Council urges people to consider wood burner risks

People are being urged to consider the risks of pollution from wood burners on Clean Air Night.

Guildford Borough Council said it wanted to raise awareness of the environmental and health risks associated with wood burning.

The authority in Surrey is urging residents to support Clean Air Night on Thursday, which encourages people to use alternative heating methods.

The event is run by UK charity Global Action Plan and funded by Impact on Urban Health, which is linked to the Guy's & St Thomas' Foundation charity.

Councillor Merel Rehorst-Smith said: "Burning wood might feel comforting but it can come at a real cost to our health and our community."

She said the council does not want to "spoil anyone's enjoyment or say you should never use a wood-burning stove", adding: "Just be mindful of the impact."

Rehorst-Smith said by pledging to go fire-free for one night or longer, or to seek alternatives, people could reduce harmful pollution and protect the wellbeing of families and neighbours.

The council said wood burning led to air pollution that could be inhaled, cause heart and lung disease and also increase the risk of diabetes and dementia.

It said the Global Centre for Clean Air Research at Surrey university had found even modern stoves, which reduce some emissions, can still release ultrafine particles.

Most UK homes have limited ventilation, especially during winter, the council added, and tiny particles could enter living spaces and contribute to indoor air pollution.

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