Overview

• The UK government has officially confirmed that wood-burning stoves will be permitted as a secondary heating source in new homes under the Future Homes Standard.
• This decision follows a technical consultation launched in December 2023 and closed in March 2024, with the full standard set to be published later in 2025.
• Health experts, including Prof. Chris Whitty, warn that even modern stoves emit significantly higher levels of toxic air pollution compared to gas heating, raising public health concerns.
• The Climate Change Committee has recommended phasing out wood-burning stoves, citing their contribution to carbon emissions and particulate pollution.
• The Stove Industry Association welcomed the decision, emphasizing modern stoves' cleaner emissions and their potential to reduce reliance on other heating fuels.