Seminar looks at green use of low-VOC architectural paint
More than 350 trade professionals, representatives from major property developers, management companies, construction industry and paint manufacturers/suppliers met on June 26, 2007 to discuss the use of low-VOC (volatile organic compound) architectural paints in Hong Kong.
Speaking at the seminar, Deputy Director of Environmental Protection, Mr Carlson Chan, said the support of the trade was the key to successfully reducing VOC emission from paints and improving the ambient air quality in Hong Kong.
"VOC fumes emitted from painting works are a major contributor to near-ground formation of ozone which in turn gives rise to fine particulates and smog that impair our visibility and affect our health," he said.
"The use of low-VOC paints will reduce the use of VOC-containing thinners and cleaning solvents. It will also reduce the occupational exposure of front-line workers, the fire and explosion hazards on site, and any complaints relating to indoor air pollution from neighbours and future tenants of the premises."
The seminar on green use of low-VOC architectural paint held on June 26, 2007 was the first experience-sharing meeting since the implementation of the VOC Regulation, which sets VOC limit and other requirements for regulated products, taking effect in phases from April 1.
A 45-minute video, "Protect our Blue Sky - Limit VOC Emission", giving practical advice on the selection of paint and reduction of VOC emissions from on-site work, will soon be uploaded on www.epd.gov.hk for public viewing.
Pictured are speakers and guests attending the seminar.
