be confirmed bychecking total life cycle contribution
rates and life cycle stage contribution
rates.

4-9

4-10

In cases when values of EcoLeaf or
CFP declarations of certified products
are used as primary data, the values
were obtained from using the applicableproduct directly.
If they are being used as secondary
data, it can be judged as equivalent to
the product.
Whether there were cutoff items. If
there were, they were made following“Requirements for Quantification and
Declaration” and PCR.

4-11

Items that are expected to have a large
impact on the full life cycle are not cut
off.

4-12

The primary data collection period
complies with the content specified in
PCR.

4-13

The emission factors are appropriately
selected and described.

4-14

Yield rates and losses are appropriately
considered.

4-15

In cases when secondary data is often
applied for transport processes, values
are quantified appropriately when
34

When entering information, emission
factors of other PCR can be selected, but
only emission factors specified in the PCR
are allowed to be used.
Make sure that there are no conversion
errors in digits or units (tons to kg, etc.).
It is generally understood that in manycases, major raw materials and major
production processes have a high rate ofcontribution to climate change, whilesecondary materials like cardboard have a
low rate of contribution. In cases withabnormal values, confirm by focusing oncommon mistakes including data collection
errors, quantification errors, and emission
factor transcription errors.

If a CFP declaration is used as primarydata, then it can only be used to publish
CFP.

If it is difficult to explain according to cut-off
criteria, then cut-offs can be avoided byusing the emission factors of similar
products.
In particular, direct emissions released into
the atmosphere or hydrosphere, andcontrolled hazardous substances must be
included even if the physical amount issmall.
If data for the past year is unavailable, thenthe reason why, and the validity of
substitute data, must be verified. In
addition, if data from a few months isconverted and substituted as data for one
year, it must be confirmed that the data is
not an underestimate. (For example, in acase when air conditioning is used,average values of summer data can beused, but it would also be necessary toinclude older data which demonstrates thatsummer has the highest rate of electricity
consumption throughout the year.)
Follow primary and secondary data quality
criteria to confirm descriptions of products
handled overseas, fitting of emission
factors of similar products, databaseselection, and transcription of values.
Losses in raw material input volume andtransport volume at each stage, and thematerial balance before and after
processes.
Check the transport distance, transportweight, and vehicle class.

JR-07-04
primary data is collected.

4-16

The way that validity of the selection of
allocation methods is verified.
Allocation methods comply with
“Requirements for Quantification and
Declaration” and PCR, and they arereasonable.

4-17

If data is collected by summation, checkif the scope of application (including air
conditioning, lighting, and indirect
departments) is appropriate.

4-18

The selection and content of scenarios
is compliant with PCR, and it is basedon adequate evidence.

4-19

Efforts are made to improve readability,
such as avoiding repetitive descriptionsof the same evidence, and using
uniform reference numbers.

35

Validity must be judged in consideration of
the specific application (Example: Forelectric lighting, the operation area
allocation method is generally reasonable.
However, because the allocation of manhours is also reasonable in some cases, if
it is difficult to collect data that identifies
power usage for just lighting, thenallocation by volume or quantity is also
acceptable as long as the contribution rate
to the full life cycle is also considered.)
How to perform allocation of electricity andother utilities in cases when other products
are manufactured in the same plant is acommon point of discussion aboutallocation in review panels. Therefore, thevalidity of this point must be confirmed withdiscretion. An allocation method that is
approximate and reasonable for the actual
situation should be selected without
overestimating because it seems more
acceptable than underestimating.
Confirm if actual load factor is measured
under optimal (nominal) operating
conditions. (If it includes warm-up andcool-down. If not, there is a reasonablebasis which avoids underestimation.)
Applicants are not allowed to set original
scenarios that are different from PCR. If
PCR scenarios do not reflect the actual
situation, then consider revising PCR.
However, if primary data is available for
distance, weight, or loading rate intransport scenarios, then that primary data
may be used.

JR-07-04

5. Basis of Data sheet
No.
Details
Values are appropriately transcribedfrom the evidence which quantification is
5-1
based on.
5-2

5-3

5-4

5-5

The name of the evidence (internal
information system, data source, data
creator, date of creation, etc.) is clear.
There is a clear explanation included foreach data item. It is written concisely forreadability, based on the digits
displayed.
If the scope of data items specified in
PCR is not detailed, the specific data
items are described in an identifiable
way.

There is clear correlation between
evidence documents and items for datacollection, to ensure that thequantification process isunderstandable.
The description of the formula isreasonable for the basis of data.

36

Important points

Confirm that all evidence whichquantification is based on will be stored forthe full duration that registration is
published.
Values with many numbers after thedecimal point are difficult to read, such as if
they are 10 digits long, so consider
readability when displaying numbers.

Write the basis for formulas as shown
below.
■ Examples of describing the basis of ___input volume in the XXX process(Example 1)･ Total consumption of ___ obtained as
primary data, 521 kg(___ Consumption Report, April 2017 toMarch 2018)･ Total production volume obtained as
primary data, 315 kg(Production Performance Management
Log, April 2017 to March 2018)･ Consumption of ___ ÷ total production
volume = 521/315 = 1.65
(ratio to product 1)(Example 2)
Final product weight (according to
production manual) ÷ final product yieldrate (yield calculation table: created by
Ichiro Hanada, Plant Manager) = amount of
raw materials used
5.2kg/0.86 = 6.0 kg(Example 3)
Product size (order log) × times processed(product plan) × ___ input volume for eachsize/type {(materials purchase record (peryear)) ÷ size of all products (performance
survey sheet)}JR-07-04
120 mm × 3 times × 0.0025 kg/mm pertime = 0.9 kg

6.

Declaration sheet

6-1. Declaration sheet: GeneralNo.
Details

6-1-1

The document is generally unlikely to be
misinterpreted by readers.

6-1-2

The document is generally easy forreaders to understand.

6-1-3

It doesn’t include any product promotion
slogans that are generally unrelated to
the Program (unrelated to quantification
results or the environment).

Important points
Re-read the application from a first-timereader’s perspective, and confirm if there
are no complicated phrases, sentenceswith unclear subjects, or sentences thatcan be interpreted differently by different
readers.
It doesn’t use any technical terms thatreaders won’t understand. In addition,
efforts are made to improve readability of
product information, such as using bullet
point lists.
Because the full declaration form is subject
to verification in this Program, statementsthat are unrelated to product information orquantification results can’t be verified.
Information that is allowed to be included
as additional information for the purpose ofpromoting communication is limited to
information derived from the quantification
results, and information that can be
confirmed during verification.

6-2. Declaration sheet: Sheet 1 (EcoLeaf and CFP)

6-2-1

6-2-2

The “Registered business name” is thebusiness in a position to control brands
of products that are candidates forverification, or another entity entrusted
by the business.

The “Registered product name”
appropriately describes the actual
nature of the product subject toverification. Product names that are too
generic are inappropriate, even for
limited-edition products, so provide aname that identifies the productspecifically.

37

Names of quantification consultant
companies, or names of businesses thatare not directly related to the product are
not included.
The “Registered business name” will be
displayed in the list on the Programwebsite.
For products with names that don’t identify
the product specifically, such as model
numbers, include an explanation about the
product so readers can understand what itis.
･ Include a generally understood productgenre in front of the product nameExample: School lunch tableware ABCXYZ･ If there are multiple applications for labelswith different conditions for one product,
include the quantification conditions inparenthesis after the product name.
Example: School lunch tableware ABCXYZ (used 100 times)
This registered product name will be
displayed in the list on the Programwebsite.

JR-07-04

6-2-3

The “Product photo” is a photo of the
product subject to verification.

6-2-4

The “Quantification units” comply with
PCR, and match the actual
quantification method.

6-2-5

6-2-6

6-2-7

6-2-8

6-2-9

6-2-10If the product design, etc. is not completed
before applying for verification, include astatement, and provide a photo before
publication.
If the product has conditions such as “1product is a set of 2 items”, then thequantification units may be difficult tounderstand, so be cautious about
consistency in expressions.
As a rule, the names of life cycle stages
specified in PCR should be used.
All stages must be included for final goods.
All stages “up to shipment as intermediate
goods” must be included for intermediate
goods.

All the “Stages subject to quantification”
comply with PCR, and match the actual
quantification method.
It is possible to identify final goods andintermediate goods, and to understandthe product life cycle.
The “Product model, main
specifications, and technical details” are In cases when “product model” doesn’t exist,
related to the applicable product. The
such as agricultural products, it can beproduct model is the specific model of
excluded.
the product subject to verification.
The main specifications and technical(Common example) If the description says
details describe weight, size, and other“30% recycled”, it is unclear whether itmeans “product made using 30% recycled
information so it can immediately
understood.
materials” or “quantified under theassumption that 30% of products will be
The description of series products
includes an explanation that multiple
recycled at the disposal/recycling stage”.
products are covered by the declaration, Write easy-to-understand descriptions.
and include the product specifications.
The addresses, phone numbers, andURLs in “Contact information” are theGenerally, it should be identical to themost appropriate contact information for registered business contact information.
declaration inquiries.
The certified PCR number referred to in“Applicable PCR number” is the mostIf the certified PCR is revised after the
updated version at the time of applying
verification application was submitted, it isfor verification. The name is appropriate.
not always required to use the updated
The “PCR certification dates” are theversion, but the updated version can bedates for the most updated versions,used if necessary.
and “PCR Review Panel Chair” is thecurrent chairperson.
If compliance with standards that are not
There is nothing extra added to, orpart of the Program is required, such as
missing from, the standards listed in
ISO 21930, include a statement. It should“Third-party verifier.”
be submitted together with the verification
application.
The product name (model) or range ofparameter values is included in the“Product model, main specifications,and technical details” for products withdeclarations that are registered andpublished as a series product.

38

JR-07-04

6-3. Declaration sheet: EcoLeaf (Sheet 2)
No.
Details(All of Sheet 2) Values are transcribedcorrectly from the quantification results
6-3-1
sheet, and values are entered as twodigit values with the third digit rounded
off.
(1) “Life cycle impact assessment
results” discloses results for three ormore categories, including categories
specified in PCR, with graphs that show
percentages by stage.
6-3-2
The values are transcribed correctlyfrom the “LCIA (results)” sheet. The
quantification results are written using
units that are easy-to-understand byreaders (g, kg, t), instead of using
exponential notation.

6-3-3

6-3-4

6-3-5

6-3-6

Important points

The impact categories are appropriate
choices to disclose environmental
information for the product.
Graphs can be in any format as long as
they help readers understand.

(1) The breakdown for “Life cycle impact
assessment results” is correctlytranscribed from the “LCIA (results)”
sheet, and values are written using
exponential notation.
Dashes (-) are used to indicate stages
that are not subject to quantification in
PCR.

The breakdown for impact categories
selected in 6-3-2 must be displayed.
If the total value doesn’t match thesummated value of all stages, include astatement in the margins, such as “Due tofractional processing, there may be a small
difference between the total value andbreakdown total value.”
Make a distinction between quantification
results of zero (0), and stages not subject
to quantification (-).

(2) “Life cycle inventory analysis
information” discloses results for two or
more data sets, including data specified
in PCR. If elementary flow is displayed
as a summation, the elementary flow isappropriately selected and summatedwith respect to the item name.

If special items are set, a description
should be included in “Additional
information on quantification results”.

(3) “Composition of materials andsubstances” describes amounts without
using exponential notation, and if
percentages are used, they add up to
100%. If weights are used, they match
the product weight.

Confirm that numbers are consistent withthe “Product Composition Chart” sheet andquantification data.

(4) If “Waste information” is described,
values are entered for both hazardousand non-hazardous waste in the life
cycle.

Include information for all hazardous waste
generated in the full life cycle, not justsubstances contained in the product.
If applicable, there is a breakdown ofhazardous wastes specified by laws andregulations.

39

JR-07-04

6-3-7

6-3-8

6-3-9

6-3-10

6-3-11

6-3-12

6-3-13(5) “Additional information onquantification results” includes all
required items specified in PCR and“Quantification and Declaration Rules.”All items mentioned in PCR as “...shall be
described...” or “...must be described...” aremandatory for inclusion. Items mentioned as“...may...” or “...can...” are not mandatory forinclusion.

(5) “Additional information onquantification results” doesn’t include
any information not based on
quantification.

Only information based on quantification
values should be described in “Additional
information on quantification results”.
In addition, do not include any productpromotion slogans that are unrelated to theenvironment.

(5) If quantitative effects of recycling aredescribed in “Additional information onquantification results”, data values werecollected appropriately as evidence todemonstrate those effects, and it
includes an explanation based on that
evidence.
If the declaration is registered andpublished as a series product, thefollowing information is described in (5)“Additional information on quantification
results.”
A-2: Standard product name (model)
B-1: Standard product name (model),impact category indicators or range ofparameter values for each productB-2: Standard product name (model),impact category indicators or range ofparameter values for each product, andcalculation formula

Additional information is also subject toverification.

(6) “Other environmental information”
doesn’t include statements related toquantification content that are notspecified in PCR and “Quantification
and Declaration Rules.”Information that is not based on
quantification results, but is related to theenvironmental impact of the product, should
be described in “Other environmental
information”.
In addition, do not include any productpromotion slogans that are unrelated to theenvironment.

(6)-2. If “Information on hazardous
substances” is described, include
information for all hazardous substances
generated in the full life cycle, not justsubstances contained in the product.

If applicable, there is a breakdown ofhazardous substances specified by laws
and regulations described in “Informationon hazardous substances.”(7) The name and version number of thedatabase referred to in “Considerations
for emission factors” are correct. If
registered data is used, the description
includes an explanation.

Writing the right database name with thewrong version number is a common
mistake.

40

JR-07-04

6-3-14(4) If “Waste information” and“Information on hazardous substances”
in (6)-2 are not described, these
sections may be deleted.

6-4. Declaration sheet: CFP (Sheet 2)
No.
Details(All of Sheet 2) Values are transcribedcorrectly from the quantification results
sheet, and values are entered as two6-4-1
digit values with the third digit rounded
off, instead of using exponential
notation.
(1) The quantification units of CFP
6-4-2
quantification results match Sheet 1.
(1) The CFP quantification results are
6-4-3
written using units that are easy-tounderstand by readers (g, kg, t).
(1) The breakdown by life cycle stage in“CFP quantification results” includes thesubtotal for each stage from the “LCIA
6-4-4(results)” sheet using two-digit values.
Dashes (-) are used to indicate stages
that are not subject to quantification in
PCR.

6-4-5

6-4-6

(1) values in “CFP quantification results”
are correctly transcribe from the “IPCC2013 GWP 100a” section of the “LCIA(results)” sheet, and values are entered
as two-digit values with the third digit
rounded off.
(1) The value (number value) of CFP
quantification results displayed above
the CFP mark is correctly transcribedfrom 6-4-4 “CFP quantification results”(including conversion to a two-digit
value), and the number value units areconverted appropriately.

6-4-7(2) “Additional information onquantification results” includes all
required items specified in PCR and“Quantification and Declaration Rules.”

6-4-8(2) “Additional information onquantification results” doesn’t include
any information not based on
quantification.

6-4-9(2) If quantitative effects of recycling aredescribed in “Additional information onquantification results”, data values werecollected appropriately as evidence todemonstrate those effects, and it
includes an explanation based on that
evidence.
41

Important points―
For example, 120 kg is not written as
120000000 mg, or 120 mg is not written as
0.00012 kg.

Make a distinction between quantification
results of zero (0), and stages not subject
to quantification (-).

Readers will rely on data included in the
declaration. If the total value doesn’t matchthe summated value of all stages, include astatement in the margins, such as “Due tofractional processing, there may be a small
difference between CFP quantification
results and breakdown total value.”
The value displayed above the CFP markis converted from the value in 6-4-4 “CFP
quantification results”, instead of the
breakdown total value, which summates
the results after dividing individual values.
All items mentioned in PCR as “...shall be
described...” or “...must be described...” aremandatory for inclusion. Items mentioned
as “...may...” or “...can...” are notmandatory for inclusion.
Only information based on quantification
values should be described in “Additional
information on quantification results”.
In addition, do not include any productpromotion slogans that are unrelated to theenvironment.

Additional information is also subject toverification.

JR-07-04

6-4-10

6-4-11

6-4-12(2) It is recommended to include graphs,
etc. showing the life cycle composition
ratio in “Additional information onquantification results”. If graphs are
Life cycles can be shown using illustrations
included, ensure that they are easy toother than pie charts, depending on theread. For example, if the values in one
goal of communication.
stage are extremely low compared toother life cycle stages, it may not be
obvious by looking at the graph, so use
arrows, etc. to draw attention.
If the declaration is registered andpublished as a series product, thefollowing information is described in (3)“Additional information on quantification
results.”
A-2: Standard product name (model)
B-1: Standard product name (model),CFP quantification results or range ofparameter values for each productB-2: Standard product name (model),CFP quantification results or range ofparameter values for each product, andcalculation formula
Information that is not based on(3) “Other environmental information”
quantification results, but is related to thedoesn’t include statements related toenvironmental impact of the product, should
quantification content that are not
be described in “Other environmental
specified in PCR and “Quantification
information”.
and Declaration Rules.”In addition, do not include any productpromotion slogans that are unrelated to theenvironment.

6-4-13

6-4-14(4) The “Interpretation of CFP
quantification results” is based only on
data used for quantification, andquantification results.
In addition, uncertainty and limitations aredescribed.
(5) The name and version number of thedatabase referred to in “Considerations
for emission factors” are correct. If PCRemission factors are used, thedescription includes an explanation.

Writing the right database name with thewrong version number is a common
mistake.

End of document.

42