"Most paint is made from petrochemicals, and its
manufacturing process can create 10 times its own weight in toxic
waste. It also releases volatile organic compounds (V.O.C.'s) that
threaten public health. (V.O.C.'s are solvents that rapidly evaporate,
allowing paint to dry quickly.) They cause photochemical reactions in
the atmosphere, leading to ground-level smog that can cause eye and
skin irritation, lung and breathing problems, headaches, nausea, and
nervous-system and kidney damage. The best alternative? Natural paints.
Manufactured using plant oils, natural paints pose far fewer health
risks, are breathable, and in some cases are 100 percent biodegradable.
Remember: Never throw your paint away. Check out Earth 911's "Paint
Wise" section for re-use programs in your community; earth911.org."
Source:
Vanity Fair: Fifty Ways to Help Save the Planet
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