The government under Prime Minister Andy Burnham is contemplating new restrictions on log and wood-burning stoves as part of efforts to reduce air pollution in England. These potential measures build on updated environmental plans initially introduced under the previous Labour Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer.
A recent consultation set out proposals aimed at reducing PM2.5 particulate pollution, a significant contributor to poor air quality, which includes emissions from wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. This consultation also considered tightening pollution limits within designated smoke control areas.
If implemented, these measures could effectively ban older, more polluting wood-burning appliances and potentially restrict the use of wood-burning stoves entirely in certain areas.
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The Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme (HETAS) highlighted the renewed focus on solid fuel burning regulations. A spokesperson said: “Under Andy Burnham’s government, the consultation proposing stricter emissions limits for stoves, increased penalties for selling wet wood, and new warning labels is expected to regain prominence.”
Calvin May from HETAS commented on the challenges ahead: “Wood burners are long-term fixtures in homes, often lasting fifteen years or more. While tightening smoke limits for new stoves is positive, it will take over a decade for these changes to impact most households. To achieve cleaner air more promptly, there must be a concrete strategy addressing existing open fires and outdated stoves rather than focusing solely on newer models. Without this, the proposals offer only a partial solution.”
Environmental advocate Ruth Chambers of the Green Alliance described the proposals as “an important milestone and an opportunity to leverage government influence to benefit nature.” She added, “Swift action is now crucial to restore natural environments, improve river and air quality, promote a circular economy, and help people reconnect with the natural world.”