PAINT RECYCLING
Many people store gallons of extra paint in their households.
This stockpiled paint could be harmful if not managed
properly and can be reused, recycled, or donated.
Depending on when the paint was produced, it could
contain toxic chemicals or metals, which should be treated as
hazardous household waste.
Latex paint is the most commonly used paint for the interior
and exterior decoration of homes.
Other types of paints include oil-based paints for
lacquering or varnish, art paint, and aerosol sprays.
Most paint is
made up of a resin, solvent, pigment and additives.
1.
Using acrylic,
linseed, or other synthetic material, resin coats the wall with
a film that enables the paint to stay in place.
2.
Paints are
applied as liquids until their solvents, such as water, toluene,
and xylene, evaporate.
3.
Pigments give
paints their color and can contain titanium, iron oxide, clay,
or sulfates.
4.
Other additives
may be used for various purposes, such as thickening the paint,
increasing drying time, and preventing mold build up.
ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS
1.
If improperly
disposed of, paint can pollute groundwater and disrupt the
sewage treatment process.
2.
Paint can harm
fish and other wildlife if it enters storm drains or other
bodies of water.
3.
Paint will
contaminate other recyclable materials if mixed with household
garbage.
4.
Paint can
irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs and cause nausea or
headaches.
BENEFITS OF RECYCLING
PAINT
1.
Recycled paint
is available in comparable grades and colors of newly produced
paint. Recycled
paint is often sold at a lower price.
2.
Recycled paint
can be mixed with thickening and anti-mildew additives that give
it the same usability as new paint.
3.
Depending on
location, latex paint is treated as a household hazardous waste,
necessitating special disposal.
Recycling and reusing paint in these areas is a more
convenient and responsible option.
4.
In locations
where paint is not restricted as a hazardous waste, leftover
paint takes up landfill space, despite remaining a usable
product.
RECYCLED PAINT PROCESS
1.
Recycled paint
is first filtered to remove any solids.
2.
Filtered paint
is usually mixed with new white paint, creating a mix made of 50
percent recycled content.
3.
Pigments are
added to the recycled paint mix to achieve desired color.
4.
Additives are
mixed in to restore old, recycled paint to a stable pH level.
RESPONSIBLE WASTE
MANAGEMENT
1.
Before
purchasing new latex paint, carefully calculate the amount you
will need to avoid waste.
Ask retailers their return policy on unused, unopened
paint cans.
2.
Practice safe
cleaning of paintbrushes and applicators.
Paint accessories that are cleaned in the street or in a
backyard could contaminate soil or storm water.
3.
Purchase
recycled paint if available, and locate processors who recycle
unused latex paint.
4.
Some areas and
states restrict the disposal of paint into the municipal waste
stream. If you are
allowed to dispose of paint with household trash, dry small
amounts by mixing it with kitty litter or pouring it in layers
into a lined box.
5.
Donate latex
paint to local schools, churches, or charities.
These organizations may use paint for projects or small
renovations for those in need.
6.
Inquire about
any local paint exchanges that accept and
give away unwanted paint.
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