London Wood Burning Project: Tackling Pollution from Domestic Wood Burning

The London Wood Burning Project (LWBP) was launched in late 2022 to raise awareness of the health and environmental impacts of domestic wood and solid fuel burning. It is led by the London Boroughs of Camden and Islington, in partnership with the Mayor of London, and funded through the Mayor’s Air Quality Fund (previously by Defra’s Air Quality Grant).

Domestic wood burning is a major source of PM₂.₅ pollution, contributing around 15% of London’s emissions. These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing risks of heart disease, stroke, asthma, lung cancer, and dementia. In London, the pollution from wood burning is linked to 284 premature deaths annually and costs the economy over £187 million per year.

What the Project Does

• Public Awareness Campaigns
  Seasonal campaigns using radio, digital, social media, and outdoor ads feature the mascot “Burny”, promoting messages about health harms and clean air.

• Education & Outreach
  Over 30,000 leaflets distributed and support for Clean Air Night initiatives.

• Research & Data
  Surveys of wood-burning habits, air quality monitoring indoors and outdoors, and health impact evaluations.

• Enforcement Support
  Bespoke training for local authorities on smoke control enforcement; 124 officers trained in 2024 and 115 in 2025.

• Resources for Residents
  Guidance on smoke control rules and cleaner alternatives.

The project now includes 26 London boroughs, working together to reduce pollution and protect public health.

For more details and resources, visit woodburning.london.