Volatile Organic Compounds

Indoor air is three times more polluted than outdoor air,
and according to the EPA, is considered to be one of the top 5 hazards to human health. Paints and finishes are among the leading causes.
Paints and finishes release low level toxic emissions into the air for years after application. The source of these toxins is a variety of VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds) which, until recently, were essential to the performance of the paint.
New environmental regulations, and consumer demand, have led to the development of low-VOC and zero-VOC paints and finishes. Most paint manufacturers now produce one or more non-VOC variety of paint. These new paints are durable, cost-effective and less harmful to human and environmental health.
Zero VOC - Any paint with VOC's in the range of 5 grams/litre or less can be called "Zero VOC", according to an EPA standard. Some manufacturers may claim "Zero-VOC's", but these paints may still use colorants, biocides and fungicides with some VOC's. Adding a color tint usually brings the VOC level up to 10 grams/liter, which is still quite low.
Here are several companies offering low VOC and Zero VOC paints and finishes.
Aglaia - Natural finishes for many applications, from high quality wall paints to specialty paints for plasters or glazing.
Livos - Organic paint, stains, oils and waxes made using all natural ingredients. Coatings are linseed oil and citrus oil based, non toxic, low VOC and are designed primarily for wood.
Tried & True Wood Finishes - Line of zero-VOC, all natural, food-safe, biodegradable wood finishes. Distribution is primarily through mail-order catalogs.
Weather-Bos - Line of natural stains, finishes and paints. Blends of natural oils and resins designed to adhere to the wood, forming a monolithic bond.
Old Fashioned Milk Paint Company - non-toxic paint made with milk protein, lime, clay and earth pigments.
Sawyer Finn Natural Milk Paint - non-toxic milk paint in powder form, wide choice of colors.
Silacote - made from natural mineral compounds, for use on masonry, concrete and wallboard; interior/exterior.
Anna Sova - natural paints from milk casein, titanium dioxide and food-grade ingredients.
Green Planet Paints - natural clay paints for interiors using unique Mayan clay pigments.
Yolo- A line of natural paints.
Devine Color- A line of natural paints.