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Date posted: 07 February 2025

Clean Air Night raises ‘burning’ question

Thank you to all our residents who joined us in supporting the national Clean Air Night Campaign in January.

The campaign highlighted the pollution and public health risks associated with solid fuel burning and we thank those who took the time to engage with us; there was a ‘heated’ debate on both sides. 

Some felt this was a matter of personal choice, others were surprised to learn of the health implications, and some would like wood burning stoves and bonfires banned altogether.

Councillor Steve Williams, Waverley Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, said:

“It is an emotive subject but the fact remains that despite the undeniable charm of a wood burning stove or log fire, there is a significant hidden cost to the environment and public health and the need to reassess our attitudes to wood burning. By raising awareness and making informed personal choices, we can all work towards reducing the environmental and health impacts of wood burning stoves.”

If you want to find out more about Clean Air Night and other advice around wood burning, visit Clean Air Night (cleanairhub.org.uk).

Further information on how you can help improve air quality can be found on our website at  Waverley Borough Council - How you can help improve air quality.

You can also get involved in our conversation about how we can deal with climate change in the borough by visiting our Climate Change Hub at  Have Your Say Today - Waverley Borough Council - Commonplace.

For further information on our climate change strategy and action plan, visit Waverley Borough Council - Climate change strategy and action plan.