Reducing the impact of solid fuel burning at home.
Domestic burning is the indoor burning of solid fuels, such as wood or coal, in a stove or open fire. Using a stove or open fire at home can have a negative impact on your health and air quality.
Burning these fuels releases extremely small particles that can travel deep into the lungs and other organs, also known as PM2.5.
Exposure to PM2.5 is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and can contribute to neurological diseases and type 2 diabetes.
Many households only burn occasionally, but the combined impact of lots of homes doing this can be significant.
Recommendations for how to burn safely
Do you need to burn at all?
If you have another way to heat your home, try to avoid burning altogether to reduce pollution and protect your health.
If you do burn, choose cleaner options for your fuel and stove
Look for low emissions labelling and choose reputable suppliers. Never burn wet wood as it does not burn well and produces more harmful emissions.
Carefully check your stove’s instructions
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, including only burning suitable fuels.
Ensure your stove is correctly installed and properly maintained
Keeping your stove in good condition makes it safer. We advise your chimney is checked by a certified professional chimney sweep every year.
Be mindful of your neighbours
Smoke can drift so think about how it could affect others.