Wood Fuel and the Environment: Cleaner Burning at Home
As we all become ever more aware of issues around climate change and the importance of sustainability, people are increasingly looking for things they can do – however small – to make a difference. Despite this increasing awareness, many people may not realise that the type of wood they burn at home can produce more emissions, increase their exposure to pollutants and contribute to the problem.
Woodburning stoves and outdoor appliances such as firepits have seen a recent rise in popularity and domestic burning is now the single biggest source of particulate matter (PM) emissions in the UK. Particulate matter is a mixture of extremely small particles in the air, including things like acids and metals that, when breathed in, can contribute to a wide range of health problems. The Government’s Clean Air Strategy sets out measures to tackle this. Some people are concerned it will mean they can no longer enjoy their open fires or curl up by a blazing stove, but this is not the case at all.
How will the clean air strategy affect me?
Rather than preventing the use of wood fuel, the Clean Air Strategy lays out plans to encourage “cleaner burning”. It outlines new legislation that will be introduced to ban the sale of the most polluting fuels. By making sure that only clean, dry wood with a moisture content of less than 20% is sold and burned, household PM emissions can be drastically reduced – and you can still enjoy a good old blaze without worrying about sending nasty stuff into the atmosphere.
Which wood can I burn?
Identifying wood that will meet these standards is simple – just look for the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo. Led by Woodsure, the UK’s only wood fuel quality assurance scheme, the ‘Ready to Burn’ initiative is backed by the government to help people to easily recognise which wood is ready for immediate use. Whilst wet wood produces harmful emissions, burns inefficiently and can damage your appliances, ‘Ready to Burn’ kiln dried logs can reduce emissions by 50% and, because they burn more efficiently, can also save you money. They’re good for the planet and your pocket!
You can read more about the ‘Ready to Burn’ scheme and why it makes a difference https://logsonline.co.uk/woodsure-ready-to-burn-accredited-retailer
Where’s my wood from?
Careful management of our woodland is vital if we want to make sure it can be enjoyed by generations to come so, for further peace of mind, look for wood with FSC certification. This shows the timber has been sourced from responsibly managed forests where local plants and wildlife have been protected.
A better burn that protects the planet
Helping create a healthier world really does start at home and the Clean Air Strategy highlights some of the ways we can make a difference. By using Woodsure approved fuel you can enjoy a cleaner, greener fire that is more efficient. A better burn all round.
All our logs are certified Ready to Burn FSC approved. Explore our product range here.
