Abstract: Ecomaterials represent a new area in advanced materials research.This paper briefly introduces the philosophical base of the concept of ecomaterials.Ecomaterial is a dynamic,continuously developmental and relative concept.The concept of ecomaterials is different from that of traditional materials,and it is an inevitable requirement to put the sustainable development of materials industry into practice.New developments and progress of ecomaterials research in recent years are reviewed from main areas,including Life Cycle Assessment of materials,recycle of materials and substances,harmonious materials with ecological systems(nature resource materials,degradable materials,and bionic materials),materials for environmental engineering,and ecological engineering related to materials.

Key words: ecomaterials, life cycle assessment, ecodesign, sustainable development