Why I only use eco-friendly paint
Why I only use eco-friendly paint
July 10, 2024
As a creative interior designer, I love paint!
I love the fact that it is a relatively inexpensive way of transforming a space, I love the creativity, how it offers the ability to customize spaces, making them personal and reflective of your individual taste and style, and the different finishes that a skilled painter and decorator can achieve. I love how different colours and finishes can influence the mood of a space, making it more welcoming, calming, or energizing.
I advise my clients to use eco friendly paint, they have been around for over 30 years, and give a beautiful soft finish. To me, it is a no brainer, but, I feel that some people are still resistant to the idea, even though there is substantial scientific evidence supporting the benefits. I thought I would outline some of the benefits below.
Health Benefits
Traditional paints often contain high levels of VOCs, (volatile organic compounds) which are chemicals that can evaporate into the air and cause health problems such as headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues, and even long-term effects like liver and kidney damage. Eco-friendly paints are VOC free or virtually VOC free.
Studies have shown that VOCs from traditional paints can contribute to poor indoor air quality, leading to the phenomenon known as "sick building syndrome" where occupants experience acute health effects linked to time spent in a building. Eco-friendly paints improve indoor air quality by minimizing the release of harmful chemicals.
Eco-friendly paints avoid common allergens and irritants found in traditional paints, which makes them a better choice for sensitive individuals, including those with asthma or allergies.
Environmental Impact
The production and application of traditional paints release VOCs and other pollutants into the environment, contributing to air pollution and the formation of ground-level ozone, a key component of smog. Eco-friendly paints reduce these emissions, thereby mitigating their environmental impact.
Eco-friendly paints are made from natural, renewable resources, and biodegradable materials. This reduces reliance on non-renewable resources and decreases the environmental footprint of paint production.
Lifecycle Analysis
Eco-friendly paints are formulated to avoid toxic substances such as heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates, which can cause significant environmental and health problems throughout their lifecycle, from production to disposal.
Traditional paints can pose disposal challenges and environmental hazards when they enter landfills or waterways. Eco-friendly paints are designed to be less harmful upon disposal, reducing the risk of soil and water contamination.
Advances in eco-friendly paint formulations have resulted in products that offer comparable, if not superior, performance and durability to traditional paints. They provide good coverage, longevity, and resistance to common problems like mould and mildew without relying on harmful chemicals.