During the recent SBCC BFRW Committee Meeting held on April 11, 2025, significant discussions emerged surrounding the experiences of contractors with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) in Washington State. Tim Atterberry, representing the Associated General Contractors of Washington, spoke passionately on behalf of the late Craig Holt, a former member of the state building code council. Atterberry recounted Holt's challenging experience with EPD projects, particularly one undertaken by his firm, Anderson Construction, for the University of Washington.

Atterberry emphasized that Holt had been a strong advocate for transparency and efficiency in construction practices. He described Holt's experience with EPDs as "horrific," citing the overwhelming amount of paperwork and the extensive staff time required to navigate the process. According to Atterberry, Holt had previously testified against the implementation of EPDs based on his firsthand experience, which he believed imposed significant costs on both the contractor and the university.

The discussion raised critical questions about the feasibility and practicality of EPDs in the construction industry. Atterberry urged proponents of EPDs to consider the implications of Holt's experience, highlighting concerns about the potential burdens placed on contractors and the overall impact on project costs. He suggested that the committee should carefully evaluate the feedback from those who have directly engaged with EPDs before moving forward with any related initiatives.

As the meeting progressed, other committee members, including Corey and Amy, expressed their willingness to respond to Atterberry's concerns, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing the complexities surrounding EPDs. The dialogue underscored the importance of balancing environmental initiatives with the operational realities faced by construction firms.

In conclusion, the discussions at the SBCC BFRW Committee Meeting highlighted the need for a thorough examination of EPD implementation in Washington State. As stakeholders continue to weigh the benefits of sustainable practices against the challenges faced by contractors, the insights shared by Atterberry and the legacy of Craig Holt serve as a poignant reminder of the real-world implications of policy decisions in the construction sector. The committee's next steps will likely involve further discussions and evaluations to ensure that any new regulations support both environmental goals and the practical needs of the industry.