Dealing with excess art supplies: Managing and disposing of unwanted artistic resources
Article by Hanna Granlund - Intercult, Revised
Artists frequently ponder on the question of using environmentally-friendly materials and tools for their craft, and whether sustainable art even exists. These concerns often surface at the beginning of a project. A more common day-to-day challenge is finding an eco-friendly solution for discarded materials and leftovers at the end of the workday.
Tempted to adopt the easiest, cheapest, or most convenient method for yourself, it's essential to consider environmental impact. Options for proper waste disposal vary from region to region, with larger facilities necessary for certain methods. However, there are measures you can take that require minimal effort, contributing to a healthier, more stunning environment. Improving your handling of hazardous materials can enhance your work conditions and personal health in the long run. Let's delve into tips for managing paint waste!
Paints and Paint-Cleaners
All paints and cleaners for paints are classified as hazardous waste due to the variety of chemicals they contain. Some paints contain pigments with harmful properties, like cadmium, which can cause kidney problems and osteoporosis. Artists have been a major source of cadmium contamination in some countries due to the use of certain aquarelle paints containing up to 50% pure cadmium. Paint cleaners often contain chemicals harmful to animals and plants.
Paints
Opt for paints free of toxic pigments such as cadmium, and prioritize those with non-toxic binders like glue, linseed oil, egg, or casein. Minimize solvent-based paints (or oil-based paints that separate over time and have a strong odor) and focus on water-based paints, which can be cleaned with regular water.
Cleaning Paint Tools
Use cloth and paper to remove most of the paint from brushes and utensils. Traditional cleaners like white spirit, turpentine, and similar solvents can be collected in a jar and sent to a waste management facility. These solvents emit fumes that are harmful to inhale, so use sparingly and always in a well-ventilated space.
Consider using a flocculant substance, such as bauxite, to purify the paint water. Mix one tablespoon of bauxite powder with one liter of paint water, then filter through a coffee filter or similar. The filtered water can be poured down the drain! Discard the filter, which retains all the chemicals from the paint. If it contains cadmium or solvents like white spirit or turpentine, it should be treated as hazardous waste. Otherwise, regular trash is fine.
Remember to inquire about the environmental impact of your materials! Let manufacturers and retailers know that you care about these issues.
Source: https://konstnarernas.se/dokument/h-llbar-konst.pdf
Enrichment Insights
Eco-Friendly Paint Alternatives
- Natural Earth Paints: Plant-based, non-toxic, light-fast, and vibrant.
- Real Milk Paint: Made from natural ingredients, biodegradable, and suitable for various art projects like gourd painting.
- Eco Paints: Use plant-derived oils, resins, and mineral pigments, reducing VOCs and pollution.
Proper Disposal of Art Materials
- Local hazardous waste collection
- Specialized recycling centers for art materials
- Donation and reuse
- Proper storage
- Education and awareness
By opting for eco-friendly paint alternatives and disposing of hazardous waste responsibly, artists can minimize their environmental footprint while creating art. Don't forget the importance of handling hazardous materials safely for both your personal health and the planet.
Artists should consider the environmental impact of their choices, such as using paints free of harmful pigments like cadmium and opting for water-based paints. When cleaning paint tools, artists can use compounds like bauxite to purify paint water, which can then be safely discarded. Proper disposal options for art materials include local hazardous waste collection, specialized recycling centers, donation, storage, and education. By adopting eco-friendly methods, artists can contribute to sustainability while still producing art.
