Paints

Traditional - Most latex paints contain a variety of harmful chemicals, i.e. formaldehyde (a known carcinogen), ethylene glycols (i.e. antifreeze), silicas, polyvinyl acetates and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can emit (aka off-gas) for months following application. The vapors can combine with other air pollutants and contribute to smog, ozone and greenhouse gases.

Green – AFM Safecoat: Low and zero VOC paints are made using water-based acrylic co-polymers, kaolin (clay, titanium dioxide, and limestone, and contain no formaldehyde, ammonia, crystalline silica, ethylene glycol or other toxic ingredients. The paints provide good coverage, clean up easily with soap and water, and are available in hundreds of standard colors and can be custom mixed to match the colors of almost any paint manufacturer. A big myth is that Zero VOC is safe. Propylene glycol is a VOC but has no indica of toxicity unlike ethylene glycol also a VOC, which is essentially antifreeze.

Stains

Traditional - The production of oil-based wood finishes and other coatings, such as paint, have relied on petrolium - a non-renewable resource.

Green - Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey: Made from a renewable resource, because whey is a byproduct of the dairy industry. Thus, helps to reduce dependence on oil, and contributes to a more sustainable world.