[rsxse240]

I wouldn't worry to much about the environmental aspect of model building to much, really. comparably, I would think that we would represent less than one billionth of a percent of the toxic waste that is put out by many other industries.

But it is a step in the right direction. I'd suggest just minimizing your waste, and recovering all you possibly can of anything sprayed, or otherwise released into the atmosphere by using filters, and spray booths with filters properly used in there. Another thing would be to reduce the volume of waste by shredding the sprues or recycling them.

Use of non toxic, and water based paints would be another way to be "Earth Friendly". Excellent results can be achieved with non toxic paints and cements, I know, I've done it. It takes practice, but it is possible.

If one were to start an incentive program to forward recycling, and reduction of pollution, people would SURELY get on the band wagon. A program that gives you free kits for every few you send back the sprues for recycling, or hobby store credits for showing a functional environmentally friendly hobby room. I'd be on it! unfortunately it cost money to be environmentally friendly. filters are expensive, and need to be replaced from time to time. That PERFECT color may not be available in acrylic based paints. etc...

I'm glad to see others are thinking more healthy rather than just dumping old thinner down the drain (I drink well water, so I don't have the added benefit of city filtration/purification) so I am directly effected by what is dumped in the ground.