Bio-based and Low VOC Paints Market
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The global bio-based and low VOC paints market is expected to grow significantly from 2025 to 2034, owing to a growing global awareness of environmental sustainability, growing health concerns about indoor air quality, and the implementation of regulations with respect to VOC emissions. Based on the latest industry estimates, the market is poised to grow heavily, driven by a consistent transition from conventional petrochemical-based coatings to renewable raw material-based ones.
The fast urbanization process, especially in emerging markets, coupled with increasing disposable incomes, has raised the demand for aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting, and sustainable paints and coatings by a long shot. According to the World Bank, more than 4.4 billion people, or more than half of the world's population, now live in cities. The trend is likely to gain momentum, with the city population set to over double by 2050, when almost 70% of the world's population will be urban.
Technological progress in the field of bio-based and lower VOC paints is encouraging the use of them more due to the many advantages - low odor, low toxicity, ease of disposal, and the ability to lower ground-level ozone and resulting smog formation. Additionally, public and private sector research developments in plant-based resin technologies and waterborne formulations provide more desirable performance attributes that have shrunk the gap between sustainability and functionality.
The low VOC and bio-based paints industry is in the middle of a revolutionary transformation, characterized by new consumer trends, regulatory evolutions, and ongoing innovation. Perhaps the most characteristic trend is the increasing consumer preference towards health-oriented and eco-friendly lifestyle options. This trend is especially evident in millennial and Gen Z groups, which emphasize sustainability in their shopping behaviors. Therefore, companies are emphasizing product transparency through specific labeling of VOC content and renewable percentages to satisfy consumer demand as well as meet regulatory requirements.
The increasing demand for green buildings in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces is a major market driver. Initiatives like the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program focus on the application of low-emission building materials. Such paints not only lower environmental impact but also enhance indoor air quality—a growing consideration in today's post-pandemic context.
Additionally, product innovation is gaining pace as firms heavily invest in bio-based technologies. AkzoNobel introduced a new-generation eco-premium interior paint line in January 2024, manufactured from more than 40% bio-based content and close to zero VOC levels. Also, Sherwin-Williams has announced an intention to establish high-performance coatings using algae- and soy-based resins. These developments are part of an industry-wide shift toward circular economy thinking and cradle-to-cradle design approaches.
The zero-VOC paints segment is expected to capture the bio-based and low VOC paints industry through 2025-2034. The expansion of this segment is attributed to the heightened recognition by consumers of the adverse effects of exposure to VOCs, which include respiratory diseases, headaches, and chronic neurological issues. As a result, consumers and commercial users are moving toward zero-VOC alternatives that do not sacrifice performance. Market leaders like Benjamin Moore and Behr are increasing zero-VOC product lines to accommodate this increasing demand, incorporating renewable oils, natural pigments, and biodegradable additives.
In addition, flat-finish and semi-gloss paints featuring low VOC emissions are established in both residential and institutional environments based on durability, washability, and better air quality characteristics. All of these developments fit nicely into indoor health and wellness trends that are increasingly driving decision-making throughout the healthcare, educational, and hospitality ecosystems.
The vehicle application market will grow substantially until 2034, and OEMs and aftermarket services are, in fact, already using sustainable materials. Stricter emissions legislation in developed markets, including the US, Europe, and China, is forcing automotive manufacturers to reduce ecological footprints not only via fuel efficiency but also material inputs. Bio-based paints are a means to reduce HAPs, extend the life of the vehicle, and meet changing ESG expectations.
Electric car manufacturers are the most active in this area. For example, Tesla has gone so far as to seek out water-based and plant-based coating systems in line with their environmental mission. It is reflected in automotive refinishing materials as well, where low-VOC coatings are increasingly desired for their quicker curing and lower shop emissions.
The construction industry also offers a huge chance. The expanding investments in green infrastructure, along with regulatory requirements for VOC-free interiors of schools, hospitals, and office spaces, are compelling the use of bio-based coatings.
The Asia Pacific will maintain a high percentage of the bio-based and low VOC paints market throughout the forecast period. The dominance in the region is due to population growth through urbanization, green building initiatives by governments, and increased automotive manufacturing. By implementing low-emission standards in the construction and industrial policy landscape, China, India, and Japan are increasing the demand for products.
For example, the Smart Cities Mission and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in India have prioritized the adoption of non-toxic and energy-efficient building products that are further supported by record-high passenger vehicle sales. As city populations grow and sustainability laws become more deeply rooted, bio-based and low VOC paints demand in residential and infrastructure construction is likely to increase.
North America is also experiencing a rebound in demand, fueled by remodeling activity, particularly in the housing market. Based on the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, home improvement expenditures in the US will reach over $500 billion in 2026, presenting an ideal environment for environmentally friendly coatings.
In Europe, the REACH and Green Deal policies are forcing manufacturers to shift from solvent-based systems to waterborne, bio-based ones. Major European cities are implementing low-emission zones and sustainable procurement, thus boosting institutional demand for compliant coatings.
Key players operating in the bio-based and low VOC paints industry are
These companies are diversifying their portfolios, working with raw materials supplier partners, and putting into practice circular economy principles to differentiate themselves.
In January 2023, Mowilex, Indonesia’s premier paint and coatings manufacturer of premium paint, announced that they have launched a new bio-based paint made from 28% renewable raw materials that also removes formaldehyde from indoor air. This innovative new product, called Naturalle™, uses a unique set of plant-based raw materials to dramatically reduce its carbon emissions while providing a durable, high-performance matte finish with low odor and no volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
In February 2024, Arkema showcased its new technologies and innovations at Paint India, with a strong focus on improving circularity, energy efficiency, decarbonization, and greater living comfort through more sustainable paint and coating solutions.