How Eco-Friendly Are Stoves?

Stoves have long been popular in British homes. Their appeal is rooted in design and energy efficiency.

A woodburner’s real flames offer a focal point in the room and satisfy the need for a cosy feel during the winter months, as well as potentially helping you save money by lowering household bills.

For years these appliances have been hailed as eco-friendly, gaining a big following among the environmentally conscious. However, they have recently been at the centre of controversy due to criticism by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. The former MP has called for a ban on burning wood in the capital to minimise the pollution levels faced by the residents – but is he right to do so?

Future proofing

While burning timber does cause the release of CO2 and particulate matter, the story isn’t as simple as that. Suppliers have long been working towards producing greener stoves to improve performance and keep pollution to a minimum.

“Woodburners have progressed greatly in the last few years,” says Vicky Naylor from ACR Stoves. “Under current regulations, they are required to have minimum efficiency levels and need to be DEFRA exempt for burning wood in smoke controlled areas.”

The standards will soon be even tighter. The European Union’s Ecodesign Directive – due to be introduced in the UK in 2022 – is set to establish mandatory requirements for products to reduce energy consumption and minimise emissions. Ahead of the legislation, the Stove Industry Alliance (SIA) has launched an Ecodesign Ready label for appliances that comply with the future emission limits – 55% lower than current DEFRA exempt units.

The post How Eco-Friendly Are Stoves? appeared first on Build It.

Article reference How Eco-Friendly Are Stoves?