Ways to Reduce Pollution Through Green Paint

Eco-friendly paints reduce pollution.

The right paint can add a personal touch to a wall, bring new life to old furniture, and inspire the budding artist to create a masterpiece. However, traditional paints can be harmful to the earth and your health. Using green, eco-friendly paints can help you express your personality while cutting down on pollution, reducing your carbon footprint and creating a cleaner environment.

Water-Based

One of the easiest ways to cut down on pollution is to choose water-based paints over oil-based paints. Unlike many oil-based paints, water-based paints are not made with petroleum, which emits the harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.

Low to No VOCs

Shop for paints with low or no VOCs. Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, are solvents commonly found in traditional paints. These solvents are released into the air as toxic gases, causing high levels of indoor air pollution and contributing to outdoor smog. VOCs are also commonly linked to health risks, including asthma and cancer. Using low or no-VOC paints can eliminate the release of toxic gases, keeping the air clean and healthy.

Recycled

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than 69 million gallons of paint are left over annually in the United States. This unused paint can end up in landfills, and can contaminate water systems and soil. Purchasing recycled paint over traditional paint can cut down on landfill waste, conserve natural resources and save energy.

All-Natural

All-natural paints are made with renewable, earth-friendly materials such as clay, milk, beeswax and plant oils, thus consuming less energy. While natural paints are more difficult to find, their use cuts down on carbon dioxide and other pollutants, especially when the ingredients are organically and locally grown.

The Future

Scientists around the world are developing new kinds of paints that not only prevent future pollution, but also reduce existing pollution. Solar reflective paint, when used on roofs and walls, has been found to reduce the need to turn up home heating or air conditioning. European scientists have also been working on developing a photocatalytic paint that can clean and sterilize the air from bacteria and irritants.

References

• California's Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle): Recycled Latex Paint
• "Deutsche Welle"; Czech Company Produces Air-Cleansing Paint; Rob Cameron; November 2010
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Cool Roof Coatings Incorporating Glass Hollow Microspheres
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Paint and Coatings