In the News
baby go green
by Diane E Tretter
as seen in: Greater Philadelphia House & Home, May 2000
The long awaited birth of their first child turned out be a horrendous time for Mona and Joe. During delivery health professionals detected high levels of toxicity in Mona's blood. This complication made her very sick. She had to stay in the hospital, while the baby went home. Her mother had read some literature about harmful toxins that are released during renovation work and painting. She suspected that maybe Mona's problem was due to all the painting and remodeling work they had done in preparation for the new baby. After her illness, Mona educated herself about volatile organic compounds or VOC. What she found out made her determined to change their lifestyles and try "going green."
"Going green" means choosing environmentally friendly methods and products that make the home a safe place for all members of the family. Today, many people are looking for information about the hazardous pollutants in and outside of their homes. They are seeking new products and information to protect their loved ones from harm. If you are planning to paint a room for a new baby or redecorate your home, there are several points to consider besides the colors.
What's in the paint? Most commercial paints today contain toxic chemicals or VOC such as benzene, formaldehyde, mercury, toluene, and glycol's, to name a few. Once these chemicals are released, they can cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. The American Lung Association reports these chemicals will increase respiratory difficulties. Other researchers have found increased risks of miscarriage, fetal distress, and low birth weight as a result of contact with even latex paints because human skin allows the passage of these toxic substances.
Once the vapors are released, where do they go? Researchers have found that a fresh coat of paint releases the highest quantity of vapors in the first four days but then out gases into the curtains, carpets and fabrics over a long period of time. Latex paint, in general, has a lower VOC content than oil-based paint. But still, the VOC in latex are high enough to cause or to contribute to ozone levels according to a report form the Environmental Protection Agency. Also, the EPA notes that ground-level ozone is a major component of smog formed in the atmosphere by the VOC in the presence of sunlight.
There is a solution to this quandary. The alternative is to buy paint with lower or zero VOC. Many manufacturers are answering the demand for low VOC with some new paint lines such as: Sherwin William's HealthSpec, Benjamin Moore's Pristine EcoSpecTM and Glidden's Lifemaster 2000. Michael Masorli, District Sales Manager for Old City Paint and Decorating says "Benjamin Moore's Pristine EcoSpecTM is the same product that I sell to hospitals, healthcare facilities and schools. It contains minimal levels of VOC and meets the most stringent environmental requirements. And because it is fast drying and virtually odorless, it's perfect for kids' rooms."
Another environmentally friendly paint is milk paint. The powder form consists of purified milk protein, natural fillers, pigments and lime. Milk paint's flat and dry finish gives a subtle beauty to unpainted furniture, walls, beams and woodwork. The 13 colors of Real Milk Paint ® of which include Salmon, red and green can be mixed to form other hues and tones. Its history dates back to ancient times and has been frequently used by antique lovers, historians, and craftspeople. Since its composition is non-polluting and non-toxic, it's favorable for children's bedrooms, toys and furniture. Real Milk Paint ® located in Bucks County, PA has claimed its paint will also adhere to porous surfaces or previously painted surfaces. Hobbyists and designers have used its country look on dollhouses, miniatures and stenciled floors and walls. A finished project can be sealed with paste wax, tung oil or flat polyurethane.
The Eco Design Company has developed a collection of natural paints call BioShield paints. They are obtainable through The Natural Choice Catalog. Not only do their products minimize air pollution, and have low VOC, but their ingredients include natural beeswax, citrus peel oils and earth pigments. The aesthetically appealing color of earth pigments enhances their used-friendly satin or gloss enamel paints. Their lines of natural resin floor finishes give a "breathable glossy sheen" to wood floors. For those sensitive to turpentine, their natural citrus paint thinner is a healthy alternative.
Lidos Natural Paints, originated in Germany by teachers of disabled children, is a good non-toxic paint choice. Their interior and exterior wood stain acts like a moisturizer that penetrates the surface. This company claims, since the stain is added thinly, that it doubles the coverage of conventional paint. For boldness or subtly, these stains come in an appealing array of colors from Capri blue to English red to ultramarine blue, and rosewood. They will assuredly enhance the beauty of your home. For the finish project, a sealant called Geivo Beeswax, and alternative to polyurethane, can be utilized.
Before purchasing any kind of paint, calculate the amount that's needed and function of its application. Retail distributors will gladly accommodate you. Follow the label instructions carefully and always paint in a well-ventilated area. Manufactures of biodegradable paint inform us that their leftover paint can be thrown out with the household trash. Otherwise, check the label for the proper disposal of other paints.
Painting has become more popular as a vehicle to express one's creativity in interior design. Notably, it reflects the uniqueness of our individuality. The catchword "going green" expresses our concern for the health and safety for our loved ones and the environment. Next time you're in the market for paint, try "going green".
Web Sites:
Lidos Paints:
www.livos.com
www.icipaintstores.com
Natural Choice Catalog:
http://stores.yahoo.com/natchoice
Real Milk Paint ®:
www.realmilkpaint.com
EPA:
www.epa.gov
www.greenseal.org
Benjamin More:
www.benjaminmoore.com