DIY

Paint
A lot of paint actually releases chemicals for years after application. These are called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).   They used to be essential for the production but due to demand more and more companies are producing low or zero VOC paints so it is worth checking the tin before buying!  You can go a step further and get paints that do not use any harmful chemicals (and do not give off the strong harmful odour on application).  The www.greenshop.co.uk do a large range of natural paints.

Paint Stripper
Paint stripper is lethal stuff!   Read a tin of it and you will see all the hazard signs and instructions to wear gloves to avoid skin burns. You can get non toxic  water based paint and varnish stripper that is environmentally friendly and has the benefit of not giving off harmful fumes or causing skin burns.  The www.greenshop.co.uk stock a range of such paint/varnish strippers.