Eco friendly systems

 

VOCS and the environment

Conventional paints can make the air you breathe a chemical cocktail, even long after they have dried, as they continue to release petroleum based solvents, called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) as they cure. It is estimated that each year in Australia more than 60,000 tonnes of VOCs are released into the atmosphere, with the paint industry contributing significantly to this amount. Typical oil-based paint average 350g/L VOCs, or between 35-50% of the paints volume and contain chemicals such as Aliphatic & aromatic hydrocarbons(toluene, xylene), ketones (acetone, methyl ethyl ketone), alcohol (butanol, ethanol), esters (n-propyl acetate, butyl acetate) free monomers, volatile plasticisers, fungicides such as aromatic mercury compounds.

Some major paint manufacturers in Australia still use tints that contain high levels of VOCS. Therefore, GreenPainters advises consumers and specifiers to check what the VOC level is of tinted paint they intend to use. Tinted paint, even of paints labelled 'low-voc', often contain VOC levels over the Green Star Rating System VOC Minimisation credits (IEQ-13/11), which has been compiled from a combination of information from Good Environmental Choice Australia's Architectural Coatings Standard and Table A of Directive 2004/42/CE of the European Parliament.

Even typical water-based acrylics still contain 3-7% solvent content and may include chemicals such as glycol ethylene and propylene, glycol ethers, alcohols, formaldehyde, amines (ammonium hydroxide, amino-2-methyl propanol), monomers, volatile plasticisers, ammonia and fungicides. The VOC content of paint and the CO2 emitted during manufacture are key contributors to environmental impact - primarily in the form of air pollution (petrochemical smog) and to a lesser degree 'greenhouse gases'. In addition VOCs may also trigger respiratory reactions. Low-VOC paints should be specified for exterior applications as well.

Eco Paints - We use and recommend various Low Voc, Anti-Bacterial, Bio plant-based paint to endeavour to help look after the environment.

We are accredited Green Painters

McNaught Group are licensed accredited Green Painters. A Green Painter:

  • Uses waste-water minimization techniques and technology to protect your garden

  • Is qualified and trained to advise clients on which eco-preferable paints to use for their project and is sensitive to the needs of allergy sufferers

  • Has required licenses, insurances and adheres to an Environmental Code of Practice

  • Uses Environmental Management to reduce waste

  • Understands natural paints

  • Will save you money, and can help you cut carbon emissions

  • Will give you accurate, unbiased advice.

Painting is an important part of keeping your building 'green'. It preserves and protects building materials, extending the life of the building. However, paints, lacquers and varnishes are among the chemical everyday products that have a particularly distinct effect on environment and health.

New paint technology can also help you increase the energy efficiency of your building, cutting up to 50% off your air conditioning costs, and offsetting carbon emissions. An Accredited Green Painter is qualified and trained to advise you on how to make the best choice for your project.

More information on Green Painters.

If you would like some more information on how we at McNaught Group remain environmentally friendly just give as a call and ask our friendly team.