Within sustainability metrics, what includes both recycled and virgin material?

The concept of "Content" in sustainability metrics refers to the composition of materials used in a product or process, which indeed includes both recycled materials and virgin (new) materials. This is crucial for understanding the overall environmental impact of a product, as it helps to assess how much of the material used was sourced from recycled processes versus new resources. By tracking the content, businesses can make informed decisions to increase the proportion of recycled materials, thus promoting sustainability and reducing reliance on virgin resources.

In contrast, "Solid Waste" pertains specifically to materials that are discarded after their useful life, and while it might provide insight into the waste generated, it does not directly pertain to the distinction between recycled and virgin materials. "Material Health" focuses on the safety and toxicity of materials rather than their source or percentage composition. "Sourcing" relates to how materials are obtained, which may not clearly specify whether those materials are recycled or virgin without further context.