Photos: A future in bioplastics

Behind every manufacturer's attempt to green its supply chain runs software to track ingredients from far-flung sources. New applications help to make sense of databases that may contain millions of points of data about component sources, chemical safety, and environmental laws from around the world.

Dolphin's green product selection software helps companies measure the risks and costs of the chemicals they use. The company's tools help businesses comply with environmental regulations. It can automate the reporting of Materials Safety Data Sheets, for instance.

Enviance is also in the business of helping corporations to green their supply chains. Its Web-based software monitors the emissions and energy usage of oil drilling operations and energy utilities. SC Johnson's Greenlist ratings system has reduced the toxicity of Windex and other popular household cleaning products.