Advancing Sustainability Through PCRs

As sustainability expectations continue to shape the built environment, builders hardware manufacturers are facing growing demand for transparency, consistency, and credible environmental data. One of the most important tools supporting this shift is the Product Category Rule (PCR), and in 2025, BHMA reached a significant milestone with the release of its newly revised PCR for Building-Related Products and Services Part B: Builders Hardware EPD Requirements, UL PCR 10010–13 

Looking ahead, BHMA is also preparing to release a revised PCR for Power-Operated and Revolving Pedestrian Doors in mid-2026—further strengthening the industry’s sustainability framework. 

Why Do Product Category Rules Matter? 
PCRs are standardized guidelines that define how to assess and report the environmental impacts of products within a specific category across their entire life cycle. From raw material extraction and manufacturing to use and end-of-life considerations, PCRs establish the “rules of the road” for conducting Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and developing Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), third-party verified documents that communicate a product’s environmental footprint in a standardized and credible way. 
 
Why does this matter? Consistency and transparency are essential in sustainability reporting. PCRs ensure that products within the same category are evaluated using the same assumptions, methodologies, and impact categories. This allows architects, specifiers, building owners, and other decision-makers to make meaningful, apples-to-apples comparisons when evaluating environmental performance. 

Supporting BHMA Members 
For BHMA members, PCRs play a critical role in bringing products to the market. Members rely on BHMA’s PCRs to prepare EPDs, which are increasingly requested in procurement processes and green building programs, making them an important tool for meeting customer expectations and remaining competitive. 

The updated Builders Hardware PCR reflects the industry’s broader alignment with green building trends. Manufacturers are prioritizing sustainable materials, product durability, and designs that support long service life and energy efficiency. By maintaining current, technically sound PCRs, BHMA helps ensure that sustainability claims are backed by rigorous data and consistent evaluation methods. 

Building Forward 
In addition to the 2025 Builders Hardware PCR update, work is already underway on the revised PCR for Power-Operated and Revolving Pedestrian Doors, scheduled for release in 2026. This forward momentum highlights BHMA’s ongoing commitment to providing members with the tools they need to respond to evolving market demands and regulatory expectations. 

Behind these efforts is extensive collaboration and technical input from the BHMA members; their engagement ensures that BHMA’s sustainability initiatives remain practical, credible, and aligned with real-world manufacturing considerations. 

As we look toward the new year, PCRs will continue to play a growing role in how builders hardware manufacturers demonstrate environmental responsibility. BHMA remains focused on supporting its members with clear standards, guidance, and resources. 

To learn more about BHMA’s Product Category Rules, visit: 
https://buildershardware.com/Sustainability/Product-Category-Rules 

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