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Modern EcoDesign reduces particle emissions by up to 90%

(Washington, Tyne and Wear, 12. October 2023) Burning wood produces particulate matter (PM) but the amount produced depends on how the wood is burnt. Independent research conducted by Kiwa Gastec on behalf of the SIA has shown that SIA Ecodesign Ready stoves can reduce particulate emissions by 90% compared to an open fire and 80% compared to an old stove

Energy efficiency

Replacing these models with new Ecodesign ready stoves would reduce emissions by nearly 45%, and with this reduction applied, wood burning would account for around 8% of PM2.5 emissions in the UK.

Regarding secondary particulate matter, the release of precursor gases. (e.g. VOCs and NOx) can significantly increase the mass of PM emitted from stoves, and this is an issue with open fires and older stoves. However, the SIA Review concludes that efficient modern appliances can see these reduced to near zero during stable combustion conditions.

Ecodesign stoves along with a properly installed, high quality chimney system, which is regularly maintained, reduces primary PM, secondary PM precursors and toxicity.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are compounds that easily become vapours or gases. VOCs are released from burning fuel such as gasoline, wood, coal, or natural gas. They are also released from many consumer products such as; cigarettes and solvents.

NOx is a term for nitrogen oxides that are most relevant for air pollution, namely nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Smog and acid rain are formed from NOx gases. NOx gases tend to be the result of the reaction among nitrogen and oxygen during combustion of fuels, such as hydrocarbons at high temperatures. Examples would be car engines. In urban areas with a large number of vehicles, such as London, the emissions can be a significant source of air pollution.