If you've ever wondered about the toxicity of paint, you're on to something.
Paint is full of VOC's, or Volatile Organic Compounds. These are toxic formulations that continue emitting into the room three and a half years after the paint job.
Examples of these are acetone, formaldehyde and ammonia. There are some estimates that 10% of the ozone depleting substances in the urban United States come from paints and other surface coatings. The toxins in paint are also said to be responsible for increased respiratory related diseases and cancer.
The good news: there are non toxic paints on the market, and this video offers a guide as to exactly what to look for.
For a few dollars more per can, you can avoid this toxicity in your home environment.
However, be aware that when you add colorants to these non-toxic paints, the effect may be just as bad as using regular paint. Please research products thoroughly for your particular project and needs.