by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024Table of Contents
Greening up your home is easier than you think. When it's time for a new coat of paint, choose an eco-friendly option. Conventional paints are full of volatile organic compounds that pollute the air and harm the environment. You don't have to sacrifice quality or style to go green. There are sustainable paint brands that offer vibrant colors and durable finishes without the toxic chemicals.
What Is Eco-Friendly Paint?
Eco-friendly paint, also known as sustainable or green paint, is made from natural, non-toxic ingredients that are better for the environment. Instead of harsh chemicals, these paints use materials like clay, lime, beeswax, and plant oils.
•Low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Conventional paints release harmful vapors called VOCs that can cause headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues. Eco-friendly paints have little to no VOCs, so they don’t pollute the air in your home or the environment.
•Natural, renewable ingredients. Eco-friendly paints use natural materials that are sustainable and renewable like plant oils, clay, lime, and beeswax instead of petroleum-based chemicals. These natural pigments create rich colors without the use of artificial dyes.
•Safe and non-toxic. Eco-friendly paints are non-toxic, so they are safe for people, pets, and the planet. They don’t contain harsh chemicals, artificial dyes, or toxic compounds found in regular paint.
•Recyclable and compostable. Some eco-friendly paints and their containers are recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable. They won’t end up in a landfill, polluting the earth.
•Durable and washable. While eco-friendly paints were once considered inferior, many brands now offer paints that are highly durable, scrubbable, and stain-resistant. They provide great coverage and protection for walls and trim.
•Supports healthy indoor air. Using eco-friendly paint helps create a healthy indoor environment. Your home will be free from harsh chemical fumes and toxic off-gassing found with regular paint.
So when it’s time for your next painting project, consider choosing an eco-friendly option. Your health, home, and environment will thank you!
Benefits of Choosing Sustainable Paint Options
Choosing sustainable, eco-friendly paint is better for the environment and your health. These paints are free from toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause headaches, dizziness and other issues.
Benefits of Sustainable Paint
Eco-friendly paint options are safer for the planet. They don’t release harmful fumes that pollute the air or contain toxic metals like lead or mercury. These sustainable paints are made from natural, renewable materials and recycled or reclaimed resources.
Your indoor air quality will improve since there are little to no VOCs or harsh chemicals. This creates a healthier environment for your home and family. Eco-friendly paints also provide good coverage and durability like traditional options. They come in a variety of sheens from flat to glossy.
By choosing sustainable paint, you support companies dedicated to environmentally-friendly practices. Every purchase makes a difference in reducing pollution and the use of non-renewable resources.
Types of Eco-Friendly Paint
Zero-VOC or low-VOC latex or acrylic paints are popular, water-based choices. They contain little to no VOCs and are affordable, easy to apply and clean up. Milk paint is a natural option made from milk protein, lime and pigments. It’s non-toxic, zero-VOC and gives a matte finish.
Natural linseed oil paint is made from renewable flaxseed oil and provides good coverage. Mineral paint comes from natural clays, plants and minerals. It’s naturally mold-resistant and breathable. Both options are eco-friendly but more expensive.
By selecting sustainable paint for your next project, you make an environmental impact through your purchase. Every small change we make together can create a greener future for our communities and planet. Choosing eco-friendly options is worth the investment in our shared home.
Types of Eco-Friendly Paints to Consider
There are several types of eco-friendly paint to consider for your home. Choosing sustainable options not only helps the environment but also improves indoor air quality.
Low-VOC or Zero-VOC Paint
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals found in most conventional paints that release gasses even after the paint has dried. Low-VOC or zero-VOC paints reduce or eliminate these chemicals, producing little to no odor and improving indoor air quality. Popular brands of low-VOC and zero-VOC paint include Benjamin Moore’s Natura, Sherwin Williams’ Harmony, and Behr’s Premium Plus Ultra.
Natural or Organic Paint
Made from natural materials like plant oils, citrus, clay and chalk, natural paints are free from harsh chemicals and toxins. Milk paint and clay paint are popular options that provide an organic finish. However, natural paints typically require a sealant to protect the wall and may need more frequent touch-ups. Top brands include The Real Milk Paint Co. and American Clay.
Recycled Paint
Some paint companies have started recycling unused or leftover paint to reduce waste. They collect unused paint, separate it by color and finish, then reblend and repackage it for resale at a discount. Recycled paint performs like new but at a lower cost to the environment. Major brands that offer recycled paint options include Sherwin Williams, Miller Paint, and Kelly-Moore.
By choosing sustainable, eco-friendly paint for your home, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re using a product that’s safe for both your family and the planet. Every step makes a difference, so do your research and opt for low-VOC, natural, organic or recycled paint whenever possible. Your walls and the environment will thank you.
Low VOC Paints - What You Need to Know
VOC stands for volatile organic compounds. These are chemicals found in many paints that evaporate into the air as the paint dries, polluting indoor air quality. Choosing low or zero-VOC paint is one of the most impactful steps you can take to make your painting project more eco-friendly and sustainable.
Better for the Environment
Low or zero-VOC paints release almost no harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. This is better for the environment as a whole and won’t contribute to smog or ground-level ozone pollution. It also means the paint odor will dissipate much faster after application since there are fewer fumes.
Safer for You and Your Home
VOCs have been linked to various health issues like headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems. By avoiding paints with these chemicals, you'll breathe easier and avoid exposing yourself and your family to toxic compounds. Low-VOC paints are non-toxic, so they won’t release harmful fumes that linger for weeks after painting.
Durable and High-Quality
Don’t think you have to sacrifice quality or durability to go green. Many major paint brands now offer eco-friendly, low-VOC options with performance comparable to traditional paint. They provide great coverage and scrubbability. As technology improves, low-VOC paints are becoming even more durable and long-lasting.
A Few Options
Some of the most popular low-VOC paint brands are Sherwin Williams’ Harmony, Benjamin Moore’s Natura and Aura, Behr Premium Plus Ultra and Valspar Signature. These are available at most major home improvement stores. For the greenest options, look for paints with zero or near-zero VOCs. Whether you need interior or exterior paint, there are sustainable choices for any project.
Going green with your paint choice is an easy way to make a big difference. By selecting low or zero-VOC paint, you'll contribute to a healthier environment, breathe easier in your own home, and still get a high-quality product. For your next painting project, sustainable, eco-friendly paint is the way to go.
Natural Paint Options: Milk, Clay, Limewash
Natural paint options are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional latex or oil-based paints. They are made from renewable, sustainable materials and volatile organic compound (VOC)-free.
Milk Paint
Milk paint is made from milk protein (casein), lime, and pigments. It is non-toxic, durable, and washable. Milk paint has a flat, matte finish and soft, chalky appearance. It is best for walls, trim, and furniture. You mix the powdered milk paint with water and the lime acts as a binder to adhere the paint to surfaces.
- Pros: Natural, VOC-free, durable
- Cons: Requires a sealer, limited color options
Clay Paint
Clay paint is made from clay, chalk, natural pigments, and binders. It is VOC-free, non-toxic and mold-resistant. Clay paint provides an earthy, textured finish. It is ideal for walls, ceilings and trim. You mix the clay paint powder with water. Multiple coats are usually needed for an even color.
- Pros: Breathable, natural, VOC-free
- Cons: Requires primer and sealer, limited colors
Limewash Paint
Limewash paint is made from limestone and water. It is VOC-free, natural and breathable. Limewash paint has a matte, mottled finish. It is often used on brick, stucco, and other masonry surfaces. You mix the limewash powder with water. Multiple thin coats are applied to build up the color.
- Pros: Natural, translucent, breathable
- Cons: Requires maintenance, limited colors
Natural paint options provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paints. Though limited in color options, their natural, VOC-free formulas are better for the environment and your health. With the right primer or sealer, natural paints can provide durable finishes for your walls, trim, ceilings and more.
Recycled and Upcycled Paints
When choosing eco-friendly paint, consider recycled or upcycled options. These paints reuse materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, reducing waste and your carbon footprint.
- Recycled paint uses pigments and binders from reclaimed paint that would have been thrown away. Brands like Ecos Paints and Green Planet Paints offer recycled paints in a variety of sheens and colors.
- Upcycled paint takes reclaimed materials and repurposes them into new paint. For example, brands like Case Study Ceramics and Clare Paint use clay waste from pottery and tile manufacturing to create natural paint pigments. Milk Paint by Real Milk Paint uses casein, a protein found in curdled milk, as a binder. These upcycled paints are non-toxic, zero VOC, and help keep waste out of landfills.
- Some paint brands also take back leftover or unused paint for recycling into new paint. Ask your local paint store if they participate in a paint take-back or recycling program. Every little bit helps when it comes to reusing materials and reducing waste.
When buying recycled or upcycled paint, check if it's certified by a third-party like Green Seal to ensure it meets environmental standards. These sustainable paint options may cost a bit more, but you'll be doing your part to support the circular economy and a greener future for us all. Why not do an easy eco-friendly upgrade and choose paint that's kinder to the planet? Our environment will thank you for it.
Choosing recycled or upcycled paint is one of the simplest ways to make your next painting project more sustainable. Give it a try and see how good it feels to make an impact with such little effort. Your walls will get a fresh new look, and you'll be helping to clean up the planet one gallon at a time.
How to Dispose of Paint Sustainably
Once you’ve finished your eco-friendly painting project, it’s important to properly dispose of any leftover paint. As with choosing sustainable paints, how you handle disposal also has an environmental impact. These tips will help you dispose of paint in an eco-friendly way:
Donate leftovers
If you have leftover paint in good condition, consider donating it to local organizations like Habitat for Humanity, community theaters, youth centers or schools. They may be able to use it for their projects. Just make sure the paint hasn’t been opened yet and still has plenty of shelf life remaining.
Dry out latex paint
For latex or acrylic paint, dry it out completely and then throw it in the trash. Remove the lid and let the paint sit in the can until it’s dried into a solid. This may take weeks or months. You can speed up the process by stirring in cat litter, sawdust or paint hardener and spreading the paint on cardboard, newspapers or paint trays. Once dried, seal the can and dispose of in your regular garbage.
Recycle paint cans
After drying out the paint, many communities offer recycling programs for empty metal and plastic paint cans. Check with your local waste and recycling department to see if they accept empty paint cans. Properly cleaning and recycling the cans helps keep them out of landfills.
Don’t pour it down the drain
Never pour paint down storm drains, in the gutter or on the ground. This includes washing paint brushes in the sink. The chemicals can pollute waterways and the environment. Always dispose of paint and paint products in a responsible manner.
Hazardous waste disposal
For oil-based paints, stains and varnishes, you’ll need to take them to a hazardous waste collection center. Do not throw these in the regular trash. Check with your local waste management department for hazardous waste drop-off locations and schedules. They can properly dispose of the paint in an eco-friendly way.
By following these sustainable practices for handling leftover and waste paint, you can complete your eco-friendly painting project from start to finish. Every step makes a difference in reducing environmental impact. The planet will thank you!
Top Eco-Friendly Paint Brands to Check Out
When it comes to eco-friendly paint, you have many great options to choose from. Several major paint brands now offer sustainable, low-VOC and zero-VOC paints. Here are some of the top eco-friendly paint brands to check out for your next project.
Sherwin-Williams Harmony
Sherwin-Williams’ Harmony interior paint is a zero-VOC, low-odor paint that comes in a variety of sheens. It’s a durable, scrubbable paint that provides great coverage in one coat. Sherwin-Williams also offers the Emerald designer edition of Harmony, which comes in unique, on-trend colors.
Benjamin Moore Natura
Benjamin Moore’s Natura is a premium zero-VOC paint. It comes in over 3,500 colors and a soft matte finish. Natura is Greenguard certified, meaning it meets strict standards for low chemical emissions. It provides great coverage and durability. Benjamin Moore also offers the Aura interior paint, which is low-VOC and comes in a variety of sheens.
PPG Paints Green Promise
PPG Paints’ Green Promise paint is a zero-VOC, low-odor paint. It comes in flat, eggshell and semi-gloss sheens. Green Promise paint is available in over 1,400 colors, provides great coverage in two coats and is scrubbable. PPG Paints is a leader in sustainable paint technologies and also offers the premium Manor Hall Timeless zero-VOC paint.
Behr Premium Plus Ultra
Behr’s Premium Plus Ultra is a zero-VOC, low-odor paint that provides superior coverage in one coat. It comes in flat, satin, semi-gloss and gloss sheens and over 3,500 colors. Premium Plus Ultra is a durable, scrubbable paint that is resistant to stains, scuffs and mildew. It is rated asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Backdrop Paint
Backdrop Paint is an eco-friendly paint brand that offers zero-VOC chalk and clay paints. Their paints are non-toxic, vegan and made from natural materials like limestone, clay and plant-based polymers. Backdrop Paint comes in unique, trendy colors and a matte finish. It provides great coverage in two coats. Backdrop Paint is available online and ships throughout the U.S.
FAQ About Eco-Friendly Painting Solutions Emphasizing Sustainability
Many people have questions about choosing eco-friendly, sustainable paints. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:
What makes a paint “eco-friendly” or “green”?
Eco-friendly paints are made from sustainable, natural materials and produce low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful to the environment and human health. They are non-toxic, chemical-free, and renewable. Some green attributes to look for include:
•Low or no VOCs: These paints release little to no harmful gasses that can cause headaches, dizziness, and other issues. Look for labels like “low-VOC,” “no-VOC,” or “VOC-free.”
•Natural, renewable ingredients: Things like plant oils, citrus, clay, and minerals instead of petroleum. Linseed, sunflower, and soybean oil are common.
•Recyclable packaging: Containers made of recycled materials and that can be recycled again. Some brands take back and reuse paint containers.
•Third-party certification: Labels like Green Seal, EcoLogo and GreenGuard certify the paint meets certain environmental and health standards.
•Minimal waste: Choose paints that can be cleaned up with water instead of solvents. Donate or recycle any leftover paint.
•Durability: While eco-friendly paints have improved greatly, some may not last as long as traditional paints. Check reviews to find durable options.
Do eco-friendly paints cost more?
Eco-friendly paints are often slightly more expensive than conventional paints, but the price difference is decreasing as demand grows and more major brands develop green product lines. The long-term benefits to health and environment can also offset initial costs. You may be able to save by:
•Buying in bulk for larger projects.
•Looking for sales and discounts from retailers promoting sustainability.
•Comparing prices across brands to find affordable options.
•Considering the added value of third-party certifications and brand reputation.
•Calculating potential savings on ventilation, respiratory protection, and hazardous waste disposal.
Are eco-friendly paints as durable and washable as regular paint?
Paint technology and quality continues to improve across the board. While some natural paints may not last quite as long as certain synthetic-based paints, there are now many eco-friendly options that provide excellent durability, coverage, and washability. Be sure to check reviews from reputable sources to determine how well different paints stand up to scrubbing and weathering over time.
Final Thoughts
So now you're armed with knowledge about eco-friendly paint options. You've seen how choosing sustainable paints benefits you, your family, and the planet. Make your next painting project an opportunity to go green. Do some research on low-VOC and zero-VOC paint brands. Check if any are certified by Green Seal or a similar third-party. And don't forget about natural paints like milk paint or limewash for a chemical-free option.
Every small step makes a difference. Choosing eco-friendly paint is an easy change that adds up to big benefits. Our environment will thank you, and you'll feel good knowing your freshly painted walls are not off-gassing harmful chemicals. So pick up that paintbrush and get to work making your space a little greener. The planet will be better for it.