Paints, varnishes and woodstains often contain solvents, which are used in the manufacturing process to keep the products in a liquid state. Oil-based paints in particular contain hazardous chemicals including heavy metals.
suggest:
Try natural pigment plant based paints which are as effective as normal paints and do not contain toxic substances. Manufacturers of plant-based eco-paints say that waste paint can be composted and biodegrades easily. Available from selected DIY/decorating shops or by mail order. See Mail Order Catalogues.
recycle:
The Borders-based TRASH Music Project accepts donations of usable paint. See Donations of Materials for Arts and Crafts.
Berwickshire Furniture Restoration Co. Ltd. collects unwanted paint and redistribute it to community groups and individuals throughout Berwickshire and the Scottish Borders: Tel: 01361 884 886, Website: www.bfr.freeuk.com.
The following organisation accepts paint for arts projects:
| Alchemy Arts | |
| Tel: | 0131 228 9580 |
| Email: | alchemyarts@gmail.com |
| Website: | www.alchemyarts.co.uk |
avoid:
Never pour paint down drains.