Why is wood smoke an issue?

Smoke from wood heaters and open fireplaces is a significant source of air pollution in Victoria during autumn and winter months. When wood is burned, very small particles and gases are released into the atmosphere. These particles and gases are air pollutants.

This pollution can affect air quality as well as impact on our health and quality of life. Wood smoke pollution has a demonstrated impact on people's health, especially people who have existing lung or heart conditions such as asthma or angina.

Wood smoke can also affect people's ability to enjoy their home and the outdoors. Complaints about wood smoke are one of the most common types of complaints received by local government and EPA during the winter months.

Use of wood heaters and fireplaces continues to be a valued source of heating for many people. For some Victorian households, it is the only feasible form of heating.

If you use a wood heater, the most significant thing you can do to reduce pollution is to operate it correctly. A correctly operated wood heater will produce significantly less pollution than one poorly operated. Correct operation will provide more heat in the home and better value for money from the fuel wood used.

Read Air Quality Factsheet – Woodheaters and Woodsmoke published by the Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage.

Did you know?

Many of the air pollution problems associated with wood heating can be prevented or minimised by following a number of simple steps. View tips on how to reduce smoke from your wood heater.

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