Paint Pollution – natural paints – Brief Article
Avoiding hazardous chemical substances is a full-time occupation, especially when it coats the walls of homes. Most commercial paints contain hazardous toxins known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). But a growing range of natural paints — made from the kind of ingredients more commonly found in a fridge — are painting the way to more healthy homes. Casein paint is one example; made from milk protein, it comes in a powder that you mix yourself. Other paints use sustainably-harvested tree resin as a binder. Although natural paints can be up to five times more expensive than their chemical counterparts, the results are healthier and longer lasting too. Before you sling out your old paint pots however, spare a thought for the toxins leaching into your local landfill. To deal with this problem, Leeds-based recycling company SWAP coordinates community paint recycling schemes where half-finished paint pots are distributed to local voluntary groups and community organisations. Natural Paint S uppliers: Auto Organic Paints, tel: 01799 584 888. Livos Natural Paints, tel: 01952 883288, Liz Induni Traditional Paints, tel: 01929 423776. Nutshell Natural Paints, tel: 01364 642892. SWAP, tel: 0113 243 8777.
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