Uttlesford District Council backs clean air campaign warning of dangers to health and environment from open fires and log burners

A national campaign warning of the harm log fires can cause to health and the environment is being backed by Uttlesford District Council as part of its Clean Air Project.

The authority said that a recent survey revealed around 80% of homeowners in Saffron Walden had a log burner, open fire or both in their homes.

It is working with environmental charity Global Action Plan on a campaign to bust some of the common myths about domestic wood burning.

Burning wood produces harmful air pollution and carbon emissions. It is the largest source of small particle air pollution (PM2.5) in the UK – breathing in unhealthy levels of PM2.5 can increase the risk of health problems like heart disease and asthma.

Larissa Lockwood, director of clean air at Global Action Plan, said: “Up to now it’s been easy to associate a roaring fire with cosiness, but the uncomfortable truth is that burning wood hurts your health, wallet and the planet.

“It’s great to see Uttlesford District Council leading on this issue by sharing these facts about wood burning, helping to protect people in the community and ensure that everyone can make informed decisions about how to heat their homes this winter.”

The campaign coincides with Clean Air Night on Wednesday January 22, a nationwide initiative which provides an opportunity for people to learn the facts about wood burning so they can make informed decisions to protect their health, their families and their community.