According to the most recent UK air quality study, particle emissions from home combustion have significantly decreased in recent years. Between 2020 and 2023, household biomass and solid fuel combustion significantly reduced PM2.5 and PM10 emissions, according to data released by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
A major milestone has been reached with this reduction, as residential combustion emissions are now lower than emissions from vehicle transport. Domestic combustion has resulted in a remarkable 72% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 emissions since 1990. The air quality has significantly improved as a result of these emissions reductions, especially in residential areas, making the environment healthier for everyone.
The findings have been welcomed by the Stove Industry Association (SIA), which represents suppliers, manufacturers and retailers in the UK stove industry. Andy Hill, the chair of SIA, called the decrease in emissions a “notable achievement” that reflected the industry’s continuous efforts to reduce environmental effects and enhance air quality through customer education and stove design.
Modern stoves significantly reduce emissions…
The move to contemporary, Ecodesign-compliant stoves, which can reduce particulate emissions by up to 90% when compared to open fire, has been a major factor in lowering household combustion emissions. Emissions can also be significantly reduced by replacing an outdated stove with a new model. The cleanest stoves available are promoted by the clearSkies certification program.
Emissions are greatly influenced by the type of fuel used in addition to the stove design. The value of employing high-quality dry wood instead of waste materials is becoming more and more apparent to homeowners. Customers may choose the optimum fuel for their stoves with the aid of the Woodsure Ready to Burn program, a certification program that guarantees wood fuel has an ideal moisture content below 20%.
Ongoing collaboration to drive change…
Together, the stove industry has contributed to the emissions decrease shown in the most recent DEFRA data. Manufacturers have used innovation to produce stoves that burn cleaner and more efficiently. Consumers have received guidance from industry organisations such as the SIA on how to select the best appliance and use the right fuels and methods for best results.
With more than 230 members, the SIA has spoken on behalf of the industry when negotiating measures with the government that promote lowering emissions from home heating. Regulations and incentives that promote the use of cleaner fuels and stoves have been developed as a result of these debates. Working with installers has also guaranteed that stoves are installed according to manufacturer specifications, which has further reduced emissions.
Years of industry efforts to reduce the environmental impact of heating with wood and solid fuels are reflected in the drop in particle emissions. The SIA does point out that sustained advancement necessitates constant interaction between manufacturers, retailers, and customers.
Recommendations for households…
The following SIA advice can be used by homeowners that want to further lower their emissions:
- Choose an Ecodesign stove certified by clearSkies, which attests to its exceptional efficiency and world-class low emissions.
- Verify the smoke control regulations in your location and, if necessary, select a stove model that is DEFRA-exempt.
- To choose the ideal stove size for your home’s requirements, get in touch with us here at Bowland Stoves Ltd, and one of our friendly advisors will be happy to help.
- For stove installation, work with a certified installer, such as a HETAS licensed engineer.
- Burn only fuel that is Ready to Burn certified and has less than 20% moisture.
- For proper stove maintenance and operation, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
DEFRA’s substantial emissions reduction demonstrates that heating with wood and solid fuels can effectively reduce its environmental effects. Domestic combustion is well-positioned to continue reducing emissions in accordance with UK air quality goals thanks to industry innovation and public awareness.