More dangerous even than cigarettes – why the European Commission wants to ban wood heating systems

The European Commission (EC) had planned to ban all wood heating systems in 2027. Why? Because as the number one air polluters in Europe, wood-fired heating systems pose the greatest threat to human health. In addition to emitting a cocktail of toxic substances, wood burners also produce extremely dangerous Particulate Matter PM2.5. Even so-called “eco-design” stoves emit 650 times more Particulate Matter than a modern truck. In cities such as Rotterdam, Utrecht and Amsterdam, campaigns are already underway to draw attention to the dangers of wood heating systems. The World Health Organization has also issued a warning.

Following pressure from Germany and the Czech Republic however, the EC has backed down and has postponed the ban… for the time being.

Meanwhile in Switzerland, energy wood is being aggressively promoted. The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) along with the Swiss Lung League and the Swiss Cancer League are covering up the health risks.