The Evolution of Coatings
The European Union has committed to phasing out harmful chemicals like PFAS and reducing reliance on solvent-based paints by 2030 as part of its Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability.
But even sustainable paints produce rinse water waste - and that still needs to be handled legally and safely.
Natural Pigments
Early humans used charcoal, ochre, and crushed minerals to decorate cave walls and artifacts. Paint was expression — and preservation.
Industrial Chemistry
The rise of lead-based and solvent paints brought durability - but also health and environmental risks.
Lead exposure, VOCs, and toxic runoff became serious concerns.
Water-Based Paints
Water-based formulations began replacing solvent-based alternatives. They reduced air pollution and improved workplace safety, especially in residential and indoor use.
Toward Bio-Based Coatings
Paint manufacturers are innovating with renewable ingredients to create coatings that are safer and more sustainable - while maintaining high performance.
- Bio-based paints
- Low-VOC formulations
- Greater transparency in ingredient sourcing
What Is Paint Rinse Water?
Rinse water is created when water is added to paint products, for example from the cleaning of tools such as brushes, rollers, or spray guns, or production line tools.
Water Based paints contain:
- Pigments, binders, heavy metals
- PFAS (especially in fire-retardant coatings)
- Microplastics and synthetic compounds
A 2022 study revealed paint is the leading source of microplastic pollution in oceans ( source)
The Hidden Risk: Illegal Dumping
Illegal dumping of toxic substances is a growing environmental issue that often goes unnoticed. An increasing number of companies choose to discharge harmful chemicals directly into the sewer system without any treatment. This practice is not only illegal but also extremely damaging to the environment, public health, and drinking water supplies. Read the article →
Consequences of Illegal Dumping
- Contamination of ditches, rivers, and lakes
- Disruption of treatment processes at water purification plants
- Health risks, especially due to carcinogenic substances
- Unfair competition for companies that do operate sustainably and responsibly
Did You Know...
- Just one liter of paint rinse water can pollute thousands of liters of clean water
- Most local recycling parks don't accept paint rinse water
- Businesses are legally required to dispose of it correctly
- Collected paint rinse water can be processed and reused in the manufacturing process of new products
What can you do?
Clean Water Global supports companies with safe, circular solutions for processing rinse water and chemical waste. By managing waste responsibly, you can prevent illegal dumping, comply with environmental regulations, and contribute to a cleaner, healthier future.
Discharging rinse water is illegal under European environmental law. Without a certificate of disposal, companies are exposed to serious fines, failed audits, or environmental liability.
Interested in how you can take care?
Contact us