Wallcoverings: What's Green, What's Not

Proceed with Caution Proceed with caution is the sole category for wall coverings, as virtually every type of wall covering can be either eco-friendly or not. For example, cork is wonderful—as long as the adhesive used to mount it is non-toxic. Paint manufacturers are known to be among the worst polluters—yet there are now safe, non-toxic paints available. There are some exceptions, however. Clay is one hundred percent environmentally safe and abundant and actually improves indoor air quality because it absorbs humidity. Paint rnSynthetic paint uses petrochemicals, and generates waste and toxic emissions in the manufacturing process. The waste generated from manufacturing paint accounts for approximately twenty percent of the hydrocarbons that pollute the earth’s atmosphere. The production of one ton of solvent-based paint will produce as much as thirty tons of hazardous, nonbiodegradable waste. When paint or painted objects are disposed of, they leach chemicals—polluting air, earth and water. rnTraditional high-VOC oil-based paints outgas for as long as six months and water-based paint outgasses for a year. Fortunately, the paint industry in both United States and Europe is beginning to phase out high-VOC paints. rnThere are now plenty of safe paints available—even among major manufacturers.rnFor a list of the safest paints, see “Resources.” The safest to least safe paints are as follows:

• Milk paint
  Also called casein paint. Milk paint is made from milk protein (casein), pigments, lime and clay. Water is added when ready to use. It’s virtually VOC free (VOC free when dry), has a mild, non-toxic odor, and doesn’t peel or chip. Milk paint is perfect for unfinished, porous, plaster, wood or earth walls. If surface is non-porous, special prep work will need to be done; ask manufacturer or retailer. Flat finish. Few premixed colors, but can customize color for limitless choices.
• Natural or organic paint
  Paint derived from plants and minerals that contain food-safe ingredients; including essential oils, beeswax, tree resins and mineral pigments. From the manufacturing process to the landfill, natural paints are kinder on the environment. VOC level is very low, but the odor may be strong on application. Paints are manufactured to work on most surfaces. No glossy paints.
• Synthetic water-based low-VOC, or Zero or no-VOC
  Most major paint manufacturers carry a low-VOC or no-VOC line of paint. Low VOC: latex <250 grams/liter; Oils <380 grams/liter. Zero or no VOC: latex No EPA standard definition, but means “extremely low.” Low VOC has fewer odors than traditional paint and no VOC has less odor than low-VOC. High-gloss not available.
• Synthetic solvent-based high VOC
  Level of VOC’s varies widely. Odor level is high. Traditional paints come in all colors and finishes; brands are available for all surfaces. Paint outgasses up to six months. Ingredients include VOC’s such as benzene, formaldehyde and petrochemicals. Paint chemicals have been linked to everything from temporary respiratory irritations to chronic illnesses.

Paneling Paneling adds insulation to a room and can create a warm and cozy feeling. Avoid engineered wood, as it is not environmentally sound and creates indoor pollution by outgassing. Choose wood or bamboo that are sustainable and treat with natural oils or waxes. Cork Cork is a good choice for providing insulation and for softening the sound in a room. It can be finished with natural wood stains. Apply cork with a non-toxic adhesive. Linoleum Because it is water resistant, linoleum is a good choice in bathrooms. Apply with a non-toxic adhesive. Ceramic Tile Tile is durable, waterproof and available in a wide assortment of colors and patterns. As with cork and linoleum, care should be taken to use only a non-toxic adhesive. Plasters Wall plasters of clay, lime and gypsum have been used since ancient times. Clay, in particular, is an environmentally sound choice and is plentiful; the earth is comprised of seventy percent clay, it is biodegradable, requires no energy to process and is stable. Clay plaster absorbs excess humidity and it breathes. Clay is naturally lovely, but you can colorwash clay with environmentally-safe, lime-based paints. Vinyl, Paper and Fabric Wallpaper There are currently some paper wallpapers being made from recycled paper, and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies some that use renewable wood sources. Wallpaper manufacturers have developed a standard to keep the worst chemicals out of their products. rnHowever, the vast majority of vinyl, paper and fabric wallpapers are environmentally unsound. Wallpapers are comprised of the face material, the backing material and adhesive. The dyes and inks and the mold inhibitors in the face material are environmentally dangerous. Vinyl wallpaper, derived from petrochemicals, is dangerous as it outgasses toxic VOC’s. Additionally, because vinyl is impermeable, condensation builds up and creates poor indoor air quality. Fabric Wall Hangings rnTapestries have been used since ancient times for their warmth, their ability to soften noise and for their beauty. All kinds of textiles can be hung on walls, from area rugs to a beautiful piece of fabric. Use natural and untreated fabrics or yarns. rnExcerpt from Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify & Energize Your Life, Your Home & Your Planet, copyright 2007.