Paint and Coating Removal Products and Contracts

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Founded in 1970, the Ecology Center serves one purpose: protecting healthy people and a healthy planet. We believe that the central question of our time is how human beings are going to thrive in the world without destroying the earth's ability to sustain us. This can only be achieved with your support.

In March 2019, the EPA issued a final rule to prohibit the manufacture (including import), processing, and distribution of methylene chloride in all paint and coating removal products for consumer use. The rule has not been implemented so these products are still on the store shelves.

Proposed procurement goals:

Identify and replace 100% of paint and coating removal products containing methylene chloride and N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) with safer alternatives
For alternative products:
- 100% are certified by Green Seal or UL Ecologo certified or EPA Safer Choice registered
- Eliminate all aerosol containers
- Require disclosure of PFAS in all products considered for purchase: Michigan Executive Directive 2021-8, Reducing State Purchases of Products Containing Intentionally Added PFAS
- Require product ingredient disclosure in all paint and coating removal contracts

Case studies:

Portland, OR’s Healthy Purchasing Initiative requests “chemical ingredient hazard disclosure of goods and materials purchased by the City including but not limited to: cleaning supplies, office supplies, building products and materials, infrastructure materials.” RPN
Massachusetts: Graffiti cleaners must be certified by Green Seal or UL Ecologo, or EPA Safer Choice registered; no aerosol containers.