Used for drying, thickening, or as anti-foam agents. Additives may contain heavy metal fungicides containing mercury compounds, which irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Oil-based paint that is thrown into the trash ends up at the landfill, where there is a potential health hazard of the chemicals seeping in and contaminating the groundwater. Oil-based paint is also flammable, creating a potential explosive situation. Buy latex paint.
Latex paint has less hazardous ingredients.
Buy only the quantity you need. Request help from the store retailer. Reuse - Give leftover paint to neighbors, friends, relatives, churches, theatrical groups, high schools, recreation departments or community service organizations. Only give away paint that is of good quality, in its original container, and with an intact label. Schedule an appointment at the FNSB Household Hazardous Waste facility located at the landfill.