Painting industry launches training scheme to reduce waste

A new statewide accredited training program, Sustainable Painting Practices, is now available for WA painting contractors and retailers to help them reduce waste, encourage recycling and provide advice in sustainable products.

The training is aimed at preparing painters for the needs of the green building industry, eco-conscious consumers and to improve environmental management in the industry. The course is a joint collaboration between the Department of Environment and Conservation and GreenPainters, the national sustainability initiative for the painting industry, and is funded by the Waste Authority Urban Landfill Levy.

The course also focuses on:

• wastewater and environmental management
• Green Star requirements
• new paint technology
• recycling schemes

“Painting has been one of the most toxic and polluting sectors of the WA construction industry,” says Daniel Wurm, Managing Director of GreenPainters. “Not only has painting led to contamination of water after cleaning up and off-gassing into the atmosphere of poisonous chemicals, but [it has] also contributed to health issues, affecting both tradesmen and consumers. The good news is that there are new products, legislation and work methods available that will greatly reduce the problem. We are really excited by the funding of the course. We believe it will prepare our industry for the future.

“Most painters are unaware that they can face stiff fines if they fail to comply with EPA legislation. We teach them about what they need to do to comply,” says Wurm. “The painters and retailers that will complete the course are encouraged to use and recommend products that can protect indoor air quality, leading to healthier places to live, work and play. We will train them to understand new paint technology such as heat-reflective nano-ceramics to reduce cooling costs.”

It is estimated that the average Australian household can offset 18 tonnes of carbon per year, just by painting their house with heat-reflective products. The course will show business owners how to save money and combat climate change by cutting waste and re-using resources.

GreenPainters is the non-profit program established to provide advice, knowledge and skills to help the painting industry go green. Its website has more information.