The End of an Era: Traditional House Coal Ban Takes Effect in England
On May 1st, 2023, the sale of traditional house coal for home heating purposes was banned. This move, driven by the UK government's commitment to cleaner air, marks the end of an era for a fuel that has been a mainstay in British homes for centuries.
The Drive for Cleaner Air
Air pollution has become a growing concern in the UK, with significant health impacts. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a major pollutant released from burning traditional house coal, can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, causing various health problems like asthma, heart disease, and even lung cancer.
The government, recognising the need for cleaner air, introduced the Air Quality (Domestic Solid Fuels Standards) (England) Regulations 2020. This legislation targeted traditional house coal due to its high emission levels and aimed to transition households towards cleaner alternatives.
The Ban and its Impact
The ban applies to the sale of all types of traditional house coal in England, including bagged, loose, and open sacks. This means that coal merchants and fuel suppliers can no longer sell this fuel for domestic use. While the ban has caused some disruption for households reliant on traditional house coal for heating, it is expected to have a significant positive impact on air quality.
Exemptions to the Ban
There are limited exemptions to the ban:
- Heritage Sites: Heritage sites, such as steam railways and museums that use traditional methods for heating or powering steam engines, are also exempt from the ban. This allows them to continue their operations and preserve cultural heritage.
Alternatives to House Coal
Following the house coal ban to fuel your stove or open fire, its now time to use one of our great alternatives. The Air Quality Act outlaws the sale of wet wood and house coal with these being the most polluting.
Our quality products have the certificated Ready To Burn logo on them giving confidence in their compliance to Air Quality Act. Ready to Burn is operated by Woodsure and HETAS.
Our Kiln Dried Logs are sourced from saw mills where the moisture content remains below the required level to reduce pollution.
Our Smokeless fuels including Blaze and Cosilite give the look and feel of burning coal without the smoke or environmental damage of house coal.
The Road Ahead
The ban on traditional house coal represents a significant step towards cleaner air in England. While there will undoubtedly be an adjustment period for some households, the long-term benefits for public health and the environment are undeniable. The transition also presents opportunities for innovation in the heating sector, with a focus on cleaner and more efficient technologies. As people adapt to the new regulations, the future of home heating in England is likely to be shaped by cleaner burning fuels and energy-efficient solutions.