Letter: How Can We Make Eco-Friendly Products Preferable?

Published on: 10 May, 2026
Updated on: 10 May, 2026

NASA’s Artemis spacecraft

From Jim Allen

In response to: Why We Need to Treat Earth Like a Spaceship

If we agree with this analogy (I do like the concept), we need to ask the question: what is the way forward?

Consider the following timeline regarding the exterior painting of my residence:

In 2004, an oil-based system was applied, comprising a preservative, primer, undercoat, and gloss topcoat. The paint demonstrated commendable longevity, necessitating a repaint only in 2012. At this time, the paint formulation had evolved, and a new undercoat and topcoat were applied.

However, this application experienced premature failure in 2014. Subsequent repaints occurred in 2019 and 2023, utilising an eco-friendly, water-based product advertised with a 10-year lifespan. Regrettably, this product failed within a single year.

Consequently, a complete stripping and repainting with oil-based paint, including primer, undercoat, and topcoat, is planned for 2026. It is noteworthy that despite these challenges, no rot has been observed, largely attributable to the previously used oil-based wood preservative, which is no longer available.

Under a scenario utilising traditional, durable paint, the expected repainting schedule would have been 2012, 2020, and 2028. In contrast, the “planet-saving” paint necessitated repaints in 2012, 2014, 2019, 2023, and 2026. Each instance involved significant effort, including sanding, dust generation, white paint application, brush cleaning, and associated travel.

The decision was beyond my control due to the “Save the Planet” initiative, which unfortunately did not account for durability and performance.

This same principle extends to various domains such as electric vehicles, all-electric residences, 15-minute cities, and factory farming.

I believe that the Australian Aboriginal philosophy, which advocates for taking only what is necessary rather than what is desired, offers a progressive path forward. Similarly, the Kikuyu people of Kenya exemplify a commitment to intergenerational land stewardship, while the English countryside convention promotes leaving no trace beyond memories and footprints.

Humanity has unfortunately disregarded the natural order, and it is imperative that we proceed with caution to ensure that any proposed solutions do not exacerbate the existing challenges.