Concrete masonry product rules released Words: Hector KarrmasonryASTM International, with stakeholder input from the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) and other manufactured concrete product companies, has developed new Product Category Rules (PCR) for the concrete masonry industry to develop Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) for concrete masonry units, segmental retaining wall units, articulating concrete block, manufactured stone veneer, and related units. “With increasing emphasis on material transparency in high performance and sustainable codes and standards, the need to develop tools for concrete masonry producers to meet these needs was recognized by NCMA”, says NCMA President Robert Thomas. “Developing product category rules will facilitate development of environmental product declarations for manufactured concrete and concrete masonry products. Such declarations will help to highlight the environmental attributes of these products.” EPDs are fast becoming a highly regarded way to demonstrate a company’s commitment to environmental sustainability, quality and responsibility. Developing an EPD will give concrete masonry producers the opportunity to show the environmental impact of their product, allowing LEED credits. Visit www.ncma.org for more information.