Regarding trends, Defra say: “2023 PM2.5 and PM10 emissions were at the lowest level since emission estimates have been calculated.” (since 1970).
With all the negative press we could be forgiven for thinking PM air pollution in the UK is increasing and it’s always stoves that are blamed. by some media. But exactly the opposite is true.
See all the Defra stats here. These numbers help us understand the reality of an improving situation.
Domestic combustion: This means fuels burnt indoors or outside including stoves, open fires, cookers, BBQ’s, garden bonfires, firepits, smokers etc.
With respect to PM from domestic combustion Defra say: From 2020 through to 2023, PM10 and PM2.5 emissions from the domestic combustion of all types of fuel fell by 17 per cent.
Multiple factors are reducing the impact from domestic burning including:
- Open fires being replaced by much more efficient stoves
- Older less efficient stoves being replaced with new cleaner ones
- No coal burning in England
- Drier wood fuels
- Better consumer awareness on operating stoves efficiently
- Better design and maintenance of chimneys from a more knowledgeable workforce (if the chimney’s not working properly, the fire can’t work efficiently).
- More sweeps giving bespoke advice on best practice to reduce emissions one customer at a time.
These factors are all growing in their effect and will continue to help improve air quality.
This graph shows sources of PM and compares past years.
