Brake pad is an important part of the automobile,among which the tribological performance is the main concern.Traditionally used were asbestos brake pads,later replaced by copper-based material.With the development of brake-lining materials,synthetic friction composites have been explored as an alternative.Research has shown that natural fibers such as banana peel,palm kernel and palm residue can effectively replace the traditional brake pad material.This paper analyzes the main advantages of natural fibers,the life cycle assessment of asbestos materials and natural fibers,the influence of natural fibers on the performance of brake pads,and the manufacture and main characterization of natural composite brake pads.