Many paints and other coatings, used to protect and beautify buildings, cars, and other objects, have organic solvents as a major ingredient. These solvents can have a detrimental effect on the air we breathe. The solvents, which evaporate when the paint dries, contribute to the formation of ozone in the lower atmosphere. This ozone reacts with other materials in the atmosphere, causing the condition known as smog. The chief ingredients which form smog are nitrogen oxides, organic vapors and ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The solvents in paints are one source of organic vapors.
The hydrocarbon emissions from paints increases as the use of paints grows. Paint shipments in the USA increase annually, as the demand for automobiles, buildings, household appliances, furniture and other consumer goods increases. According to data provided by the Department of Commerce, the total value of paint shipments is increasing by approximately 4 to 5% annually. The overall value of paints consumed in the US increased from $13.3 billion to $14.1billion in the years 1993 to 1994 Chemical & Engineering News ,The American Chemical Society .