Choosing Low VOC Paints for Healthier Indoor Air Quality in Melbourne

Do you want to create a healthier indoor environment for you and your loved ones? Have you considered the impact of paint on your indoor air quality? It’s time to challenge the common belief that all paints are the same when it comes to air pollution. We have the answer to your questions right here in Melbourne.

Indoor air pollution is a significant concern, with paints being a major contributor. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in paints release harmful chemicals into the air, leading to various health issues. But did you know that the paint industry in Australia is responsible for 16% of all VOC emissions?

Choosing low VOC paints is the key to improving indoor air quality. Not only do these paints emit fewer odours, but they also have faster drying times and non-yellowing properties. If you want to create a healthier and safer indoor environment, it’s time to make the switch.

In this article, we will explore the health and environmental impacts of VOCs in paints, the benefits of low VOC paints for indoor air quality, and introduce you to eight low or zero VOC paints available in Australia. Are you ready to make a positive change for the well-being of your family and the planet? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

Choosing low VOC paints can significantly improve indoor air quality
Low VOC paints emit fewer harmful chemicals and odors
The paint industry in Australia is responsible for 16% of all VOC emissions
Eight low or zero VOC paints are available in Australia
By making the switch to low VOC paints, you can create a healthier and safer indoor environment

The Health Impacts of VOCs in Paints

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in paints can have various health impacts, ranging from mild symptoms like headaches and dizziness to more severe consequences such as kidney damage and cancer. When it comes to indoor air quality, VOCs are a significant concern as studies have shown that 70% of toxins absorbed into the body come from the air we breathe indoors. The paint industry in Australia is responsible for 16% of all VOC emissions, contributing to indoor air pollution.

To protect our health and reduce the risk of these health impacts, it is crucial to choose low or zero VOC paints. These paints emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air, making them a safer option for indoor use. By opting for low VOC paints, we can minimize our exposure to harmful substances and create a healthier living environment.

70% of toxins absorbed into the body come from the air we breathe indoors.

Health Impact	Consequences
Mild Symptoms	Headaches, dizziness
Severe Consequences	Kidney damage, cancer

Choosing low VOC paints is a proactive step towards reducing indoor air pollution and safeguarding our well-being. Let’s prioritize our health by opting for paints that emit fewer VOCs.

The Environmental Impact of VOC Emissions from Paints

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) emitted by the paint industry have a significant environmental impact, contributing to the formation of ground-level ozone and urban smog. In Australia, the paint industry is responsible for 16% of all VOC emissions, making it a key contributor to air pollution and its detrimental effects on ecosystems. VOCs released into the air by paints can harm plants, animals, and aquatic life, leading to reduced biodiversity and ecological imbalances.

By choosing low or zero VOC paints, we can actively reduce the environmental impact of the paint industry and contribute to cleaner air and a healthier planet. Low VOC paints emit fewer harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, minimizing the formation of ground-level ozone and helping to combat air pollution. These environmentally-friendly paints also help to preserve ecosystems and mitigate the negative effects of VOC emissions on plant and animal life.

“By choosing low VOC paints, we can actively reduce the environmental impact of the paint industry and contribute to cleaner air and a healthier planet.”

To further emphasize the importance of reducing VOC emissions, let’s take a look at the following table:

Paint Brand	VOC Content	Environmental Certifications
Eco Style Paints by Rockcote	Zero VOC	GECA certified
Ecolour Paints	Zero VOC	GECA and GBCA approved
Volvox Clay Paint	Low VOC	Ecoflower label
Taubmans Pure Performance Range	Low VOC	Approved by National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program

This table highlights some of the popular low and zero VOC paint brands that offer environmentally-friendly options. These paints have undergone rigorous certification processes and meet strict environmental standards, ensuring that they have minimal impact on air quality and ecosystems.

It is our collective responsibility to choose paints that prioritize the health of both the environment and ourselves. By opting for low VOC paints, we can play an active role in reducing VOC emissions, promoting sustainable practices in the paint industry, and safeguarding the beauty and integrity of our natural surroundings.

The Benefits of Low VOC Paints for Indoor Air Quality

When it comes to indoor air quality, choosing low VOC paints can have significant advantages. These paints, which contain low levels of volatile organic compounds, offer multiple benefits that contribute to a healthier living environment.

Emit fewer odours: Low VOC paints have reduced levels of off-gassing compared to traditional paints. This means they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, resulting in improved indoor air quality. The lower odour levels also make these paints a more pleasant option for those with sensitivity to strong smells.
Faster drying times: Low VOC paints typically have faster drying times, allowing you to return to a freshly painted space sooner. This reduces the amount of time you and your family are exposed to potentially harmful chemicals, promoting a safer environment.
Non-yellowing properties: One common issue with traditional paints is that they may yellow over time, especially in areas exposed to sunlight. However, low VOC paints are formulated to have non-yellowing properties, ensuring that the paint maintains its original colour and appearance for longer.

By opting for low VOC paints, you can create a healthier indoor environment and mitigate the risk of respiratory issues and other health problems associated with indoor air pollution. These paints are a responsible choice that prioritizes the well-being of your family and reduces the impact on the environment.

Benefits of Low VOC Paints:

Benefit	Description
Improved Indoor Air Quality	Low VOC paints emit fewer harmful chemicals, reducing indoor air pollution and creating a healthier living space.
Faster Drying Times	Low VOC paints dry more quickly, minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals and reducing downtime in painted areas.
Non-Yellowing Properties	Low VOC paints maintain their original colour and appearance over time, avoiding the yellowing issue common with traditional paints.

Choosing low VOC paints is not only a responsible choice for your family’s health, but it also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. By prioritizing indoor air quality with low VOC paints, we can create a comfortable and safe environment for ourselves and future generations.

Eight Low or Zero VOC Paints Available in Australia

When it comes to eco-friendly and sustainable home improvement, choosing low VOC paint brands is a smart choice. These paints offer non-toxic alternatives that are better for both your health and the environment. In Australia, there are several reputable brands to consider:

Eco Style Paints by Rockcote: Accredited by various environmental organizations, Eco Style Paints are known for their high-quality and sustainable formulations.
Ecolour Paints: With their water-based and VOC-free formulas, Ecolour Paints are a popular choice for those looking for environmentally friendly options.
Volvox Clay Paint: Made from natural clay, Volvox Clay Paint offers a healthy living environment while providing a variety of decorative effects.
Taubmans Pure Performance Range: This range of paints includes low VOC options that are durable, washable, and approved by the National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program.
Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat: Ideal for achieving a level 5 finish on interior surfaces, this paint range saves time and provides a professional result.
Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free: With low odour and washability, Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free offers a smooth and tough surface for interior works.
Porter’s Mineral Paint: Known for their high-quality mineral-based paints, Porter’s Mineral Paint offers a range of environmentally friendly options.
Mythic Paint Exterior Flat: This zero VOC paint is a great choice for exterior applications, providing excellent coverage and durability.

These low or zero VOC paint brands are suitable for both interior and exterior applications. They provide durability, easy application, and excellent coverage, ensuring a greener and healthier home environment. By choosing these sustainable options, you can make a positive impact on your indoor air quality and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Why Choose Eco Style Paints by Rockcote

When it comes to choosing paint for high traffic environments such as child care centres, schools, hospitals, and public buildings, Eco Style Paints by Rockcote stands out as an excellent choice. These paints are not only non-toxic but also have zero VOCs, making them safe for the health and well-being of both occupants and the environment.

Made from 100% acrylic, Eco Style Paints offer exceptional durability and low maintenance. They adhere better and have superior abrasive scrub resistance compared to other paints in the market. This means that the painted surfaces will remain vibrant and fresh-looking even in high traffic areas, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups or repainting.

What sets Eco Style Paints apart is their commitment to sustainability. These paints are free from dangerous chemicals and solvents, making them a sustainable choice for building materials. By opting for Eco Style Paints, you can contribute to creating greener and healthier indoor environments while minimizing the environmental impact of your painting projects.

Eco Style Paints by Rockcote are the perfect solution for those seeking a non-toxic and environmentally friendly paint that doesn’t compromise on performance. With their zero VOC formulation and dedication to sustainability, Eco Style Paints exemplify the future of sustainable building materials.

The Benefits of Ecolour Paints

When it comes to choosing paint for your home or commercial project, Ecolour Paints offers a range of benefits that make it an excellent choice. As a premium quality water-based paint brand, Ecolour Paints is committed to providing a safe and eco-friendly option for painting.

One of the standout features of Ecolour Paints is that it is 100% free of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs are chemicals found in many conventional paints that can be harmful to both human health and the environment. By opting for Ecolour Paints, you can create a healthier indoor environment for yourself and your loved ones.

Ecolour Paints is accredited by Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA), an independent, not-for-profit organization that certifies products and services. This certification ensures that Ecolour Paints meets stringent environmental and health standards, giving you peace of mind that you are making a sustainable choice for your painting project.

Furthermore, Ecolour Paints is recognized by The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) for assessing Green Star projects. The GBCA is a leading authority on sustainable buildings and communities, and their recognition of Ecolour Paints speaks to its commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Whether you need paint for interior, exterior, or timber finishes, Ecolour Paints has you covered. Their water-based paints offer durability, easy application, great coverage, and color matching options, ensuring a high-quality finish for your project.

It’s worth noting that Ecolour Paints has been used in award-winning sustainable projects, further demonstrating its credibility and effectiveness. By choosing Ecolour Paints, you can align your project with best practices in sustainable home improvement.

“Ecolour Paints offers a safe and eco-friendly option for painting, providing peace of mind without compromising on quality or performance.”

Why Choose Ecolour Paints:

100% free of VOCs, promoting healthier indoor air quality
Accredited by Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA)
Recognized by The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA)
Suitable for interior, exterior, and timber finishes
Durable and easy to apply
Great coverage and color matching options

Brand	VOC Content	Accreditations	Application
Ecolour Paints	0 VOC	Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA), Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA)	Interior, exterior, and timber finishes
Brand 2	X VOC	Accreditation 2	Application 2
Brand 3	Y VOC	Accreditation 3	Application 3

Ecolour Paints offers a safe and eco-friendly option for painting, providing peace of mind without compromising on quality or performance. Choose Ecolour Paints for a beautiful finish that benefits both your home and the environment.

The Advantages of Volvox Clay Paint

Volvox Clay Paint is a high-performance natural clay paint that offers several advantages for environmentally conscious homeowners. Made from natural clay in an ecologically sustainable manner, this paint provides a healthy living environment while minimizing its impact on the planet.

One of the standout features of Volvox Clay Paint is its zero VOC formulation. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are harmful chemicals found in many conventional paints that can contribute to indoor air pollution and have negative health effects. By choosing Volvox Clay Paint, you can eliminate these harmful chemicals from your home, helping to create a safer and cleaner environment for you and your family.

In addition to its eco-friendly composition, Volvox Clay Paint offers a variety of decorative effects thanks to its natural clay properties. Whether you prefer a smooth finish or a textured look, this paint can help you achieve your desired aesthetic. Its versatility makes it suitable for both interior walls and ceilings.

While Volvox Clay Paint may be slightly more expensive than acrylic paint, it delivers high performance with an environmental conscience. It has earned the prestigious Ecoflower label, which recognizes products that meet strict environmental standards without compromising on quality or durability. By choosing Volvox Clay Paint, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re selecting a sustainable and high-quality option for your painting needs.

With Volvox Clay Paint, you can transform your living space while minimizing the impact on your health and the environment.

Key Advantages of Volvox Clay Paint:

Natural clay composition
Zero VOC formulation
Healthy living environment
Versatile decorative effects
Ecoflower label for high performance with environmental consideration

Advantages	Details
Natural Composition	Made from natural clay in an ecologically sustainable manner
Zero VOC Formulation	Free from harmful volatile organic compounds, reducing indoor air pollution
Healthy Living Environment	Creates a safer and cleaner environment for you and your family
Versatile Decorative Effects	Offers a variety of decorative effects for interior walls and ceilings
Ecoflower Label	Recognized for high performance with environmental consideration

The Features of Taubmans Pure Performance Range

Taubmans Pure Performance Range is a 100% acrylic, high-performance, water-based paint formulated specifically for interior surfaces. We understand that maintaining a clean and safe environment is of utmost importance, which is why Taubmans Pure Performance Range is designed with your health and wellbeing in mind. Let’s delve into its remarkable features.

Antibacterial Protection

One standout feature of Taubmans Pure Performance Range is its built-in Microban technology, offering an added layer of protection against harmful bacteria, mildew, mold, and fungus. This innovative antibacterial protection prevents the growth and spread of these microorganisms on painted surfaces, making your home healthier and safer.

Low VOC and Odor Formula

At Taubmans, we recognize the importance of reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to minimize their impact on indoor air quality. That’s why our Pure Performance Range boasts a low VOC and odor formula. By choosing Taubmans, you can enjoy painting your interior spaces with peace of mind, knowing that you are minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals.

Scruff Resistant and Highly Washable

We understand that busy households can be prone to scuffs and stains. That’s why Taubmans Pure Performance Range is designed to be scruff resistant and highly washable. With its durable properties, you can easily clean and maintain the painted surfaces, ensuring that your home looks fresh and pristine for years to come.

National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice Program Approval

We are proud to share that Taubmans Pure Performance Range has been approved by the National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program. This accreditation ensures that our paint is suitable for individuals and families with respiratory sensitivities or allergies. By choosing Taubmans, you can create a safe and comfortable living environment for yourself and your loved ones.

Experience the exceptional features of Taubmans Pure Performance Range and transform your interior spaces into vibrant, healthy, and long-lasting environments.

The Benefits of Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat

When it comes to achieving a flawless finish on interior plasterboards and timbers, Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat is the go-to solution. This premium high film build prepcoat is specially designed to create a level 5 finish, ensuring a smooth and professional result.

One of the standout features of Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat is its ease of sanding. This means that any imperfections in the surface can be easily corrected, allowing for a seamless final appearance.

In addition to its sanding capabilities, this prepcoat also boasts high opacity. This means that it provides excellent coverage, saving both time and money in the painting process.

The Professional Fast Finish range from Dulux doesn’t stop at just prepcoat. It also includes a range of water-based enamels that are suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Whether you’re painting doors, window frames, or trim, these enamels deliver outstanding results.

What sets Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat and its water-based enamels apart is their commitment to sustainability. These products meet the Green Building Council of Australia’s target for doors, windows, and trim, ensuring that your painting projects are environmentally friendly.

With the time-saving and professional finish they offer, the Dulux Professional Fast Finish range is the ideal choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional painters.

Features	Benefits
High film build prepcoat	Creates a level 5 finish on interior plasterboards and timbers
Easy to sand	Allows for seamless surface correction
High opacity	Provides excellent coverage, saving time and money
Water-based enamels	Suitable for interior and exterior doors, window frames, and trim
Meets Green Building Council of Australia’s target	Environmentally friendly option for painting projects

The Features of Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free

Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free is a low odour paint that provides a smooth and tough surface. It has no unwanted VOCs and is available in a range of tones. This paint is suitable for interior works and has a controlled low-angle sheen to minimize substrate imperfections. As the paint hardens, its washability improves. Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free is approved by Environmental Choice and offers a durable and environmentally friendly option for interior painting projects.

This low odour paint is a top choice for interior works. Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free not only delivers a smooth and tough finish but is also free from unwanted VOCs, making it a healthier choice for indoor painting projects. Its availability in a range of tones allows for creative expression while ensuring an aesthetically pleasing result.

When it comes to minimizing substrate imperfections, Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free shines with its controlled low-angle sheen. This feature ensures that imperfections on the surface are less noticeable, resulting in a flawless appearance. Whether it’s a residential or commercial space, this paint offers a professional finish with long-lasting durability.

One of the standout attributes of Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free is its washability. As the paint cures and hardens over time, its washability improves, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance. This feature is particularly beneficial for high-traffic areas or spaces prone to dirt and stains.

Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free bears the Environmental Choice approval, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By choosing this paint, you can be confident that you are contributing to a greener and healthier planet.

Conclusion

Choosing low VOC paints is crucial for improving indoor air quality and reducing the health and environmental impacts of paints. Low VOC paints emit fewer harmful chemicals, contribute to better indoor air quality, and have sustainability benefits.

In Melbourne, where weather conditions can lead to increased indoor humidity levels, maintaining good air quality is essential. By selecting low VOC paints, such as Eco Style Paints by Rockcote, Ecolour Paints, Volvox Clay Paint, Taubmans Pure Performance Range, Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat, Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free, Porter’s Mineral Paint, and Mythic Paint Exterior Flat, we can create healthier and more sustainable living spaces in Melbourne and beyond.

By prioritizing low VOC paints, we not only promote eco-friendly paint options but also support sustainable home improvement. These paints not only provide a safer environment for our families and communities but also reduce the environmental impact of the paint industry and contribute to a healthier planet.

So, when it comes to making choices for our homes, let’s opt for low VOC paints and make a positive impact on indoor air quality, our health, and the environment.

FAQ

What are the health impacts of VOCs in paints?

VOCs in paints can have various health impacts, ranging from mild symptoms like headaches and dizziness to more severe consequences such as kidney damage and cancer.

How do paints contribute to indoor air pollution?

Paints are a major contributor to indoor air pollution, accounting for up to 70% of the toxins absorbed into the body. The paint industry in Australia is responsible for 16% of all VOC emissions.

What are the benefits of low VOC paints for indoor air quality?

Low VOC paints emit fewer odours, have faster drying times, and offer non-yellowing properties, which improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory issues and other health problems associated with indoor air pollution.

What are some low or zero VOC paint brands available in Australia?

Some low or zero VOC paint brands available in Australia include Eco Style Paints by Rockcote, Ecolour Paints, Volvox Clay Paint, Taubmans Pure Performance Range, Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat, Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free, Porter’s Mineral Paint, and Mythic Paint Exterior Flat.

Why choose Eco Style Paints by Rockcote?

Eco Style Paints by Rockcote are non-toxic and zero VOC paints that are suitable for high traffic environments. They offer exceptional durability and low maintenance, making them a safe and sustainable choice for sustainable building materials.

What are the benefits of Ecolour Paints?

Ecolour Paints are 100% free of VOCs and are accredited by Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) and recognized by The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). They offer durability, easy application, great coverage, and color matching, making them a safe and eco-friendly option for painting.

What are the advantages of Volvox Clay Paint?

Volvox Clay Paint is made from natural clay and provides a healthy living environment. It is odorless, has zero VOC, and offers a variety of decorative effects. This paint is an excellent choice for those who are chemically sensitive or concerned about indoor air quality.

What are the features of Taubmans Pure Performance Range?

Taubmans Pure Performance Range is a 100% acrylic, high-performance, water-based paint with antibacterial protection. It is scruff resistant, highly washable, and approved by the National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program, making it a safe and durable option for interior painting projects.

What are the benefits of Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat?

Dulux Professional Fast Finish Level 5 Prep Coat is a premium high film build prepcoat designed to create a level 5 finish on interior surfaces. It is easy to sand and has high opacity, offering a time-saving and professional solution for painting projects.

What are the features of Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free?

Resene Zylone Sheen VOC Free is a low odour paint that provides a smooth and tough surface. It has no unwanted VOCs, a controlled low-angle sheen, and improved washability as it hardens. It offers a durable and environmentally friendly option for interior painting projects.

Why should I choose low VOC paints for better indoor air quality in Melbourne?

Choosing low VOC paints is crucial for improving indoor air quality, especially in Melbourne where weather conditions can lead to increased indoor humidity levels. Low VOC paints emit fewer harmful chemicals and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable living space.