New analysis reveals that wood burners are linked to around 2,500 deaths a year, but experts say burning the right fuel can dramatically reduce the risk whilst also stopping any contributions to the UK’s air pollution problem.
As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, more of us are turning to log burners and open fires to stay warm. But this comfort has come under threat after new research has linked domestic wood burning to around 2,500 premature deaths each year in the UK.
The study, published by Global Action Plan, revealed that burning wet or unseasoned wood is a major contributor to harmful air pollution, releasing fine particles that can enter the lungs and bloodstream. These emissions have been connected to respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, diabetes and asthma.
As awareness rises, so too does demand for cleaner, responsibly sourced fuels.
Fire&Flame, a sustainable, Ready to Burn-certified home-fuel brand from Rectella, is helping consumers make greener heating choices.
With more than 1.5 million wood-burning stoves in UK homes, this heating method is proving to be a great secondary heating option, especially during energy price spikes. But to burn safely and responsibly, you must burn certified products, not just wood you forage, old pallets, or collect from the garden.
Reported in Defra’s Clean Air Strategy, wood with more than 20% moisture produces up to twice as many emissions as dry, seasoned logs. When burned, the moisture prevents efficient combustion, creating thick smoke and fine particles that escape into homes and up our chimneys.
“Ready to Burn” certified fuels, such as kiln-dried hardwood or compressed heat logs, burn hotter, cleaner, and longer. So, not only does this mean less harmful smoke and pollution, but it also means less wasted energy and lower costs over time.
“Wet wood isn’t just inefficient, it’s dangerous,” says Caroline Morris of Fire&Flame.
“A real fire can absolutely be part of a cosy, sustainable home, but only if you’re using the right kind of fuel.”
Products which carry a Ready to Burn logo show that:
- Wood (sold in volumes of less than 2m3) has a moisture content of 20% or less
- Manufactured solid fuels (such as briquettes and fire logs) meet sulphur and smoke emission limits
“When you choose fuels that carry the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo, you can be safe in the knowledge that you’re picking some of the cleanest options out there and reducing the health risks and keeping you and your family safe while enjoying your fire,” continues Caroline Morris.
“While wood burners and open fires can provide comfort and warmth during the winter months, it is crucial to prioritise air quality and health by selecting the right fuels.”