Across Europe, sustainability requirements are becoming increasingly stringent. In the Netherlands, our government has implemented strict regulations regarding the environmental performance of buildings. To classify a building as "sustainable," it is mandatory to calculate the Environmental Performance of Buildings (MPG) for new homes and utility buildings larger than 100 m². This score evaluates the environmental impact of all materials used, including lighting. Calculating this score requires validated environmental data for building products, which is obtained from the Dutch Environmental Database (NMD). We are proud to announce that our first product has been approved and included in this database. But what exactly is the NMD, and why are our products featured in it?
What is the Dutch Environmental Database (NMD)?
The Dutch Environmental Database (NMD) is a central database established by the government to provide insight into the environmental performance of building products. This data is essential for calculating the Environmental Performance of Buildings (MPG).
The NMD contains data based on the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of products. To have our lighting products included in this database, our R&D team has spent the past two years training to prepare Life Cycle Assessments in accordance with the applicable standards. Thanks to this expertise, we can now prepare our products for inclusion in the NMD independently. On 6 June 2025, our first luminaire was officially added to the database!
What is a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)?
A Life Cycle Assessment evaluates the environmental impact of a product throughout its entire life cycle, including the stages of raw material extraction, production, transportation, usage, and waste disposal or recycling. This assessment serves as a foundation for inclusion in the NMD. It must be conducted by a qualified expert or trained producer. After the LCA is completed, it is reviewed by an independent LCA expert recognized by the NMD. Once approved, the environmental performance data is officially published in the Dutch Environmental Database.
Which Illuxtron products will be in the NMD?
As of June 6, 2025, our Cortina 1720 x 100 has been officially added to the Dutch Environmental Database. We are currently working to prepare other products for inclusion as well. For example, we aim to have our LED Panel B and the Vesper ready for registration in the Dutch Environmental Database this summer.
Together for a sustainable future
As we approach the 2028 requirement for a material passport in the lighting manufacturing industry, we are taking proactive steps now to prepare. By gradually integrating our products into the NMD, we are contributing to a more transparent and sustainable approach to construction.