A British survey showed that people support the ban on fireplaces and wood-burning stoves. The younger generations are most often in favor of the ban
A ban on fireplaces, boilers, and wood stoves should be implemented as soon as possible – at least that's what the results of a survey among residents of certain cities in the United Kingdom show. The ban is particularly favored by younger residents, who, according to the survey, are more aware of the impact of these heating sources on the climate and health.
According to a recent survey by the platform MyBuilder.com, reported on by the website CornwallLive, a third of the UK population is in favor of banning the installation and use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces, citing harmful impacts on the environment and health. However, preferences for this ban vary significantly by age group and location. It appears that younger generations especially express support for the ban, while older people tend to be less inclined towards this measure.
The survey results showed that young people up to 34 years old are particularly receptive to the ban – up to 38% of them would support it. In contrast, in the age group over 55, only just over a quarter of respondents would support the ban, specifically 27%. This points to a growing environmental awareness among younger generations, who are increasingly aware of the health and environmental risks associated with traditional wood heating.
From a regional perspective, residents of Edinburgh lead in support for the ban, with nearly half of respondents expressing agreement with ending the use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. Conversely, in the city of Norwich, only 21% of residents share such a view. These differences may reflect various cultural and environmental conditions or air quality in different parts of the country.
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Currently, there are about 1.5 million wood-burning stoves and fireplaces in British households. According to experts, these heating methods are the main source of fine particulate PM2.5 pollution, which is harmful to human health. The Clean Air Hub organization points out that burning wood in homes is the largest source of this type of pollution across the UK, even more than transport. Given that even so-called "eco-friendly" wood heating systems produce triple the pollution compared to homes without this type of heating, the question of their continued use is becoming urgent.
"Wood heating is a topic that divides people's opinions," says Jack Coles, a heating expert from MyBuilder.com. "Although they are certainly not the most environmentally friendly heating method, many still choose them for their affordability and the cozy atmosphere they create." Coles adds that there are measures that can help minimize the impact on air quality and points out that there is a wide range of alternative heating systems on the market that can replace wood-burning stoves and fireplaces.
Critics of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces often highlight the lack of public awareness about the health impacts of fine particulates on the human body. Fine particulates, such as PM2.5, are very small and can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, which leads to respiratory problems and can exacerbate conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
