Water based timber finishes

This is the timber finish we usually use that has been approved by our Conservators as suitable for use inside object showcases.
Its great and dries back to a nice finish however is very clear and tends not to bring out the warmth of the natural timber like an oil, hence the search for a natural zero VOC oil... see post below.

Natural oil finish for timber

We're using some recycled timber in an upcoming exhibition and whilst searching for suitable finishes came across this VOC free oil finish which is a by product of wood pulp... looks interesting.
synteko_natural_eco.pdf (application/pdf Object)

Paint recovery: Resene

This looks like a great program established in NZ by Resene... details here
Whilst Resene Paints are definitely sold in Aus I'm not sure if there is a similar program here, but definitely something to follow up: Paint recovery/Recyling. If anyone know more please let me know.
From the Resne Paints site:
Be PaintWise!
Bring unwanted paint and paint containers into your local Resene ColorShop and let us recycle or dispose of them responsibly. Resene will offer good quality Resene paint to community groups for reuse, recycle packaging materials that are recyclable, send solventborne paints to solvent recovery, find alternative uses for waterborne paints, such as graffiti abatement, and dispose of the rest for you.
Resene PaintWise Recycling of Unused Paint

HowStuffWorks "Paint Components: Dissecting the Grass Green Paint on Your Walls"

Here's a good intro to Low VOC paints and what to look out for:
HowStuffWorks "Paint Components: Dissecting the Grass Green Paint on Your Walls"

Rockcote - Render - Texture - Paint

Haven't used it but looks interesting:

From their website:
EcoStyle
The first high quality, Australian made, people-friendly paint with no nasty smell, fumes or VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

• Approved by the National Asthma Council Australia for interior and exterior use
• Awarded the Good Environmental Choice Label for environmental performance
• Consumer safety and environmental protection guaranteed
• Great performance, style and real depth of colour for interior and exterior use.

EcoStyle Gloss Water-Borne Enamel - People Safe Paint
Zero* VOC water borne enamel
http://www.rockcote.com.au/technical/ecogloss.html
EcoStyle Sealer/Undercoat - People Safe Paint
Ultra Low VOC Sealer/undercoat
http://www.rockcote.com.au/technical/ecosealer.html
EcoStyle Low Sheen – People Safe Paint
Zero* VOC water borne paint
Website:
Rockcote - Render - Texture - Paint

Ecospecifier Link:
http://www.ecospecifier.org/products/public/rockcote_ecostyle_paints_blp