What impact does using waterborne paint have on the environment compared to solvent-based paints?

Using waterborne paint is considered to be more environmentally friendly and produces fewer volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions compared to solvent-based paints. Waterborne paints utilize water as the primary solvent, which significantly reduces the concentration of harmful solvents that can evaporate into the atmosphere. This decrease in VOC emissions contributes to improved air quality and a lower environmental impact, which is especially important in urban areas and during the application process.

Waterborne formulations have become increasingly popular in the automotive refinishing industry as regulatory agencies enforce stricter environmental regulations regarding emissions. The staggering reduction in VOCs not only benefits the atmosphere but also enhances worker safety in the shop environment, reducing their exposure to harmful chemicals typically found in high-solvent paints.

While durability and drying times can vary based on specific formulations and conditions, the clear advantage of waterborne paint lies in its reduced environmental footprint, making it the preferred choice for eco-conscious practices in collision repair and refinishing.