How is burning wood good for the environment?
Firewood is environmentally friendly because using it results in virtually no 'fossil' carbon dioxide being added to our present environment and thus helps minimise the effects of climate change as compared to using gas, oil or coal. Wood is known as a carbon neutral fuel, as a tree grows it gradually captures CO2 from the atmosphere and when it rots or is burned the same amount of CO2 is released. This carbon cycle is repeated as new trees grow and then die.
Woodland Management and rural economics
Cutting firewood through thinning and coppicing can re-establish traditional woodland management. It is a decline in this type of practice that has led to the loss or decline of some of our most attractive woodland wildlife. The demand for firewood supply can create local, rural jobs and revenue and can play a major role in reversing rural economic decline.
Wood is a renewable resource
Unlike coal, oil or gas, wood is a renewable resource and using it today will not prevent our children and grandchildren from using firewood in the future.
Is there enough wood in the UK to sustain demand?
Yes! There’s enough sustainable wood in the UK to fell 250,000 tonnes of wood every year for firewood. Each year more trees are being planted than are felled. As the demand for firewood grows, more and more trees are being planted!