There have been many speculations that the UK could ban log burners. The reason is that the most common cause of particle pollution in the UK today is said to be burning wood at home.
Interestingly, only 8% of the UK population use wood for heating, according to a government-sanctioned report in 2019.
However, the smoke particles from log burners were equivalent to approximately 38% of the pollutants 0under 2.5 microns (PM2.5) that same year.
So how will this affect those who own log burners? Are log burners going to be banned? Log burners are not going to be banned, but they are setting new regulations to the type of material you can use in them.
Read on to find out what this means if you own a wood burner.
Will Log Burners Be Banned In The UK?
The answer to whether log burners will be immently banned is no, the UK government is not banning log burners.
However, it has set out regulations to reduce emissions from them. The regulations dubbed the Clean Air Strategy came into force in May 2021.
So, what is the need for these regulations?
According to the government’s reports, particle pollutants, also called PM2.5, significantly contribute to poor air quality in the UK.
PM2.5 consequently has adverse environmental and health effects. They are so small that they can get into the human body through the airways.
The pollutants cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular illness, and even cancer. Without a doubt, it is in the interest of both environmental and human health that regulations are put in place to reduce these emissions.
These form part of the Clean Air Strategy.
Will Wood Burning Stoves Be Banned In The Future?
Currently, there are no plans to outright ban wood burning stoves.
However, future legislation may dictate users of wood burning stoves to switch to alternative heating options.
Old wood burning stoves are under fire for being dirty because of the toxic fumes they emit when being used.
If burning stoves continue to emit particle pollutants after the Clean Air Strategy in 2022, then there may be a case to ban them in the future.
However, this depends on the outcome of these regulations and future environmental policy.
Can I Still Use My Log Burner After 2022?
Yes, you can still use a wood burner after 2022.
It is important to note that the log burners per se are not being banned. Instead, regulations are in place to reduce the emissions from these stoves.
If you are using your log burner at home, you will still be allowed to do so after 2022.
However, you need to use dry wood as fuel. Also, the old wood stoves may be phased out in the future and replaced with cleaner models.
If you are thinking of purchasing one now, you should look at only getting cleaner low emissions alternatives to future proof yourself as much as possible.
However, all homeowners need to be aware that neighbours can still complain about log burners under environmental health or nuisance reasons, so you are not legally guaranteed to be able to operate one, even if it is environmentally friendly and meets the 2022 guidelines.
It will depend on your neighbours and the decision of your local council.
Wood Burning Stove Regulations 2022
The wood burning stove regulations 2022 are in force to help reduce particle pollutants in the atmosphere in the UK.
What Are The Implications Of These Regulations?
Only dry wood will be able to be used.
Wet wood emits more pollutants than dry wood. The government sees putting regulations in place as a step in the right direction to improve air quality and environmental health.
Only wood with moisture content lower than 20% will be allowed. This is to reduce the amount of water in the smoke and particle pollution being emitted from chimneys.
Kiln-dried wood will be the best option. The wood meets the standards for particle pollutants. However, it is likely to be more expensive than traditional firewood.
Also, it will now be unlawful to sell wood less than 2m cube and coal. Wet wood in volumes greater than 2m cubes must be sold with instructions on how it can be dried before it can be burned.
Additionally, solid fuel manufacturers must demonstrate that their fuels contain very little sulphur and emit little smoke.
Standardized Wood Stoves
The 2022 wood stoves regulations state that all new wood stoves must meet emission standards before being allowed on the market. This is also to help reduce particle pollutants in the atmosphere.
However, if you already own an older wood stove, this does not apply to you. You can continue using it, for the time being at least. The standards will only apply to new stoves coming onto the market.
FAQs
How Can I Tell If My Wood Is Dry?
You can check your firewood’s moisture content if you have a moisture metre. You can also check by using your hands. If the wood feels light and has cracks, it is likely dry.
Additionally, inspect the ends of the wood. If they are hollow in the centre, there is a good chance the wood is dry because of the level of shrinkage.
Will The New Wood Stove Regulations Improve Air Quality?
Yes, the 2022 wood stove regulations will help reduce particle pollutants in the atmosphere. In turn, this will improve air quality and human health.
How Do I Know If The New Stove Regulations Apply To Me?
If you are thinking of purchasing a new stove after 2022, you will need to get one that meets the emission standards. The Clean Air Act was put in place so that people can enjoy good health and environmental well-being.
How Much Will The 2022 Wood Stove Regulations Cost Me?
The new standards to reduce particle pollutants may end up costing you extra in terms of the price of the environmentally-conscious stoves purchased and the price of the ‘proper’ wood.
Some are concerned that the low emissions stove will generate less heat and end up using more fuel in the long run, however, this remains to be seen.
Will It Be Unlawful To Use My Old Wood Stove After 2022?
No, it will not be unlawful to use your old wood burner or solid fuel oven. You can continue using it.
Are Log Burners Going to be Banned? – A Summary
The regulations for wood-burning stoves in 2022 were put in place to reduce particle pollutants in the atmosphere. Whether you agree with the law or not, it will impact what fuel you can and cannot burn.
It may be more expensive to heat your home with a cleaner stove and with cleaner fuel. However, the 2022 wood stove regulations will help improve air quality and human health.
You do not need to worry about replacing old wood stoves yet because the low emissions standards will only apply to the newer stoves. However, it is possible they will eventually be banned.
