Wood Burning at Home

Campaign poster showing a smoke monster appearing from a chimney.

Wood burners. It's scary what they're doing to public health. Wood burners - careless not cosy.

How do you feel about open fires, wood burners and even wood smoke in London?

It has long been known that the small particles released by solid fuel burning can stay in the air and even travel long distances. These small particles, when inhaled, can increase your risk of stroke, asthma, lung cancer, heart disease and dementia.

It is estimated that around 4,000 premature deaths occur each year in London due to long-term exposure to air pollution, of which about 284 are attributable to domestic wood burning. Every one of those 284 deaths is completely avoidable.

Domestic wood burning in London has a health and economic cost of about £187 million per year. That’s a cost of £24 for every London resident, whether you burn solid fuels or not.

The most effective way of reducing pollution and protecting everyone’s health is simply to avoid burning any wood, coal, or other solid fuels at home.

Find out more about the health impacts of domestic wood burning here, support us by sharing our messages and materials, and take a step towards better air quality in London. .