Some of the paints may contain formaldehyde and benzene, which are carcinogenic while others have heavy metals like lead, mercury and phthalates, which are human and ecosystem toxins, writes Deepti Adlakha Make right choice: There is more to paint, especially harmful ingredients that one must take note of. There's nothing like a coat of fresh paint to spruce up a drab looking interior space. In times when "go green' seems to be the mantra in every facet of life, there's more to consider than just the colour, texture or finish of the paint you would like to opt for. Some of the paints may contain formaldehyde and benzene, which are carcinogenic while others, such as heavy metals like lead, mercury and phthalates, are human and ecosystem toxins. Indian scenario The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has slated 1000 ppm ("parts per million') as the benchmark for acceptable levels for lead in paints. However, this feature is only optional and manufacturers are not bound by law to adhere to it and provide safe household paints. Lead-based paints have already been banned in many countries across the world. However, as India does not have enforceable limits for lead in paints, it results in less controlled paint products. Conventional paint is composed of a solid portion (resin, fillers, pigments, curing agents and performance additives) and a liquid carrier. Most paints are in the range of 25-30 per cent solids and have a carrier content of 70-75 per cent. A carrier may be either a volatile organic solvent or water. If water is used as the carrier, additional components such as ammonia may be used to keep the resin and other additives in suspension. The stink about paint One of the growing concerns of the paint industry today is the high concentration of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that off-gas during the painting process