Oslo: Jotun is to phase out lead chromates from its paint and coatings formulations in line with the EU’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances (REACH) regulations.
Lead chromates remain legal in many global economies, says Jotun. “This global phase out applies to paints and coatings in all segments, worldwide,” says project manager Jens Christoffer Markmanrud. “It is a big step, but we are confident that by substituting lead chromates with safer, high performing alternatives, we can make a big difference.”
Jotun has been attempting to minimise its environmental impact as part of a project launched in 2011 called “Greensteps”, which entails the reduction of hazardous materials, carbon footprint, VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emission, energy consumption and waste. “GreenSteps also broadcasts the work the company does to develop safer, more effective paints and coatings solutions that help customers improve their environmental performance.”
The company’s global phasing out of lead follows ongoing investment in new facilities in China, United States, Vietnam and Dubai as well as record profits of $194m in 2012. Jotun launched their latest low-VOC product Sealion Resilient in March, featuring high solids at approximately 83%.
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