We have known for many years that paint needs proper disposal, which might be why 38% of us with paint to get rid of still have it kicking around. Many of us think we might be doing touch ups later or maybe just don’t know what to do with it. I have to admit I still have some paint tucked away that I thought I might use again to touch up spots. Hadn’t thought much of it until I read this study, but now I realize it is time to get rid of it.

The good news is that only 4% of Canadians toss paint into the garbage. Over half of us dispose of it properly by taking to proper waste depots or returning it to suppliers. If you are looking to dispose of some old paint like I am (Let’s face it. I am not doing the touch ups.), then go to http://www.productcare.org/ - an industry-sponsored program - and click on your province. Currently, there are programs in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia. It takes a few clicks but you will eventually get a list of depots near you.

They also have links to other provincial programs on their links page; so if they don’t work in your province, see if they have a link to a paint disposal program near you.

The paint options are quite varied now and you can buy paint that is far more environmentally friendly than in the past.  Here are two suppliers from opposite sides of the country that offer alternatives for our walls, our families and the planet.

New Brunswick www.eco-house.com/

British Columbia www.greenpaint.ca/