A method for processing paint overspray from an emulsion chemistry process which includes collecting the paint overspray in an aqueous medium, subjecting the paint overspray to a chemical treatment to form an aqueous suspension or emulsion of paint overspray solids having a first solids content and processing the aqueous suspension or emulsion of paint overspray solids to form: i) a light phase that has a second solids content that is lower than the first solids content; and ii) a heavy phase that has a third solids content that is higher than the first solids content. The light phase is recycled back into the process together with dispersion chemistry contained therein and the heavy phase can be used as a coating composition or as a combustible fuel or fuel additive.