Materials selection and sourcing

Materials chosen in sustainable design are those that minimise negative environmental impact. This could be through their whole lifecycle - from sourcing, to manufacturing, use and disposal.
Preference should be given to recyclable materials. Recyclable materials can be reused and converted into new products, reducing demand for virgin materials.
Another aspect of sustainability is the efficient use of resources. Select materials with a low embodied energy, i.e., a small amount of energy used to manufacture, transport and dispose of them.
Renewable materials are crucial for sustainable design. These are materials that nature replenishes, like timber from sustainably managed forests, or wool from sheep that are sheared regularly.
Consider the longevity of materials. Durable materials that do not require replacement often are more sustainable than materials that have to be replaced frequently.

Locally sourced materials reduce the total energy in a product’s lifecycle by minimising transportation distance and supporting the local economy.
Certification labels help identify sustainable materials. Look for sustainability standards like FSC for timber, or GOTS for cotton.
Understand the complete supply chain for a material; from raw extraction to production, distribution, use, repair, maintenance, and disposal or reuse.
Select suppliers who demonstrate responsibility and transparency in their manufacturing and delivery process. This can involve social responsibility, such as fair labour conditions, as well as environmental responsibility, like low carbon emission or waste production.
Consider the end of life scenario of a product. Can the material and components be disassembled easily for recycling, or will they end up in landfill? Design should consider the whole lifecycle of a product.

The innovation in material science opens new opportunities for sustainability. Examples are bio-based materials, such as PLA (Polylactic Acid), a biodegradable material made from plant starch, and materials with self-healing or self-cleaning properties, that can extend a product’s life.
Composite materials can improve the performance and sustainability of products, by reducing weight, increasing strength, or improving insulation properties.
Beware of greenwashing. Not all materials marketed as ‘eco-friendly’ or ‘green’ are truly sustainable. Look for proven certifications, and understand the lifecycle and supply chain of materials.