Water-based, also known as acrylic emulsions or solvent-based, paints are the two main types. Water-based paints are not only a great choice for their overall performance, but they’re also good from an environmentally friendly perspective. Article source!

Paints based on solvents are the traditional paint type. However, they require caution from the user to prevent any damage to the surrounding environment.

Paints based on solvents can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are substances that easily evaporate into the atmosphere to produce invisible vapours.

Solvents in paints evaporate and release VOCs to the air. In the presence of sunshine, VOCs combine with oxygen to produce ozone.

The difference between “good” and “bad” Ozone is crucial.

The “good” ozone is found in the stratosphere, about 10 to 35 kilometres from the earth’s surface. It protects plants, animals, and people from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

The “bad” ozone is formed at the ground’s level by the chemical reaction of VOCs with oxygen and sunlight. It is an irritating agent for mucous tissues. This ozone can cause irritations to the nose, eyes, throat, and lungs. It may also lead to asthmatic symptoms, shortness of breathe, coughing and other respiratory problems.

The “bad” ozone in the lower atmosphere can damage plants, trees and bushes, which has a negative impact on people who depend on nature to support their lives. The ozone has also a damaging effect on man-made products. For example, certain paints are accelerated in their fading and degradation.

VOCs are also responsible for global warming. They play an important role in the greenhouse effect. Some chemically stable VOCs also contribute to the destruction of stratospheric (or “good”) ozone: the hole in the layer.