Any colour as long as it’s green

Buy what you need

The easiest way to avoid waste is to measure the area you plan to paint, then use coverage recommendations on the side of the can to calculate how much paint is needed.

Buy a friendlier paint

Choose water-based rather than solvent-based paints. When solvent-based paints dry, volatile compounds are released that can cause all manner of health complaints. Water-based paints mainly emit water vapour.There are also a range of paints on the market promising reduced impact on the environment. The best brands carry the Environmental Choice New Zealand label, which covers all aspects of their life-cycle from health effects down to how ingredients are mined.

Store it well

Paint can last for years if it’s used and stored correctly. When painting, tip a small amount into a separate pot and use that as you work, so the main pot doesn’t get contamination from the surface you’re working on. When finished, cover the top of the paint can with clingfilm, put the lid on tight and then store it upside down.

Use your leftovers

The easy way to get rid of spare paint is to slap on extra coats until it’s gone! But if that sounds like work there are plenty of organisations who could use it; try your local school, kindy, community group, art group, charity or even your neighbour.

Recycle containers

You can take your unwanted paint and containers to your local Resene PaintWise Collection Centre. They send paint to community groups, and recycle or dispose of materials responsibly. A small charge applies to non-Resene branded products, plus it pays to check what can be accepted first at www.resene.co.nz. Eco-paint maker Paint+ also accepts any of their leftover product.

Washing and disposal

Brushes used in solvent-based paints need cleaning in mineral turpentine while water-based paints need water. But even if you’re using a fully certified eco-paint neither chemical solvents nor waste water from washed paint equipment can go down drains or sewers as it can harm aquatic life.

To wash brushes safely

1. Wipe or squeeze excess paint on to rags, newspapers or cardboard. Allow these to dry before disposing with the household waste.
2. Wash brushes and equipment with water (or turps) in a large pail, then transfer to a second pail of clean water for a final rinse.
3. Cover the first pail and allow to stand for at least 24 hours until the paint solids have settled to the bottom.
4. The clear water in this pail can then be poured on to a patch of grass to be absorbed and broken down, keeping it away from rivers, lakes and the sea.
5. If using turps, do not pour the solvent out. Use it to top up the second container or cover tightly and keep for future use.
6. Scrape the leftover paint solids out on to rags, newspaper or cardboard, allow to dry, then place in a bag and dispose with the household rubbish.