In response to growing concerns about domestic air pollution, the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has released new guidelines on the use and sale of firewood. Aiming to reduce particulate matter emissions from household burning, the guidance outlines stricter rules for firewood suppliers and increases public awareness on burning practices. As wood-burning stoves continue to rise in popularity, these measures mark a significant step toward improving air quality and protecting public health across the UK.
The Impact of Domestic Wood Burning on Air Quality
Domestic combustion — excellent fuels in open fires and wood burners — has been identified as a significant source of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a pollutant known to cause severe respiratory and cardiovascular health issues. According to government data, burning wood at home contributes more PM2.5 emissions than transport, industry, or agriculture.
While wood-burning stoves are often marketed as eco-friendly heating alternatives, improper fuel use and outdated equipment can release harmful emissions. The new Defra guidelines are designed to address these concerns by setting out clear firewood quality standards and promoting best practices for cleaner burning.
Moisture Content and Wood Standards
One of the key changes introduced in the updated guidelines is enforcing moisture content limits for firewood. Under the new rules, all firewood sold in volumes under two cubic metres must have a moisture content of 20% or less. Wet or unseasoned wood, which burns inefficiently and generates excessive smoke, can no longer be sold in small quantities unless properly labelled and dried before use.
Firewood sold in larger volumes must be accompanied by advice on how to store and season the wood correctly. Retailers and suppliers must now register with a government-approved certification scheme to ensure their products meet the required standards. This aims to give consumers confidence in the fuel quality they purchase while holding suppliers accountable for environmental compliance.
Guidance for Stove Users and Households
Defra’s new guidelines also include recommendations for households using wood-burning appliances. Consumers are advised to:
- Use only ‘Ready to Burn ’-certified logs and kindling.
- Regularly maintain their stoves and flues to ensure efficient combustion.
- Avoid burning treated wood, painted timber, or waste materials.
- Install modern, Ecodesign-compliant stoves that meet higher emission and efficiency standards.
The advice is part of a broader government campaign to educate the public on the environmental impact of solid fuel use. By choosing the right wood, operating stoves correctly, and ensuring regular maintenance, households can significantly reduce their contribution to localised air pollution.
Enforcement and Certification
To support these efforts, Defra has strengthened its enforcement strategy. Local authorities have been given increased powers to investigate non-compliant fuel sales and take appropriate action against offenders. The new legislation also makes it mandatory for wood fuel suppliers to join an approved certification scheme such as Woodsure’s ‘Ready to Burn’ programme.
The certification process includes regular audits, product testing, and clear labelling requirements, making it easier for consumers to identify suitable products. Retailers who fail to comply may face fines or removal from the approved supplier list, ensuring that only high-quality firewood is available in the marketplace.
Addressing Wider Environmental Goals
The updated firewood guidelines form part of the UK’s broader Clean Air Strategy, which aims to reduce emissions across all key sectors by 2030. Improving air quality is essential to meeting the government’s legally binding targets under the Environment Act 2021 and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Encouraging cleaner home heating practices also supports the transition to more sustainable energy sources and helps protect vulnerable communities from pollution’s health impacts. With increasing evidence linking poor air quality to a range of medical conditions—including asthma, heart disease, and stroke—Defra’s action reflects the growing urgency around environmental health policy.
Industry Response and Consumer Awareness
Initial reactions from the firewood and stove industry have mainly been positive, with suppliers acknowledging the need for more explicit guidance and improved product standards. Certification bodies such as Woodsure have welcomed the move, noting that it will create a level playing field for compliant businesses and raise consumer awareness.
Retailers are now working to update packaging, marketing, and advice materials to align with the new regulations. Public campaigns are also underway to inform households of the changes and help them make environmentally responsible choices.