/epd-to-spec
CSI specification sections with EPD requirements and proposed GWP limits
What it does
Type /as:epd-to-spec with a materials list, GWP limits, or EPD data. The skill drafts CSI three-part specification sections that require Type III EPDs, propose GWP limits, and include submittal and verification language. Every proposed limit names its source, unit, stage and basis — the lowest observed product value only becomes a requirement when you decide it should. Standard editions come from your project, not a built-in list.
Pairs with /as:spec-writer — this skill adds sustainability and EPD requirements to specific sections, while /as:spec-writer produces full outline specs without EPD language.
Install
Claude Desktop:
- Open Customize → Browse plugins
- Click + → Add marketplace from GitHub
- Enter
AlpacaLabsLLC/skills-for-architects - Install Architecture Studio
Claude Code (terminal):
claude plugin marketplace add AlpacaLabsLLC/skills-for-architects
claude plugin install as@skills-for-architectsOr symlink just this skill:
git clone https://github.com/AlpacaLabsLLC/skills-for-architects.git
ln -s $(pwd)/skills-for-architects/skills/epd-to-spec ~/.claude/skills/epd-to-specUsage
With explicit thresholds:
/as:epd-to-spec concrete max 350 kg CO2e/m3, rebar max 1.0 kg CO2e/kg, CLT max 125 kg CO2e/m3From EPD data:
/as:epd-to-spec use the Arboreal CLT EPD I just parsedFrom a project description:
/as:epd-to-spec write EPD requirements for a mass timber office — CLT floors and walls, steel connections, mineral wool insulationWhat it generates
For each material, a three-part CSI section with EPD-specific additions:
- Part 1 — EPD submittal requirements (ISO 14025, third-party verification), sustainability article with proposed GWP limits, quality assurance for environmental performance
- Part 2 — Proposed maximum GWP per declared unit, sustainable sourcing requirements, manufacturer EPD qualification
- Part 3 — Standard execution (no EPD-specific additions)
If you ask for green building program language, the skill works from the program’s current original rules with exact credit references — no bundled LEED thresholds or clauses.
Sample: Section 06 17 00 — Shop-Fabricated Structural Wood
Generated from: Arboreal CLT EPD data (GWP-fossil: 111 kg CO2e/m3)
1.04 Submittals
D. Environmental Product Declarations:
- Submit product-specific Type III EPD conforming to ISO 14025 and EN 15804+A2.
- EPD shall be published by an accredited program operator (Environdec, UL, NSF, ASTM, or IBU).
- EPD shall be current, valid, and third-party verified.
- EPD shall report GWP-fossil separately from GWP-biogenic per EN 15804+A2.
1.06 Sustainability Requirements
A. Maximum Global Warming Potential — Fossil (GWP-fossil): Cross-Laminated Timber: Maximum 111 kg CO2e per m3, life cycle stages A1-A3.
B. Sustainable Forestry: 100% of wood fiber from FSC, PEFC, or SFI certified forests.
C. Adhesives: Formaldehyde-free. PUR preferred.
2.01 Manufacturers
Arboreal, Stora Enso, Kalesnikoff, or approved equal. All manufacturers shall provide a conforming EPD.
2.03 Environmental Performance Requirements
Maximum GWP-fossil: 111 kg CO2e per m3 (A1-A3). GWP-fossil shall exclude biogenic carbon per EN 15804+A2.
Returns the requested sections with source locators and open review items, saved to a file when you ask for one.
Section numbers
Section numbers come from your verified inputs and template, not a built-in material-to-division map. If a classification is uncertain, it stays open for your review rather than defaulting.
Pairs with
/as:spec-writer— full outline specs without EPD language/as:epd-parser— parse EPD PDFs to extract the values behind a proposed limit/as:epd-compare— compare products before proposing limits