What health problems are linked to domestic burning in the UK?

Domestic burning is linked to new cases and exacerbation of conditions like diabetes, asthma, lung cancer, and strokes.

How much money could the UK save by stopping domestic burning?

Stopping non-essential domestic burning could save the UK up to £54 million in healthcare costs and £164 million in productivity annually.

Are wood-burning stoves bad for air quality in the UK?

Yes, air pollution from wood-burning stoves is considered the most polluting way to heat a home in the UK.

Home / Health / Stop Burning Fuel: Save £164M & Lives

Stop Burning Fuel: Save £164M & Lives

1 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Domestic burning causes thousands of new diabetes and asthma cases annually.
Ending non-essential burning could save UK £54M yearly in healthcare.
Household fires are the most polluting way to heat homes in the UK.

Domestic fuel burning significantly contributes to public health issues, causing an estimated 3,741 new diabetes cases and 1,493 new asthma cases annually in the UK. These health impacts place a considerable burden on NHS resources, with significant economic repercussions.

Research indicates that ceasing all non-essential domestic burning could yield substantial economic benefits. This measure is projected to save up to £54 million in annual healthcare costs and prevent £164 million in lost productivity. These financial advantages far outweigh those achievable through existing Smoke Control Area legislation alone.

Air pollution from domestic burning, including fine particles, is absorbed into the bloodstream, exacerbating or causing serious health conditions. This pollution affects not only households but also surrounding communities. Reducing domestic burning is presented as a dual benefit: improving public health and mitigating economic losses from work absences.

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