Watercolor Paint

Paint

Sustainability:

Watercolors are a very sustainable option compared to other paints due to its ability to biodegrade, is water based, and uses much smaller amounts of pigment than other paints. The binder which is used for watercolors is gum arabic, which is completely plant based. Some watercolors do use synthetic pigments, which can be harmful to aquatic systems. It is also important to be mindful of the amount of water being used and the way the water is being disposed of when using watercolors to prevent water waste and wastewater contamination. The packaging waste of watercolors can also be concerning due to how much plastic it can potentially use.

Potential Chemical Exposure:

Watercolors tend to use a lot of plastic packaging, which can increase the risk of microplastic exposure. There is also some potential risk that comes with any synthetic pigments that are sometimes used in watercolor.

Safe Handling Recommendations:

Watercolors are a relatively safe paint compared to others, because even paints with synthetic pigments have a much smaller amount than other types of paint. Watercolors do however tend to come with a lot of plastic packaging, so its best to handle that packaging in a way that avoids direct skin contact or opt for watercolors that don't use plastic packaging at all to avoid potential microplastic exposure.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives:

The best options for watercolor in terms of being eco friendly is to use watercolors with plant based pigments and sustainable packaging options such as cardboard. Another way to ensure the watercolor one uses is sustainable is to make it at home.

Sources - DIY or Retail:

Large and small businesses both carry options for eco friendly watercolors with minimal packaging. Watercolor can also be made easily at home with gum arabic, plant based pigments, and needed mixing supplies.

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