Classification of ecomaterials in the perspectives of sustainability

Abstract

Ecomaterial has been well developed in Japan. The classification of these ecomaterials from the perspective of sustainability was introduced to help green procurement movement. The four main aspects considered for the classification are finite resources, persistent substances, ecological system and society. This would help the manufacturers as well as consumers in material and product selection for their goals of achieving sustainable development. Commercialized ecomaterials which introduced in environmental reports of Japanese companies in 2002 were studied. This paper also introduced three ecomaterials examples including ultra-steel for automobile, Toyota super olefin polymer, and eco-cement.