Wood-Burning Fireplace May Not Be Environmentally Wise

Many people are resurrecting their fireplace as a way to beat the high cost of energy and reduce their carbon footprint. After all, burning wood from storm-damaged trees seems like a no-brainer – it utilizes wood that has already been downed, and saves the burning of fossil fuels which are so detrimental to our environment. But unfortunately, using our fireplace isn’t always a good environmental decision. Particulates that are released into the air from the burning of wood can be a health hazard, especially on days where fine particulates are especially high. When is it alright to use your fireplace, and when should you just turn on the heat instead?

Background – Particulates in the air that are less than 10 micrometers in diameter can cause significant health problems. Those that measure less than 2.5 micrometers are known as “fine particulates,” and can have a devastating effect on people’s health, especially those already suffering from asthma or other lung-related illnesses. Any type of combustion contributes to fine particulates, including driving a car, manufacturing goods, or burning wood in your fireplace.

When NOT to burn – In the winter time, when the temperature is cold and the air is still, we are at the highest risk of having a dangerously high fine particulate count. In these conditions, smoke is trapped close to the ground, causing unhealthy air quality conditions. In some parts of the country, the largest contributor to this winter air quality hazard is the burning of wood in a fireplace.

Health effects are serious – Some of the effects of air pollution are superficial, while others are quite serious. For instance, itchy, watery eyes or coughing and wheezing are symptoms that are relatively common. However, many other symptoms can be severe, and even life threatening. Permanent damage to the respiratory system, cardiovascular illness, and lung damage are just a few of the symptoms that can require hospitalization and even result in death.

Monitoring your area – To find out the specific air quality count in your area, do an internet search on “air quality forecast [name of your city].” Different parts of the country have different sources or agencies that report this statistic. Some will even provide an air quality map that not only allows you to see your immediate surroundings, but those adjacent to you as well. Also be advised that certain parts of the country have ordinances in place that prohibit the burning of household fireplaces during times when high concentrations of particulates are present.

Information is the best defense against environmentally damaging actions. Be sure to check your local area for fine particulate counts before lighting up that winter fire. If counts are high, use your furnace sparingly instead, and save the fire for more eco-friendly conditions.

Sources:

“Get the Facts,” SpareTheAir.org


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