Wood-burning stoves and open fires are contributing to nearly 2,500 deaths per year in the UK, according to a new analysis. The study, commissioned by the charity Global Action Plan and Hertfordshire County Council, found that the toxic pollution from domestic burning also costs the NHS over £54 million annually.
The burning of wood and coal in homes is one of the largest sources of fine particulate matter, which can cause heart and lung disease. The analysis linked this pollution to 3,700 cases of diabetes and 1,500 cases of asthma each year, though researchers believe the true health impacts are likely higher. More than 90% of people have alternative heating sources, and only about 10% burn fuel out of necessity, with many using stoves for aesthetic reasons.
Enforcing existing smoke control area regulations would prevent only around 320 deaths a year and save about £11 million in healthcare costs. Recent data shows 15,000 complaints were made to local authorities about wood burning in the past year, but only 24 fines were issued. Larissa Lockwood of Global Action Plan said: 'We all need to stay warm this winter [but] an open fire or wood-burning stove is the most polluting way to heat a home.'
Dr Abi Whitehouse, a respiratory children's doctor in east London, warned that smoke from wood burners can worsen asthma symptoms and trigger attacks. The analysis, conducted by environmental consultancy Ricardo, is likely to underestimate health damage as it only considers outdoor pollution; indoor exposure is significantly higher. The report stated: 'There is no safe level of air pollution.'
The government has promised to tighten emissions limits for new stoves in smoke control areas, but no legislation has been introduced yet. A spokesperson said: 'Air pollution is a public health issue... we are committed to reducing emissions from domestic burning.' About 95% of indoor burners in the UK use wood or wood plus coal, and even approved 'eco' stoves produce 450 times more pollution than gas heating.
