Best Eco-Friendly Paint Brands in the UK

Decorating your home is one of the quickest ways to breathe new life into a space, but mainstream paints often come with a cocktail of high VOCs (volatile organic compounds) petrochemical-derived pigments  and plastic-laden formulas. Not exactly the “new home feel” we’re after.

More and more people are now choosing paints that do better for their homes, their health, and the planet. Low-VOC, water-based paints with biodegradable or recycled packaging are becoming easier to find, and some brands are leading the charge in creating high-performance paint without the harmful extras.

It’s worth noting, though, that the term 'eco-friendly paint' doesn’t have an official definition. In fact, the British Coatings Federation has flagged it as potential greenwashing if not properly explained. Performance and environmental claims vary across brands, so looking out for trusted certifications like the EU Ecolabel, B Corp, or Vegan Society can help cut through the noise. That’s why in this guide, we’re taking a closer look at what really makes a paint more sustainable—beyond the buzzwords—and highlighting the UK brands doing things differently. Let’s get rolling!

1. What Makes Paint More Eco-Friendly?

Here’s what to look out for when choosing a paint that’s better for your home—and the planet:

• 💧 Water-based: More eco-friendly paints are typically water-based, which means they contain fewer harsh chemicals than solvent-based alternatives. They’re easier to clean up, safer to use indoors, and better for your health and the environment.
• 🍃 Trace VOC: VOC stands for volatile organic compound—chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature and contribute to indoor air pollution. Paints with trace VOCs contain the lowest measurable levels, offering better air quality and a healthier living space.
• 🪴 Biodegradable Ingredients: Look for paints that use mineral-based pigments and biodegradable binders where possible. These formulas break down more easily in the environment, reducing long-term impact.
• ♻️ Recyclable Packaging: Tins made from infinitely recyclable materials (like steel or aluminium) are a far more sustainable choice than plastic pots or mixed-material packaging that can’t be recycled.
• 🏭 Made-to-Order Batches: Some brands manufacture in small, made-to-order batches. This reduces waste, minimises water usage, and avoids excess inventory—supporting a more mindful and sustainable production process.
• 🗑️ Waste-Reducing Samples: Instead of single-use plastic pots brands like Lick offer Peel & Stick samples which are made with 0% plastic and 94% less paint than industry average tester pots. Second best are reusable glass pots or infinitely recyclable tins.
• 🧡 Brand Values: Look for companies that are transparent about their sustainability journey. Certifications like B Corp are a good sign, as they indicate a commitment to high standards across governance, environment, community, and worker welfare—not just the end product.
• 🐰 Vegan & Cruelty-Free: Some paints use animal-derived ingredients (like casein or ox gall), but many paint brands now offer fully vegan and cruelty-free formulas—no hidden animal products or testing.
• 🇬🇧 Made in the UK: Choosing paint made locally helps reduce transport emissions and supports UK-based jobs and manufacturing. It’s a small but meaningful way to lower the overall carbon footprint.

2. What Are the Benefits of Eco-Friendly Paint?

Water-based paint is the more eco-friendly choice, as it produces fewer fumes and potentially harmful chemicals. They are also more low odour which makes for a much more pleasant painting process. 

VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds are present in everything from air fresheners to carpets and paint. Not all water-based paints are Trace VOC, but brands like Lick have taken extra care to ensure that their VOC 'count' is near zero, to ensure a safer indoor environment and a much more pleasant painting experience.

• Healthier Homes: Low or zero VOCs reduce indoor air pollution.
• Low Odour: Water-based formulas mean fewer fumes and a more pleasant painting process.
• Safe for All: Better for children, pets, and those with allergies or sensitivities.
• Sustainable Ingredients: Made with natural minerals and renewable or recycled materials.
• Durable: Designed to last with excellent coverage and wipeable surfaces.
• Lower Impact: Conscious manufacturing and recyclable packaging reduce your footprint.

3. How Do Eco-Friendly Paints Compare to Regular Paints?

Is eco paint as durable as traditional paint? And what about the finish, the fumes, or the packaging? We’ve broken it all down in the comparison table below—so you can see exactly how eco-friendly paints stack up against conventional options.

5. Are There Eco-Friendly Paint Trays and Accessories?

Yes! Many brands now offer eco-conscious tools, and LickTools lead the way—designed with decorators in mind, using durable, sustainably sourced materials.

• Paint Brushes: Made with sustainably farmed bamboo handles and recycled metal and bristles. Bamboo grows fast and regenerates without deforestation.
• Paint Rollers: Ergonomic bamboo handles, recycled sleeves, and quality frames for smooth, easy painting.
• Sugarcane Paint Trays: Made from biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable sugarcane pulp—no washing needed.
• Dust Sheets: Made from 100% recycled, biodegradable plastic. Breaks down safely in landfill or marine environments.
• Masking Tape: Recyclable at home and gentle on walls—perfect for clean edges and easy removal.

Every Lick tool is designed to reduce waste without compromising quality—so you can decorate your home and protect the planet at the same time.

6. What Can I Do with Leftover Paint?

For leftover paint, consider upcycling old furniture or decanting into smaller jars for craft projects. You can also donate usable paint to reuse networks like Community Re-Paint, Paint 360 and PaintCare which collect, recycle, and redistribute leftover paint—helping reduce waste and give it a second life. Alternatively, explore recycling schemes through your local council. If your paint tins are empty, dry, and clean, they can be recycled with standard metal waste.

Our Top Picks for Eco-Friendly Paint