Become a recognized LCA consultant or LCA expert
As a recognized LCA consultant or LCA expert, you contribute to the quality and reliability of environmental data in the construction sector. Considering this step? This page explains which requirements apply, how the assessment process works, and what's needed to keep your accreditation.
For the assessment of a category 1 or 2 environmental declaration, a recognized LCA expert is always required: without this assessment, data cannot be included in the Dutch Environmental Database. This requirement does not apply to preparing an LCA: this can also be done by a non-recognized consultant. Accreditation as an LCA consultant is therefore a choice, not a requirement, but it is the first step towards accreditation as an LCA expert. This page explains the conditions for both accreditations, how to apply, and what's needed to keep your accreditation.
Two accreditations, one obligated
Stichting NMD has two accreditations: recognized LCA consultant and recognized LCA expert. The difference lies not only in the requirements, but also in the status:
- Accreditation as an LCA expert is mandatory. Category 1 and 2 data must always be assessed by a recognized, independent LCA expert before it can be included in the Dutch Environmental Database. Without this assessment, data cannot be included in the Dutch Environmental Database.
- Accreditation as an LCA consultant is voluntary but of great value to the system. An LCA can also be prepared without accreditation, for example by someone who only does this for their own company. Even so, Stichting NMD recommends this accreditation: it demonstrably shows that you prepare LCAs independently and responsibly, increases clients' confidence in your work, and is the first step towards accreditation as an LCA expert.
Requirements for accreditation as an LCA consultant
Choosing to be accredited as an LCA consultant? Every newly recognized consultant contributes to the quality and growth of the system. You qualify if you have sufficient work experience and knowledge of LCAs, construction products, and the Assessment Method for Environmental Performance of Construction Works, and have prepared and completed at least three verified LCA reports in the past two years, in accordance with the NMD Assessment Protocol.
To apply, submit a motivation letter, a CV, the relevant LCA reports with assessment reports, and the application form.
Register as a certified LCA practitioner
Requirements for accreditation as an LCA expert (mandatory)
Because every category 1 and 2 environmental declaration must be assessed by a recognized, independent third party, stricter requirements apply for this accreditation. You qualify if you have extensive work experience and knowledge of LCAs, construction products, the Assessment Method, and working with background databases such as Ecoinvent, and have prepared and assessed a sufficient number of verified LCA reports (via one year as a recognized consultant, or via a higher number of reports over two years).
To apply, submit a more extensive motivation letter, a CV, the relevant LCA reports with assessment reports, and the application form.
Register environmental data without accreditation
In addition to recognized LCA practitioners, non-recognized practitioners can also submit data. This is mainly intended for people who only prepare LCAs on behalf of the producer of the construction materials, for example for their own product range. You can request login credentials for this.
Frequently asked questions
Both routes are possible. You can have been a recognized LCA consultant for at least one year and completed three verified reports in that year, or have prepared and completed at least eight verified reports over two years.
No. Accreditation as a consultant is voluntary: you can also prepare LCAs without accreditation, for example as a data owner for your own products. For the assessment of category 1 and 2 data, a recognized LCA expert is always required.
You will receive a written, substantiated decision. You can lodge an objection with the Policy Committee for Environmental Performance Netherlands (BMNL) within six weeks.
Yes. Every three years you must demonstrate that you are still actively preparing or assessing LCAs. As a consultant, you're asked to take part in meetings organised by Stichting NMD; as an expert, in the biannual Recognized Experts Meeting (ETO).
There is a one-off fee for processing your application and an annual fee for maintaining accreditation. Current rates are on the .Rates page.
