Wood-Burning Stoves: Cleaner, Smarter, and Here to Stay

Setting the record straight on modern wood heating, air quality, and sustainability

Setting the Record Straight

There’s been a lot of noise recently about wood-burning stoves — but here are the facts: Wood-burning stoves are not being banned.

 Modern Eco Design-compliant stoves are part of the solution — helping reduce emissions, improve air quality, and support renewable energy goals.
(Sources: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S095965262103523X?via%3DihubRenewable energy proof reference)

At Poujoulat UK, we’re taking an active role in countering misinformation with independent research, national awareness campaigns, and transparent communication.

“Modern wood heating is cleaner, safer, and more efficient than ever — it’s a key part of the UK’s renewable future.”

— Anthony Reed-Forrester, Managing Director, Poujoulat UK


Our Industry Response

Poujoulat UK has launched two nationwide poster campaigns  to ensure that evidence-based information reaches the public .

 Campaign 1: “Myth Busted”

Our first poster focuses on the real environmental progress of modern wood-burning:

Myth Buster Poster

- Cleaner combustion means fewer fine-particle emissions (PM2.5)

- Better stove design delivers more heat with less wood

- Responsible burning supports UK forestry, jobs, and the rural economy


 

 

 

Campaign 2: “Here to Stay”

This campaign highlights the facts that matter most to homeowners:

Here to Stay Poster

- 90% fewer emissions than open fires

- 80% cleaner than older stove models

- Fully EcoDesign-compliant and future-ready

- Use Ready to Burn certified fuel for the best performance

- Buying high-quality, sustainably sourced, dry wood reduces fuel costs and your carbon footprint.

Visit readytoburn.org to find certified suppliers.

Together, these campaigns cut through misinformation and demonstrate that wood-burning done right helps the environment — not harms it.


Independent Science: The CÉRIC Report

To ensure this discussion is rooted in data, Poujoulat commissioned a CÉRIC laboratory study — a COFRAC-accredited research organisation specialising in environmental performance testing.

Download the CERIC report summaryThe 2024 study, “Opportunities for Domestic Wood Heating Growth”, predicts that:

- Even with a 32% increase in wood-burning appliances by 2035, overall wood use will drop 15%

- Replacing old stoves and open fires with EcoDesign models could reduce PM2.5 emissions by 60%

- A- Wood heating contributes the same daily energy output as a power station during peak winter

This study clearly shows that modern wood heating can expand responsibly — improving air quality, not compromising it.

Download the full CÉRIC Report: Opportunities for Domestic Wood Heating Growth (PDF)


Additional Reading: Stay Informed — Not Misled

We encourage readers to consult reliable, evidence-based sources:

SIA: Modernisation not prohibition

SIA: Get both sides of the story this Clean Air Night

SIA: Wood stove emissions decrease despite record sales

HETAS: Beyond the headlines: understanding complaints about wood burning

HETAS: Practicle solutions, not blanket bans

HETAS: Comparing stoves with oranges: the need for clarity

Chesneys: Will wood-burning stoves be banned in the UK?


In Partnership For Cleaner Air

Poujoulat UK continues to collaborate with manufacturers, retailers, installers, and the wider industry to ensure that wood heating evolves responsibly.

By upgrading old appliances and educating homeowners, we can grow the use of wood heating and cut emissions —
a true win-win for people and the planet.

Together, we can keep Britain warm, sustainable, and well-informed.

Keep Warm with Confidence — Wood-Burning Stoves Are Here to Stay