In this study, the research status and practical application of frequently used green building materials were surveyed, in addition to a brief analysis of existing problems in the current study. The potential negative effects of existing green building materials were discussed and developing trends in green building materials were forecast. We conclude, in the future development of green building materials, attention should be given across the complete suite of materials used in order to give full play to the advantages of various materials and to make up for any defects in a single material; attention should also be paid to the use of recycled materials to avoid secondary pollution caused by the material substitution; research and development of new materials and new technologies should be encouraged to improve the defects and deficiencies of existing materials used in green buildings.