The way we are currently sourcing and processing advanced materials globally is based on unsustainable practices. Advanced materials are critical enablers for the advancement of technologies across different sectors from energy, aerospace, transport, packaging, healthcare, electronics, textiles, construction, defence, etc. As populations rise and resources diminish, it is imperative we find new ways to balance economic progress with sustainability and zero emissions. Sustainably sourced resources processed into innovative, bioinspired hierarchical materials design can offer the much-needed transition to a more sustainable society. They can contribute to a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions and waste while boosting high-performance technologies and generating high value products. This theme issue brings together experts on the development and deployment of sustainable materials and their applications.

This is the first of two issues on this topic. The second issue published in September 2021 and is available here.

This issue is available to buy in print. Visit our information for readers page for purchasing options.