Why Important
Debate rages about the environmental impact of the many different types of paint.
What to look for
Water-borne paints may seem better, as they use water as a solvent; but they use synthetic petrochemical binders.
Even so-called ‘eco-friendly’ paints may have hidden costs or disadvantages.
When to look
How to fix
If any simple guidance can be given, it is to use externally, paints or coatings such as limewash that allow older buildings ‘to breathe’ – to give up or take in moisture gradually – and internally to use low VOC water-borne paints rather than high VOC oil- based paints.