BRUSSELS - A recently issued European Union proposal for limits on VOCs in coatings in Europe closely mirrors recommendations made by CEPE, the European Council of the Paint, Printing Inks and Artists' Colours Industry, industry sources said.

The European Commission proposal calls for a range of VOC limits on decorative (architectural) coatings and varnishes and automotive-refinish products. The proposal is designed to cut VOC emissions from decorative paints and varnishes by about 50%, with the limits scheduled to go into effect in two phases - in 2007 and 2010, CEPE said.

The proposed first phase of the proposal includes VOC limits ranging from 50 grams per liter (g/L) for waterborne primers to 750 g/L for specialty, or "binding," solventborne primers. The limits will be lowered "significantly" in the second round of VOC reductions in 2010, CEPE said.

More information is available on the CEPE website, www.cepe.org, and the European Commission website, at www.europa.eu.int/comm/environment/air/stationary.htm#3