The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan has used the recent cold snap, AKA – The Beast From The East as a reminder to be environmentally aware when burning wood to keep warm.
Burning wood or similar solid fuels like coal releases PM2.5. In early 2017, pollution from wood burning was a significant contributor to the highest levels of pollution recorded in London since 2011, this resulted in a winter smog, which lasted for nine days.
The Mayor is wanting to ensure that if those living in London already have a wood burning stove, or are considering purchasing one that they need to be aware of the different models on the market.
Raising Awareness:
With London pollution and air quality being in the media so much recently, this has given Ecodesign stoves a great platform to reinforce front of mind awareness among consumers, and help position Ecodesign stoves as credible, environmentally friendly ways to heat a home.
The Mayor has invested £20,000 in an information campaign, which covers newspapers ads, to encourage people to make the switch to cleaner, Ecodesign ready wood burning stoves, and to also use the best wood possible.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:
“During this cold weather, we want to ensure that air pollution caused by wood burning across the capital is kept to a minimum. The industry is already doing great work in developing less polluting ‘ready to burn’ wood and low-emission stoves, but increased effort needs to be made in raising awareness of these new designs, so Londoners have the information they need to make the right choice.
“That’s why I’m supporting this campaign, and the industry’s efforts, to clean up our filthy air. If you have to burn wood this winter, make sure you use the right fuel and the right kit– you can make a huge difference.”
The Mayor’s comments were welcomed by Woodsure, who are the UK’s only wood fuel quality assurance scheme, helping people identify and buy certified wood, that has been correctly prepared for burning.
Burning properly seasoned wood has a significant impact on a cleaner, greener environment.
The Woodsure “Ready to Burn” stamp of approval is a quick and easy way to let consumers know the wood they are burning is right for the job! Burning the right wood (properly seasoned) on an Ecodesign stove is an exceptionally clean and environmentally friendly way to warm a home.
Below is the efficiency levels of an open fire vs a stove or fire from 10 years ago, vs an Ecodesign stove or fire. The efficiency differences are dramatic and easy to see.
