Sustainable Alternatives for Graffiti | New Perspectives of Art

 
 

Graffiti is a modern art style that excels at transforming and enlivening urban places, often reflected as large murals in public places, which is somewhat controversial. But have you ever wondered if this type of art is environmentally friendly? What are the effects of spray paint? 

 

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Graffiti per-se is an artistic manifestation that carries legal consequences, as it is considered an act of vandalism. This is based on years of history, where graffiti has functioned as a means of criticism of society but has been a tool for freedom of expression. What many people do not consider, including artists, is the damage that spray paint causes to the environment. 

Spray paints are gasses created from liquids and solids that contain many chemicals. It also has high levels of toxicity, so it can be harmful to health if it is frequently aspirated. Specialists have determined that air quality is also affected by the emission of these gasses; it is estimated that 31 tons of emissions have been produced, affecting and thinning the ozone.

Also, leaving aside the content, the cans used to reserve the paint are made of materials that pollute and are difficult to recycle, such as aluminum. Their production is equivalent to large carbon dioxide emissions that can be equated with those emitted by the automotive industry.

Therefore, we bring to all artists who want to address the problem, a series of green alternatives that will allow them to become the most environmental painter

WATER-BASED SPRAY

This type of spray has revolutionized the perspective of graffiti. As the spray contains water within its solution then the use of solvents for painting is no longer necessary. Solvents are volatile organic compounds (VOC's) that can remain for a long time without degrading, they are a risk for the ozone layer, the air and animals. Therefore, thanks to the water-based spray, the production of toxic substances that have an effect on humans and the environment is reduced.

 
 
 
 

SPRAY WITH ECOLOGICAL PROPELLANTS

Propellants are an element used in all spray paints because they are the reason for discharging and spraying the product from the can. Lately, several companies are trying to use smaller amounts of propellants or create more environmentally friendly propellant solutions that are easier to balance and control. However, there are other producers who want to make a bigger change and have replaced propellants with compressed air. 

 

CARBON-BASED SPRAY

Believe it or not, this type of spray uses the pollution itself to paint.  It is a new idea that still lacks momentum but seems to be a great alternative. Several projects are trying to use carbon dioxide emissions from automobiles in paint cans. We all know that the soot released by cars can stain various surfaces black, so entrepreneurs want to use this waste together with a mixture of oils to make innovative paints. 

 
 

*Highlight Image: © Tengyart via Unsplash

 

 

+  Words:
Regina Berndt
Luxiders Magazine