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There is a recognized increasing global need for plastics that are either biodegradable or have components derived from environmentally renewable resources. In response to this challenge, YTC America Inc., a Yazaki group company, has initiated research into developing new environmentally-friendly plastics for applications in automotive components and consumer products. Two main approaches were used to reduce the consumption of petroleum-based plastics. The first approach attempts to develop composites based on bio-fibers and petroleum polymers. The second approach attempts to develop biopolymer based plastics in order to impart them with desirable properties competitive with the petroleum polymers. Results of these research activities will be reviewed.