VOC-Free Paint
VOC-free paint doesn't pollute, doesn't stink, and is more and more available.
Photo from Flickr by Napalm Filled Tires
We recently had some painting done in our office, and I was astounded at the different experiences between the primer paint and color we added. The primer was stinky and kind of gave me a headache. On the other hand, I couldn't smell the color at all.
Turns out paint is full of pollutants that we can inhale—volatile organic chemicals (VOC) and other toxins that can cause cancer are common in everyday paints. VOCs are of particular importance because the paint can continue to give off these chemicals months, even years, after the paint has dried.
Luckily, paint manufacturers are now offering low-VOC and VOC-free paints. If you look for the Green Seal label on your paint, you can be assured that the paint is low VOC and free of other toxins that you may not want in your home. In Idaho, Home Depot and Sherwin Williams have low-VOC and VOC-free options. There are probably others as well. If you find a store with a great selection, let me know.
We are exposed to so many chemicals in our environment—car smog, pollution from factories—and it is nice to know you have one more opportunity to reduce toxins in your home.
Sara Cohn
Community Conservation Associate
