When we talk about chemicals in and from our buildings, the focus is often on substances that cause problems for people and the environment. Because there are lots of undesirable chemicals out there that we don’t want in our bodies, products or homes. But chemistry is not in itself the dirty word that I feel it is often made out to be in the public debate.
Chemistry is also what makes our materials long-lasting, which is also an essential element of sustainability. It is more important than ever to understand how to use chemicals wisely, rather than making it our mission to avoid all chemicals.
Chemistry is what binds the pigment in paint, ensures a uniform surface and protects against moisture and wear. Chemistry contributes to extending the lifespan of buildings and other items. Without the right chemistry, we would not have products that can withstand wind, weather and everyday use for decades. Modern paint technology clearly demonstrates how chemistry, when applied in a targeted manner, can both improve functionality and reduce environmental impact.
At Flügger, we often encounter scepticism when the topic of chemistry arises. And that’s completely understandable! The majority of us have been raised with the notion that chemistry is dangerous. But today’s reality is far more nuanced. I hope that future discussions about chemistry will be driven primarily by curiosity rather than fear.
Developments in paint technology are a good example of how far we have come. Whereas painters in the old days worked in strong solvent vapours and risked allergic reactions or, in extreme cases, so-called ‘painter’s brain’, modern paints today are predominantly water-based, with low emissions and minimal allergy risk.
But it is chemistry that has made it possible to remove the harmful substances – while still ensuring that the paint covers, binds and adheres as it should. This is the result of targeted innovation, not the absence of chemistry.
Today, it is actually the right chemistry that makes paint both durable and sustainable. It protects buildings from moisture and mould, which causes less wear and tear on woodwork and other building components. This contributes to extending the lifespan of our houses, which benefits the environment. For example, chemistry plays a role in ensuring that outdoor woodwork does not need to be replaced every few years, which would result in significantly increased deforestation.
EU regulations and eco-labels such as the Swan label have contributed to the phase-out of many harmful substances, and this has certainly been a necessary step. But at the same time, these developments create new challenges for the manufacturers. When solvents are removed and preservatives are restricted, water-based products become more vulnerable. The paint can become stale more easily, its shelf life decreases, and the risk of waste increases.
This creates a dilemma where the good intentions behind the regulation actually risk compromising sustainability. In an attempt to make paint “cleaner”, we risk creating more waste and thereby increasing our environmental impact.
This does not mean that regulations are not important. On the contrary, regulation has made a significant difference. Substances that previously caused allergies have been removed, and both painters and consumers are much better protected today. However, we must be careful not to lose the features that chemistry was intended to ensure in our efforts to use as little chemistry as possible.
This is precisely where understanding the role of chemistry becomes crucial – not just as an ingredient, but as a key to combining safety, durability and reduced environmental impact.
It bothers me when chemistry itself is made the undisputed villain in conversations about climate and the environment. If the debate about chemistry is to move us forward, it must focus less on the absence of chemistry and more on its responsible and relevant use. When used correctly, chemistry can help make products more durable, reduce waste and protect both buildings and people. It is part of the solution to the challenges we face in the construction industry.
It is through understanding and innovation that we can develop even better and more sustainable products. And that is how we ensure that we avoid undesirable chemicals while maintaining functionality and durability.
Chemistry is not a problem in itself. But we must use it correctly.
