How Ecofriendly Paints Are Also Better for Human Health
Most people are aware of the problem of environmental pollution, and of how the presence of pollutants in our air and water affect the quality of life. They may not know that chemical and organic pollutants can also affect indoor air quality, to the point where it can make the residents and inhabitants of a building sick. Paints, finishes, wood conditioners, cleaners, and furnishings can all contain toxic chemicals that are harmful to people and pets. Non-toxic alternatives do exist, and more and more people are choosing these. These are better for the environment and for the health of the people and pets who inhabit and use the buildings.
How indoor air quality affects the quality of life
Air and water pollution are widely recognized as environmental problems. What many people don’t realize that many household cleaners, paints, varnishes, wood conditioner, and even furnishings can also contain toxic chemicals. Along with organic matter like mold, mildew, and mites, these can all affect indoor air quality to the the extent that it is more polluted than outdoors.
Indoor air pollution can cause health problems for the people who live and work in the buildings. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, rashes, and eve breathing difficulties. Children are especially susceptible to such problems. Many people are now turning to non-toxic alternatives in cleaners, paints, varnishes, and other household products. These are better for people with chemical sensitivities and also for the environment, since they don’t contain any strong chemicals.
Avoiding VOCs and other indoor air pollutants
VOCs or volatile organic compounds are organic chemicals that vaporize easily at normal temperatures. They have been used in conventional paints used for both indoor and outdoor use, such as deck paints and floor paints. They are also found in products like varnishes, finishes, wood conditioners, and even some furnishings. Some VOCs can be harmful to the health of humans and pets. Benzene, which is a VOC, has been identified as a carcinogenic substance. CBC Marketplace reports that VOC concentrations over 500 ppb can affect people with chemical sensitivities.
Many manufacturers now offer low VOC paints, as a healthier and more ecofriendly alternative. These are better for humans and pets, and also for the environment. However, it’s not only chemicals that can contribute to indoor air pollution. Organic matter like mold, mildew, and mites can also build up in buddings, and cause allergies and other health problems. In fact, many organic pollutants have higher concentrations in indoor air than outdoor air.
As indoor air pollution becomes a concern, many paint manufacturers are offering low VOC and latex free paints, varnishes, wood conditioner, and finishes for indoor and outdoor use. These are more ecofriendly, since they don’t contain toxic chemicals. They’re also better for the health of the humans and their pets who live in the buildings where these are used.
