Land Energy is part of the solution
A recent Guardian article reported that eight councils across the UK have received legal threats alleging that flyers criticising wood burners may be in breach of advertising codes. Claims from campaign group Mums for Lungs that burning in your home increases toxic air pollution for you and your neighbours were alleged to breach advertising standards. Anti-wood burner campaigns are hot.
John Westmacott CEO of Land Energy responded with the following:
‘I read your recent article on wood-burning stoves and council campaigns with interest. I would encourage you to review the latest emissions data published by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), which provides important context.
According to DEFRA’s most recent emissions figures, PM2.5 emissions in the UK have fallen by around 75% since 1990. While domestic combustion is often highlighted, it represents around 12% of total PM2.5 emissions, meaning approximately 88% comes from other sources.
DEFRA’s figures show a broad mix of contributors: non-exhaust road transport emissions (tyres, brakes and road wear) account for 18%, industrial combustion for 10%, construction activity for 4%, energy industries and quarrying 4%.
These figures highlight an important point: particulate emissions originate from a wide range of sources, with no single activity dominating. Road transport, industrial processes and construction collectively account for the majority of emissions.
It is also worth noting that PM2.5 emissions from domestic combustion fell by 7% between 2023 and 2024, and by around 76% since 1990.
Given the complexity of the issue, full context is essential for informed public debate. Reflecting the broader DEFRA data, alongside discussion of domestic burning, would help ensure the public receives a complete and proportionate picture of UK air quality trends.
Groups such as Mums for Lungs understandably focus on urban air quality, but the data shows that emissions from road users, SUVs, tyre and brake wear, and construction activity collectively outweigh those from domestic wood burning several times over. Addressing air quality requires a balanced focus on all major sources.’
Read the full Guardian article here