Knowsley Council is marking Clean Air Night (22 January) by reminding residents of their responsibilities when it comes to the use of log burners and safe heating at home.
This year’s Clean Air Night is aimed at highlighting the air pollution caused by burning wood at home. To help residents understand the guidelines around the use of log burners the council’s Environmental Health team has produced a leaflet, ‘Keep it Clean’ – a guide to smoke control areas and safe heating at home.
Improving indoor air quality is a key priority of Knowsley Council’s Air Quality Strategy 2024-2027 which aims to improve air quality across the borough, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment for residents and businesses.
The strategy was developed following extensive consultation with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. It aligns with the Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan and supports the Council’s goal of ‘Net Zero’ emissions from its own estates and services by 2040.
The plan outlines four key priorities: reducing emissions from domestic, commercial, and industrial sources; mitigating emissions from transport; raising public awareness and encouraging behaviour change; and improving indoor air quality.
What information is in the leaflet?
The leaflet explains that Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) regulations allow only certain types of fuels to be burnt in smoke control areas, and that some fuels which are not on DEFRA’s authorised fuels list, such as dried wood logs, can be used in an exempt appliance. However, householders must only use the types of fuel specified by the manufacturers of the appliance.
It outlines that under the Clean Air Act 1993 householders could receive a £300 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) if they emit smoke from chimneys in a smoke control area.
Why is it important?
The leaflet talks about the impact of poor air quality on the health and well-being of everyone, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma.
It includes a table featuring different types of heating and the pollution produced by each one – ranging from the most polluting – open fires – to the least – electric heating.
Advice to residents
There are tips to help residents reduce the pollution produced by their open fires and log burners, including:
- Switching to authorised fuels
- Avoiding open fires in smoke control areas
- Using approved stoves and heaters
- When buying an appliance, considering a DEFRA approved appliance.
To check whether your appliance is allowed, or to report illegal burning, contact the Environmental Health team at environmentalhealth@knowsley.gov.uk . Telephone 0151 443 4712.
Find out more about Keep it Clean and Knowsley’s Air Quality Strategy and monitoring here.