Can we really achieve a circular economy in the paint industry?
Understanding the Linear Economy and Its Environmental Impact
The current economic model in most Western countries is known as a ‘linear economy.’ This system operates by extracting raw materials from the Earth, using them for production, and then discarding them—often in a very short time frame. This approach is unsustainable for two major reasons:
- Finite Resources: The planet’s natural resources are limited, and we are consuming them at an unsustainable rate.
- Harmful Waste: The waste generated is often disposed of in ways that negatively impact the environment, such as through landfill or incineration, both of which contribute to pollution and ecological damage.
What is a Circular Economy and How Can It Help?
A circular economy aims to maximize the lifecycle of materials by reusing, repairing, remanufacturing, and recycling them. By reducing the need for raw materials and minimizing waste, this model helps address the environmental challenges posed by the linear economy.
How Community RePaint is Pioneering a Circular Economy in Paint
At Community RePaint, we are actively creating and promoting a circular economy within the paint industry. Here’s how we’re making it happen:
- Paint Reuse
Rather than treating leftover paint as waste destined for landfill or incineration (which has been illegal since 2011), we give it a second life. Leftover paint—whether full tins from businesses or half-used cans from homes and decorators—can be reused in various community projects. This reduces the demand for new paint and prevents unnecessary waste.
- Paint Remanufacturing: ReColour
Since 2016, we’ve been remanufacturing “waste” paint into a nearly-new product called ReColour. This paint is made from leftover paint collected at recycling centers across the UK. By rethinking waste, we’ve created a high-quality product that appeals to both large organizations and small projects, all while utilizing materials that would otherwise be discarded.
The Circular Journey of ReColour Paint
This unassuming container of ReColour paint means a great deal to us, and here’s why. This very container of ReColour paint was remanufactured out of ‘waste’ leftover paint, bought by an individual or project, to brighten their space. It’s leftover paint was then dropped off at a participating recycling centre, and returned back to the remanufacturing centre to be remanufactured again into ReColour to brighten another wall. It is a true circle where the ‘waste’ was prevented not just once, but again and again.
The Impact of a Circular Economy in Paint
A circular economy in the paint industry is crucial to reducing waste. Every year, over 50 million liters of paint are thrown away in the UK alone. At Community RePaint, our mission is to divert this waste, fully utilizing leftover paint for the benefit of people and the planet. By valuing materials and using them responsibly, we are helping to create a more sustainable future.
Why not reuse paint for your next project, and help us close the loop: find your local scheme.
