The “Centre for Cities” annual study of the UK has highlighted the dangers of air pollution across many of the U.K.’s major cities. While there is a huge North-South divide with regards to particulate matter (PM2.5), with the South fairing worst, the Scottish government has already promised action in the short term. However, there are some obvious discrepancies in the report and concerns that wood-burning stoves are yet again unfairly taking the brunt of the criticism.
Long-term air pollution
The report suggests that one in 29 deaths in Scotland’s large towns and cities is now linked in some shape or form to air pollution. Quite how air pollution equates to JUST wood-burning stoves in the mind of politicians and regulators is unclear. There are numerous ways in which air pollution is created with ever more efficient wood-burning stoves having a reduced impact. It is common knowledge that PM2.5 particles are extremely dangerous because they can be inhaled deep into the lungs. This can lead to an array of medical conditions such as asthma and other more serious illnesses.