Air quality
European Directives
Paints Directive (2004/42/CE)
Directive 2004/42/CE on the limitation of emissions of volatile organic compounds due to the use of organic solvents in certain paints and varnishes and vehicle refinishing products and amending Directive 1999/13/EC.
- Purpose of the Paints Directive
- How does the Paints Directive reduce emissions?
- UK implementation of the Paints Directive – the Regulations
- Consultations
- Links
- Contacts
What is the purpose of the Paints Directive?
The Paints Directive aims to reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs, solvents) across the UK and Europe. VOCs are precursors to the formation of ground level ozone (summer smog) and reductions resulting from implementation of this Directive will lead to improvements in air quality and public health.
How does the Paints Directive reduce emissions?
The Paints Directive applies a product based approach to control emissions by setting:
UK implementation of the Paints Directive – the Regulations
The Directive has been implemented in the UK by the Volatile Organic Compounds in Paints, Varnishes and Vehicle Refinishing Products Regulations 2005 (Statutory Instrument 2005, No. 2773):
Consultation: on a licensing scheme for the sale and purchase of non-compliant paints for use on historic buildings and vintage vehicles
In September 2007, Defra published a consultation paper on proposals for a licensing scheme which would implement the derogation for historic buildings and vintage vehicles. The licensing scheme would allow individuals and businesses to obtain non-compliant paint products for exclusive use in the restoration and maintenance of historic buildings and vintage vehicles. The consultation closed in December 2007 with a summary of responses published in April 2008.
Links
Contact
Defra
Air & Environment Quality Division
EU & International Air Quality Branch
7/E14, Ashdown House
123 Victoria Street
London SW1E 6DE
Email: air.quality@defra.gsi.gov.uk
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Page published 28 April 2008