New Delhi: Demand for eco-friendly paint products is rising in residential renovation projects as homeowners increasingly prioritise indoor air quality and sustainable materials while repainting homes.
A report from a local painting contractor in Bonney Lake, Washington, highlighted a noticeable increase in requests for low-VOC and zero-VOC paints, particularly among families renovating living spaces and nurseries. The shift signals growing awareness about the potential health impact of traditional paints that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into indoor environments.
VOCs are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and can contribute to poor indoor air quality after paint application. Exposure can cause symptoms ranging from headaches and dizziness to respiratory irritation, prompting many homeowners to opt for paints with significantly lower VOC levels.
The change in consumer behaviour is altering how painting services are delivered. Customers are increasingly asking contractors about paint composition, environmental certifications such as Green Seal or Greenguard Gold, and the health implications of different coating formulations.
Advances in paint technology have also helped accelerate the shift. Earlier eco-friendly paints were sometimes criticised for reduced durability, but newer water-based acrylic formulations now offer comparable resistance to wear, moisture and cleaning while maintaining lower chemical emissions.
The growing preference for sustainable coatings mirrors broader trends across the global paints industry, where manufacturers are investing in low-VOC, water-based and environmentally compliant products to meet stricter regulations and evolving consumer expectations.
The trend is likely to continue as homeowners become more conscious of indoor environmental quality, potentially reshaping product development and marketing strategies in the paints and coatings sector.