Classification of environmentally friendly materials

Classification of environmentally friendly materials

Environmentally friendly materials are mainly divided into three categories: biodegradable materials, renewable/recyclable materials, and low environmental impact materials, covering the entire environmental protection cycle from production to disposal.

1. Biodegradable materials (disappear naturally after use)

• Biodegradable plastics: PLA (polylactic acid) and PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate), commonly used in takeout boxes, shopping bags, and disposable tableware.

• Naturally biodegradable materials: straw, bamboo fiber, corn fiber, which can be used as packaging materials, tableware, and textiles.

2. Renewable/recyclable materials (that can be reused or recycled)

• Renewable natural materials: wood (FSC certified), bamboo, cotton (organic cotton), wool, used in furniture, building materials, and clothing.

• Recyclable industrial materials: recycled plastics (PET bottle recycling), recycled metals, recycled paper, and recycled glass, widely used in packaging, building materials, and daily necessities.

3. Low environmental impact materials (extremely low pollution during production, use, and disposal)

• Low-emission building materials: environmentally friendly coatings (zero VOC), diatomaceous earth, water-based paints, and formaldehyde-free boards, used for decoration and renovation.

• Cleaning materials: Activated carbon and photocatalytic materials are used for air purification and water filtration, and have no additional burden on the environment.