We asked all 32 Scottish councils what kind of paint they use and 24 said it was exclusively, or predominantly, a toxic thermoplastic paint. Eight councils did not comment.
Cold plastic paint is safer, cheaper and more sustainable, according to the European Commission. But many councils still use thermoplastic paint with a global warming potential that could be 136 per cent greater than the alternative. Thermoplastic paint has been ditched by countries such as Austria or Switzerland but is still used in 95 per cent of UK roads.
The environmental impact of thermoplastic comes not just from its lesser durability but also because it needs to be applied in a molten state, meaning a mobile apparatus – usually a lorry with an open air flame – is needed to keep the material at around 200C.
Cold plastic is more durable and does not have to be replaced so often. This reduces the frequency of work zones on the roads and contributes to accident reduction by providing more visibility and keeping roads clear of works for longer periods.
A report commissioned by Transport Scotland, published in 2015, acknowledged problems with the “durability of thermoplastic road markings”. The report showed a Glasgow contractor suggested cold plastic paint as an alternative.