Bergknapp has a clear vision: “Reclaim nature”. The company designs, produces, and installs green roofs and living walls across Norway. In a market with increasingly strict environmental requirements, solid documentation is essential. For Bergknapp, developing their own Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) with support from LCA.no became much more than a compliance exercise – it became a catalyst for insight, collaboration, and organizational growth.
– We feel that this is our documentation. This is not something you can outsource – it’s almost like the heart of the company. I’ve actually grown quite fond of it, says Tone Meling, Marketing Manager at Bergknapp.
From Delivered Data to True Ownership
In the past, Bergknapp received their environmental documentation as a finished product – something made for them, not by them. The result was a distant relationship with the data describing their own products and processes.
– It became a challenge when we didn’t own it ourselves. When something is simply delivered to you, you don’t get the same sense of ownership. Now everyone is involved in the details – it feels like ours, Meling explains.
The collaboration with LCA.no changed more than just the method – it transformed the company’s attitude towards environmental data.
– I send out the documentation in a completely different way now because I understand what it means and how big a difference it makes, she adds.
An Internal Process That Engaged the Whole Organization
Initially, Bergknapp assigned one colleague – an ecologist – to lead the project, assuming it naturally fit within his role. But it soon became clear that they needed broader involvement. The project evolved into a cross-functional effort, with five people working together from different departments.
What began as a documentation task became a genuine process of organizational development. Meling now shares her key advice with other companies:
– We quickly realized we had thought about it the wrong way. My advice is to involve as many people as possible. That way, the work is anchored throughout the company, and everyone gains a deeper understanding. It has given us so much. We actually celebrate every time we make progress, she says with a smile.
Learning That Builds Connection
The in-depth analysis required by LCA.no pushed Bergknapp to examine every stage of their production and identify the real challenges in their value chain. The process also led to tangible innovation.
– It’s been a journey that’s made us more aware of everything we do. We question why we do things the way we do – and that’s led to real improvements, like the return scheme we’ve introduced for our green roofs, Meling explains.
Through the new return system, customers can send back used sedum cassettes for reuse in production – a clear example of circular economy in action.
– We couldn’t have done this on our own. LCA.no asked many of the right questions, prompting us to think differently. It’s proof that LCA work can drive sustainable business development, she adds.
Open Collaboration and Mutual Growth
For Meling, the collaboration with LCA.no has been characterized by openness, learning, and mutual improvement.
– LCA.no has been very receptive to feedback and suggestions. We’ve improved together – and that’s been invaluable. The cooperation has been constructive, professional, and educational for both sides, she says.
She also emphasizes the personal commitment behind the partnership:
– They genuinely care – and we can feel it. When they succeed, we succeed, Meling concludes.
Staying Ahead – and Sharing the Experience
Bergknapp delivers nearly 70 percent of all green roofs in Norway and views documentation as part of its responsibility as a market leader.
– It’s expected that we also lead the way in documentation – and I can honestly say we do, says Meling.
For her, EPD work is about more than numbers and compliance – it’s about culture, collaboration, and pride.
– Don’t wait. Take ownership and start now. Everyone will have to get there eventually, but it’s better to jump on board than to run after the train. For us, this has been an investment in both competence and community, she concludes.