A decrease in the life expectancy by 8.6 months is envisaged in the European Community, as a consequence of inhalation of particulate matter produced by common human activities. In particular, disadvantages on climate and ecosystems are suspected being a result of the environment pollution. This way, the emissions reduction is an issue of crucial importance. Several attempts to limit the environmental impact have been done during last years in many fields, paying attention to both preparation methods and materials selection (e.g., asbestos phasing out, reduction of the common lubricants in machining, and removal of emerging pollutants from contaminated wastewater).

The addition of nanomaterials to a crystal line or amorphous matrix is a widespread method to adjust some material properties, thus making these materials suitable for specific requirements, ranging from biomedical to superhard coatings applications.

In the case of composites, properties of all the constituents are retained, although they can be enhanced. Conversely, concerning hybrid materials, new properties are obtained as a result of the mixing of more than one constituent.

With the purpose of collecting any important achievement on this crucial topic, this special issue is addressed at reporting the advancements in ecofriendly materials/preparation methods. Papers dealing with the development of synthesis methods used for producing nanocomposites or hybrid materials, with proved or expected reduction of the environmental impact, are welcome, regardless of the kind of precursor or application field. Extended characterization is expected, including the comparison with the features of materials applied in similar fields. In addition, studies focused on the development of novel nanocomposite or hybrid materials, in which starting materials are selected with the purpose to obtain components safer for health, are required. This goal can be achieved (1) by removing constituents of suspected toxicity; (2) by improving some properties that affect the emissions in the air (e.g., wear resistance).

Original, high-quality contributions that are not yet published or that are not currently under review by other journals and also review articles are welcome.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Sustainable process for preparing nanocomposites for harsh environments
• Magnet-sensitive materials for environmental applications
• Biobased materials for advanced technical applications
• Wear resistant nanocomposites for mechanical applications (e.g., brake pads)
• Development of novel nanocomposites for biomedical applications
• Nanocomposite tools for ecofriendly machining