Paint Zero DIY Microplastics Audit

Welcome to the 'Hidden Plastic Culprit' Check.

Please read this introduction before you start.

After redecorating, most people don't give much thought to the paints and wallcoverings in their homes. However, for many decades, the majority of conventional interior paints and vinyl wallcoverings have been made using synthetic polymer materials, such as vinyls, acrylics, and other plastics.

Over time, these painted and coated surfaces can age and wear due to cleaning, moisture, sunlight, and everyday use. When this happens, changes to the surface are not always easy to see with the naked eye and become a 'hidden plastic culprit' capable of shedding microplastics and plasticisers..

Ongoing scientific research shows that indoor environments contain a wide range of fine particles and that some of these particles can originate from everyday building materials, including paints and wallcoverings. Indoor microplastics—and how these materials wear—is an expanding area of research.

What this audit is — and is not.

This DIY audit is NOT a laboratory test and it is NOT a medical or air-quality assessment. It is a set of visual and surface observation exercises developed to help you:

• Identify signs of current surface wear or degradation on painted walls or wallcoverings.
• Know how to periodically recheck ageing or heavily used wall surfaces.
• Make informed choices about how to refurbish interior spaces in the future.

What you will do

You can carry out the audit in up to three rooms in your home. We suggest: 1 bedroom, 1 living room, and either a kitchen or bathroom. Each room will take around 5-10 minutes to assess.

You will only need to gather some everyday household items:

• A dark cloth (e.g., a black microfibre cloth or black sock)
• Clear adhesive tape
• A cup of water
• A bright torch or smartphone light
• (Optional) A simple magnifying glass

You can enter answers directly into your smartphone/tablet or use a pen and paper to note results as you go.

How your information is used

Your email is only used to send you your audit results and general guidance. We do not sell or share your personal data; it is processed according to UK GDPR and PECR regulations.

Contribution to Science:

Anonymous data regarding building age, environment, and room type will be used to help materials scientists and environmental researchers understand the significance of these factors.

What happens next?

After you have completed your audit and submitted your results, we will email you:

• A summary of the conditions you observed in each room.
• An overall indicative score of wall surface condition.
• General suggestions for good wall surface care and refurbishment.

Legal Note:

Results from your participation are informational only and do not constitute a scientific diagnosis, air quality test, or assessment of health risks. We do not provide medical advice. If you have concerns about the medical symptoms of building occupants, you should seek advice from a qualified professional.

Ready to Start?

You will be asked to enter your name and email address below, in order to receive your report.

By entering my name and e-mail below, I acknowledge the following:

• I understand I am participating in an observational audit, not a scientific or medical assessment.
• I grant permission for anonymised data from my results to be used for scientific research.