VOCs and Emissions

Discover the importance of zero VOC paint when it comes to maintaining good indoor air quality.

There’s a lot of buzz around low- and zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, thanks to their potential to help maintain good indoor air quality in living and working environments. These paints offer a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional formulas without sacrificing performance. As more people prioritize wellness and sustainability, low- and zero-VOC paints are becoming an increasingly popular choice.

What are VOCs?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that, along with oxides of nitrogen and sunlight, create ground level ozone, a major component of smog. Certain VOCs are also harmful when inhaled and may pose indoor air quality concerns.

VOCs are chemicals commonly added to paint and coatings to enhance performance traits such as drying time, durability, and freeze-thaw stability. However, as paint dries, these compounds evaporate into the air, often producing a strong odour. Some VOCs can cause asthma and allergy triggers in indoor environments and contribute to poor indoor air quality.

Given the risks associated with VOC exposure, especially for individuals with asthma and allergies, the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program has long emphasized the importance of low-emission products to support healthier indoor environments.

What does Zero Emissions mean?

The United States of America Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has determined that an emission-free or zero-emissions (or VOC) paint claim can be substantiated by, among other things, evidence demonstrating the paint has trace levels of emissions six hours or less after application (and thereafter), and contains no substance that could cause material harm to the health of the average adult under normal anticipated use.

Benjamin Moore's Eco Spec® Interior Paint meets and exceeds this standard.

Why is Indoor Air Quality Important?

“Indoor air quality” refers to the quality of the air inside places like homes, hospitals, schools, offices, and other buildings. Indoor air pollution affects many people, especially those with asthma, allergies, or sensitivity to odours. That’s why maintaining good indoor air quality is critical.

Did you know...

  • The average Singaporean spends 90% of their time indoors.

  • The indoor environment also collects allergens (such as animal dander, dust mite allergen, or mould).

  • Indoor air pollutant levels can be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels.

  • To improve indoor air quality, NEA recommends reducing emissions from indoor sources, by using formaldehyde-free and low- / zero-VOC paints and adhesives.

Feel Confident in Eco Spec

Our greenest and lowest-odour paint, Eco Spec delivers zero VOCs and zero emissions without compromising performance or quality. It has been engineered for those who demand eco-friendly paints to maintain good indoor air quality in their space.

Eco Spec is Independently Tested & Certified

Eco Spec has been tested by multiple independent green certifying organizations, so you can feel confident in knowing that our product meets — and often exceeds — rigorous environmental and performance criteria.

The Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certification Program independently tests and identifies consumer products that are more suitable for those living with asthma and allergies. Eco Spec has earned the certification mark by achieving the program’s strict criteria for VOC emissions and performance.

Learn More: aafa.org

Winner of the Innovation and Environmental Excellence Award

In 2025, Benjamin Moore was presented with the Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certification Program’s prestigious Innovation & Environmental Excellence Award for introducing the first patented waterborne colour system, establishing a foundation for low-VOC paints and redefining possibilities in the paint industry.

Green Seal® Certified

Green Seal has been rewarding leading paints and coatings manufacturers for low-VOC content, safer formulas, and uncompromising performance since 1993. Today, Green Seal is among the world’s most trusted ecolabels for low-VOC products.

Learn More: greenseal.org

LEED® Indoor Air Quality

LEED Indoor Air Quality credits demonstrate a building’s qualifications for reducing the quantity of indoor air contaminants that are odorous, irritating, and/or harmful to the comfort and well-being of installers and occupants.

Learn More: usgbc.org

MPI’s Green Performance™ Standards

MPI’s Green Performance Standards is the certification standard for environmentally friendly paints and coatings in interior spaces — the only green paint / coatings certification required by both the U.S. and Canadian governments.

Learn More: mpi.net

Benjamin Moore’s Green Promise®

Benjamin Moore’s Green Promise designation is our company’s assurance that this product meets — and often exceeds — rigorous environmental and performance criteria regarding VOCs, emissions, application, washability, scrubbability, and packaging, while also delivering the premium levels of performance you expect from Benjamin Moore.

Our “Greenest” Interior Premium Paint

Eco Spec contains antimicrobial additives that inhibit the growth of mould and mildew on the dry paint film. It also offers excellent hide, easy application, great touch-up, and chemical resistance to common cleaners and disinfectants used in homes and healthcare. Its low odour completely dissipates within 60 minutes after application, ensuring painted areas can be occupied sooner.

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