Sustainability

Sustainability in Coatings

Paint, printing inks, wallcoverings and specialist coatings might not always be visible, but they play a big role in everyday life. From the buildings we live in to the transport we rely on and the renewable energy systems powering the future, coatings are everywhere.

Driving progress

The coatings sector is actively working to reduce its environmental impact while continuing to deliver high-performance products. Over recent decades, companies have made significant progress, including:

• Reducing carbon emissions
• Lowering volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Minimising waste
• Increasing recycling

In 2021, BCF pledged on behalf of its members that the sector will achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050, supported by a sector-wide Net Zero Roadmap launched in 2023.

Coatings that support a lower-carbon future

Coatings also help other industries become more sustainable.

For example:

• Protective coatings extend the life of buildings and infrastructure
• Specialist coatings help wind turbines and solar panels operate efficiently
• Marine coatings reduce drag on ships, cutting fuel use and emissions

Be part of the solution

For students and early-career professionals, this means the opportunity to work on technologies and innovations that support the transition to a lower-carbon economy.

Whether your interests lie in science, engineering, sustainability, manufacturing or business, a career in coatings can give you the chance to contribute to practical, real-world environmental solutions.