A circular economy for paints

Why do we want change?

Because, for every litre of water and solvent-based paint stashed away, there is an estimated 500ml of valuable polymers going to waste. Our report Polymers in liquid formulations: opportunities for a sustainable future shows that enough polymers in liquid formulations (PLFs) are used each year to fill Wembley Stadium 32 times – and the paints market is the largest, by volume.

We have suggested how to make all markets that rely on this valuable group of chemicals found in millions of products worldwide more sustainable, and convened an industry task force to plan how to make this a reality.

What can we do?

Fortunately, leftover liquid paint can be turned back into high quality paint for reuse without much technical challenge. In fact, several remanufacturing schemes already exist in the UK – but we need to raise awareness and call for a plan that makes sure this happens nationwide.

Take a photo of your stash and push for better paint recycling by sharing on social media using #PaintStasher, then use our tool to write to your local MP, MSP, MS or MLA.

And as ever, all #PaintStashers can do their bit for sustainability simply by following our tips below: reduce, reuse, recycle.

Call for sustainable change

Join our calls for a sustainable circular economy. We host the Engaging Networks tool which lets you easily write a letter to your local elected representative.

We’re calling for three simple action points from UK and local governments:

1. Provide more support to paint recycling initiatives to reduce wastage of reusable paints

2. Make it easier for consumers to recycle paints no matter where they live

3. Directly invest in research programmes for sustainable alternatives for PLFs

Reduce, reuse, recycle

PaintCare’s website lists tools to help you work out exactly how much paint you need to buy to start with – and also points out where you can buy more sustainable remanufactured paint in the UK.

If you plan to use the paint in your tins for another project or for touch ups, how you store it can affect how long it lasts. Find tips on extending the life of your paint.

If you have bought too much and don’t think you’ll ever use it, there are many things you can do with your stash of leftover tins of paint:

• Several high street shops give full refunds on unopened paint – check your retailer’s website
• Local community collection schemes such as Community RePaint use leftover paint for valuable community projects – local schools or groups may also want it
• You can give it away to friends, family, or sell it using online marketplaces (always take necessary precautions with strangers)
• Check RecycleNow to see if your local waste recycling centre accepts liquid paint
• Check your local council website for advice and see if they provide a collection service

Help spread the word

If you can’t take a picture of your stash, click on our slides below to post on Twitter or download the image to share elsewhere and encourage your friends and family to help make redecorating more sustainable.