If you’re a London resident who loves the cozy warmth and ambiance of a wood-burning stove, you might be wondering if they’re still allowed in the city. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think, so let’s dive into the details.
What are Wood Burners?
Wood burners are heating appliances that burn wood for heat and often for aesthetic purposes as well. They’re typically made of cast iron or steel and include a firebox, flue pipe, and sometimes a blower to circulate warm air.
Why are Wood Burners Controversial?
The controversy surrounding wood burners stems from their potential to release harmful pollutants into the air. When wood burns, it creates fine particulate matter (PM) that can be breathed in by humans and animals. This can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and other health issues.
Are Wood Burners Banned in London?
Technically speaking, no – wood burners are not banned in London. However, there are restrictions on their use depending on where you live in the city.
In 2019, the Mayor of London launched a new campaign aimed at reducing air pollution across the city. As part of this initiative, certain areas were designated as Smoke Control Zones (SCZs), where only approved fuels can be burned in stoves and fireplaces.
If you live within an SCZ, you can only use wood-burning stoves that have been certified by DEFRA (Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs) as suitable for use in smoke control areas. These stoves have been tested to ensure they emit minimal amounts of PM into the atmosphere.
If you don’t live within an SCZ, you can technically use any type of stove or fuel – but it’s still important to be mindful of your impact on air quality. Burning wet or unseasoned wood can produce more PM than dry wood, for example. And of course, if you or your neighbors have respiratory issues, it’s important to take their health into account when using your stove.
What are the Alternatives to Wood Burners?
If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of a wood-burning stove, there are plenty of alternative heating options available. Electric fireplaces and heaters, gas stoves and fireplaces, and pellet stoves are all popular choices that don’t produce smoke or emissions.
It’s worth noting that these alternatives may have their own drawbacks – electric heaters can be expensive to run, for example – so it’s important to do your research and choose a heating option that works best for your lifestyle and budget.
Conclusion
So there you have it – wood burners aren’t necessarily banned in London, but there are restrictions on their use in certain areas. If you’re a wood-burning enthusiast who wants to enjoy a cozy fire without impacting air quality, be sure to choose an DEFRA-approved stove and use dry, seasoned wood whenever possible. And if you’re looking for an alternative heating option entirely, explore the many other options available on the market today.