Pollutants From Wood Burning Stove Info

Domestic burners are appliances such as stoves, fireplaces, and firepits that are used to burn fuel in our gardens or homes.

Domestic burning is known to contribute significantly to PM2.5 levels, which is hazardous to health. The World Health Organisation (WHO) provides information on the health risks of indoor and outdoor air pollution. It is the largest source of small particle air pollution in the UK - PM2.5 emissions from domestic burning accounted for 43% of total PM2.5 emissions in 2019.

Burning anything releases particulates in your home and into the atmosphere.

Only use the stove when necessary
If it's your only source of heating, consider a grant or if a tenant, contact your local authority
Avoid burning when air quality is likely to be poor, when the weather is still
Keep your stove well maintained and service it regularly

In 2020, Defra launched the Burn Better information campaign to raise awareness about the impact of domestic burning on the air we breathe and provide practical guidance on the rules of smoke control areas. The Smoke Control Area Map highlights where the smoke control areas are located. In a smoke control area, residents are only allowed to burn authorised fuels in an open fireplace or an exempt appliance. In the different countries of the UK appliances are exempted separately – the Defra search tool can quickly highlight which appliances are exempt and which fuels are authorised.