Water-based paint features energy saving, non-flammability, ultra-low emissions and low-carbon health, and applies widely to wood, metal, industrial coatings, plastic, glass and building surfaces; in the long run water-based painting is the future trend. Expanding water-based paint to replace solvent paints with toxic substances is a key path to energy saving and emission reduction, with real significance for air pollution control, public health and resource conservation. Conditions for broad adoption are maturing: technology is mature and cost-effectiveness improved. China has successfully promoted water-based paint in construction and containers; since 2018 container makers must use water-based paint, cutting VOC by about 150,000 tonnes a year. High-end automotive primers are fully water-based, and railways, metros, engineering machinery and special vehicles are gradually following. Replacing solvent paint with water-based is an irreversible trend as awareness and standards rise.

