Recycle Your Old Paint With EarthPaint.org in Hoffman Estates

Hoffman Estates residents interested in getting rid of leftover cans of unused paint now have a way. Paint recycling nonprofit EarthPaint.org will collect residents' cans of unwated water-based latex paint and stains at the village's recycling event on Saturday, Aug. 17.

"Many people don't know what to do with their leftover paint once they are finished with a project or no longer need it. They often know they can't throw it away, and the paint cans accumulate," said Chris McCarthy, founder of EarthPaint.org. "By recycling them, people can not only clear up space, but also help the environment by keeping the paint cans out of landfills and reducing the carbon footprint of the paint industry."

Wood Dale-based EarthPaint.org collects unwanted, water-based paint and recycles it into a high-quality, affordable product that can be used indoors and outdoors. The paint is sold through Habitat for Humanity REstores in Chicago, Chicago Heights, Elgin and Joliet, the Rebuilding Exchange in Bucktown, and on Amazon.

"Our recycled paint product offers one-coat coverage that homeowners and contractors like because it means they spend less time painting and more time doing things they find really valuable," McCarthy said.

EarthPaint.org does more than protect the environment. It employs a dozen people with intellectual or developmental disabilities through an agreement with the Little City Foundation.

"Our team is really proud of the work they do. They make an incredible product, and they have fun doing it," McCarthy said. "We like to think we're not only creating a great, sustainable product, but we're also creating opportunities."

At the Hoffman Estates event, EarthPaint.org will charge residents a fee to collect their water-based latex paint and stains. These fees go to fund the charity's operations, including its ability to pay its employees. EarthPaint.org will charge $10 for a 5-gallon bucket; $4 for a gallon of paint, and $2 for a quart. Hoffman Estates residents must show a photo ID.

EarthPaint.org will not accept oil-based paint, oil-based stain, spray or aerosal paint products, spackle or joint compound, varnish, solvents or chemicals, or driveway sealant.

The recycling event, which includes electronics, takes place at the Public Works Center, 2305 Pembroke Ave., from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

For more information about EarthPaint.org, visit earthpaint.org.