London mayor seeks ban on wood-burning stoves in high-pollution districts
Mayor Sadiq Khan has asked the government for powers to prohibit wood-burning stoves, bonfires and solid-fuel use in designated zero-emission zones across London.
Sadiq Khan is pressing for expanded powers to outlaw wood-burning stoves, bonfires and other solid-fuel fires in targeted zero-emission zones throughout London. In a submission to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, he asked for the ability to impose tougher restrictions beyond the existing smoke-control areas limited to council-owned land. The proposal is driven by studies showing domestic wood burning releases fine particulate matter (PM2.5) comparable to cigarette smoke and linked to serious lung damage.
While Khan cites the success of the Ultra Low Emissions Zone in cutting pollution-related deaths, opponents such as Sir James Cleverly claim the plan creates needless red tape for residents. Defra responded that it will support a further consultation on granting additional powers to the mayor or boroughs, emphasizing the heightened risk of pollution in densely populated London. The mayor’s office has not yet commented on the latest development.
Why it matters
Restricting wood-burning stoves could improve air quality and public health in densely populated London neighborhoods.
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