The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has urged the government to be ‘proportionate’ amid news that it is considering mandating health warning labels on new wood‑burning stoves.
Defra yesterday (Jan 22) opened a consultation on the idea as part of a nationwide consultation on domestic burning.
The proposal, which would only apply to new stoves placed on the market, suggests ratings of A-C would be given showing how much particulate matter the stove emits.
A consultation on the health warnings said the warning labels could read: “Please be aware that this appliance emits air pollution into and around your home which can harm your health.”
Another illustrative example warned of the “negative impact on the health of you and your family”.
Ministers are proposing an 80% cut in the legal smoke‑emission limit, reducing the maximum output from five grams per hour to just one gram per hour, although industry data suggests that around 70% of models tested since 2018 already meet the tougher standard.
The consultation also proposes a major increase in penalties for retailers who sell damp or unseasoned wood, which produces significantly more smoke than dry logs.
Fines could rise from £300 to £2,000, reflecting growing concern about the contribution of domestic burning to poor air quality.
The proposals mark the most significant tightening of stove regulations in years amid growing anti-stove campaigning.
A spokesperson for the SIA commented: “We note that Defra has launched a consultation on domestic solid fuel burning, including proposals around labelling and health warnings on stoves and fuels.
“The Stove Industry Association recognises the importance of further improving air quality and is currently reviewing the consultation in detail ahead of preparing a formal response.
“As with any regulatory intervention, it is important that any measures introduced are proportionate, evidence-based and, most importantly, achieve the intended outcomes.”
The development, which came the day after ‘Clean Air Night’ has been welcomed by anti-stove campaigners such as Global Action Plan and Mums For Lungs, however both are still pushing for an outright ban on domestic wood burning.
There has been no indication from the government that it supports a total ban.
The consultation, launched jointly with devolved administrations, will run until March 19 and forms part of a wider effort to cut emissions from domestic heating.
To take part in the consultation go to: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/domestic-burning/consultation-on-solid-fuel-burning