Wood burning: sustainable and clean?

In order to achieve the climate targets in the building sector, we must move away from oil, gas and coal. Heating with wood as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels must be viewed critically, because it is the largest source of harmful particulate matter and black carbon in Europe. Moreover, it is by no means climate-neutral. If wood is used, then this should primarily be in durable goods instead of burning it. For climate protection in the building sector, better insulated houses and the switch to more environmentally friendly alternatives - i.e. especially heat pumps and solar thermal energy - are absolutely central. If such heating alternatives are not an option in individual cases, heating with wood is only an acceptable solution if the fuel comes from a sustainable source, is burnt efficiently and a precipitator or filter is used.

Which stoves are low-emission and what does clean heat look like?

About Clean Heat

Environmental Action Germany (DUH) and Green Transition Denmark (formerly known as Danish Ecological Council) are fighting for less pollution due to residential wood burning. Clean Heat was funded by the LIFE programme of the EU from August 2015 until December 2019. With your contribution we can continue our work for cleaner air in Europe!

Support us!
Learn more about the project

Climate friendly?

Most people think residential wood burning is CO2 neutral.

What everyone can do

Choosing a low emission stove or another eco-friendly heat source helps to reduce fine particle emissions.

Clean air policies

Politicians and authorities play an important role to contribute to better air quality reduce the impact of wood burning.