The festive image of Christmas stockings hung by a roaring log fire is increasingly being linked to a seasonal rise in air pollution, as wood-burning stoves gain popularity in UK households.
Sales of log burners have surged in recent years, but England’s Chief Medical Officer, Sir Chris Whitty, has warned that the trend could reverse years of progress in improving air quality as homes move away from coal.
His warnings, tucked into a detailed 431-page government report released this month, have reignited concerns about the environmental and health impacts of wood-burning.
Pollution Peaks During Winter
Research from Imperial College London reveals that levels of polluting particulate matter caused by burning wood peak during winter, with the highest concentrations recorded in the evenings.
These particles, known for their harmful effects on respiratory health, are raising alarms among environmental experts.
Larissa Lockwood, Director of Clean Air at the charity Global Action Plan, echoed Whitty’s concerns. She noted that many homeowners are installing log burners primarily for their aesthetic appeal rather than necessity.
“It’s a growing trend,” Lockwood said, pointing out that most buyers already have alternative heating options but are drawn to log burners for the cosy ambiance they provide.
Lockwood shared her own experience, admitting she installed a log burner for its visual appeal but later stopped using it after learning about the associated health risks, describing it as an “expensive mistake.”
Sales Surge Despite Warnings
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) reports a steady increase in stove sales, with 163,000 units sold in the UK in 2023 compared to 128,000 in 2017. The trade body insists the industry is “fully committed to improving air quality.”
However, a recent study by researchers at the University of Birmingham has highlighted the environmental impact of this growing trend.
A Cosy Tradition Under Scrutiny
While wood-burning stoves are often viewed as a charming addition to homes, experts are urging homeowners to reconsider their use due to the health and environmental risks.
As the winter months see a rise in particulate pollution from log fires, the push for cleaner alternatives is gaining momentum.
