The idea of Cradle to Cradle design has been around for a while now, see article Cradle to Cradle is 6. Since 2002, the ground breaking work by William McDonough and Dr. Michael Braungart has made a a huge impact on the materials industry. Material ConneXion, one of the biggest material databases in the world has recently begun collaborating with MBDC and EPEA to create the first Cradle to Cradle materials library.

A GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR CRADLE TO CRADLE DESIGN

Given today’s demands for more socially and environmentally conscious products and materials, it is important for companies to positively define their global impact and be leaders in environmental performance. Recognizing the value of each other’s expertise, Material ConneXion, MBDC and EPEA have joined forces to create the leading global platform for developing innovative, sustainable and Cradle to Cradle materials and products.

Our combined resources offer an invaluable sustainable design toolkit: Cradle to Cradle material information, assessment and certification, access to Cradle to Cradle materials, and the tools to develop Cradle to Cradle materials and products. Together, we offer specific knowledge in sustainable material solutions and practices, objective design recommendations, and a breadth of worldwide experience across multiple industries.

Unified in the belief that good design is good business, Material ConneXion, MBDC and EPEA are committed to providing greater global access to industry-changing Cradle to Cradle material solutions.

To see what materials have made it into the Cradle to Cradle library you can either register with Material Connextion for US $200 or visit one of the Libraries in New York, Bangkok, Cologne, or Milan.

Here is a little teaser from Treehugger of the materials that you will find…

Part of the C2C materials is a timber that has undergone a mineralization process, keeping it free of heavy metals while protecting it against termites, mould and mildew. There is also a spray-on pipe coating rated ‘gold’ and we were able to feel the PVC-free carpet backing EcoWorx, developed by Shaw Carpet. You can also find compostable environmentally sound upholstery fabrics like Climatex, the use of which is up to the designer as you can see here. Versawall, rigid foamed panels made from 100% polyurethane (for light building construction), also made it into the Cradle to Cradle section alongside Terraskin, a packaging material inspired by egg shell to reduce the use of material.