Epoxy resin is used to manufacture adhesives, paints, gel coats, and more. It is widely present in industry and aerospace and is also commonly used as a floor coating.

This type of resin is very popular because it is easy to use and extremely versatile. As it is increasingly used by a wider audience, it is worth examining its relationship with the environment.

What is epoxy resin?

Epoxy resin is a liquid resin that must be mixed with a hardener to obtain a solid polymer. Epoxy resins are therefore versatile and can be modified and adapted to suit specific applications. In addition, various additives can be added to epoxy resin before curing to achieve specific effects.

Epoxy resin is composed of organic elements but also, and primarily, of chemical components. It is generally derived from petroleum-based products, which can be harmful to the environment. As a result, it is not biodegradable. However, once cured, epoxy resin becomes inert and no longer poses a danger to the environment—although it still cannot decompose.

How does epoxy resin affect the environment?

The environmental impact of epoxy resin depends largely on how it is used and how leftover resin is disposed of. Epoxy resins contain substances that are harmful to the environment. When in liquid form, epoxy resin should never be poured down a sink or toilet. Not only could this clog your plumbing, but residues could also end up in the ocean and harm wildlife and plant life.

For this reason, it is recommended to choose environmentally friendly epoxy resins. Bio-based epoxy resins present fewer risks, as they are made from more than 50% natural resources.

The good news is that they are no longer as rare as they once were. Many manufacturers now produce bio-based resins using natural and largely recycled materials, such as corn oil and sugar, instead of toxic ingredients.

As a result, the toxicity of the resin is significantly reduced. However, you should always dispose of resin and its packaging according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How should leftover epoxy resin be disposed of?

If you have leftover epoxy resin that you no longer wish to use, it is recommended to take it to a recycling center. It will be treated as hazardous waste, and the facility will dispose of it in the safest way possible for the environment.

Keep the labels intact on your containers so you can follow the disposal instructions provided on the packaging, or so that recycling center staff can handle the waste properly.

If only a small amount of resin remains, it may be useful to mix it with the hardener. Once cured, it can be disposed of with household waste without posing a risk to you or the environment.

Are there more eco-friendly alternatives?

If you are concerned about the environment and your carbon footprint, opting for more eco-friendly solutions may be a good idea.

Bio-based epoxy resins remain the best alternative. Made from natural and recycled resources, they are less harmful to the environment.

Our advice

Even if you do not choose a bio-based epoxy resin, always opt for a high-quality epoxy resin. Why? Because cheaper resins are more likely to contain harmful and toxic substances. They often include solvents that cause a cloudy appearance during curing, and some may even contain asbestos residues.

For your safety and to protect the environment, avoid epoxy resins that do not originate from the European Union. They are not subject to the same regulations and may not undergo any quality or safety controls.