How Does Old Paint Get Recycled Into New Paint?
Finding Recyling Programs If you have a few extra cans of leftover latex paint, don’t throw them out—you may be able to have your paint remade afresh, so that you or other people can use it in new painting projects. The first step in recycling old latex paint into new involves finding out whether your community has a paint recycling program. You can check for recycling programs at Earth911 (see Resources) or contact your local recycling center or waste management program. Recycling Exceptions Latex paint can usually be reused. However, paint purchased before 1991 may have mercury in it, making it unsafe to recycle. If you’re unsure about the date of purchase, for safety’s sake dispose of your paint. Recycling centers also accept oil-based paint, but oil-based paint cannot be made into new paint products. Instead, it is turned into a fuel additive and used at power plants. Types of Recycled Paint Once you drop off your extra paint, it undergoes the actual recycling process. Recycled p
