Blame wood-burning stoves for winter air pollution and health threats

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It may be natural, but there’s nothing safe or environmentally sound about heating your home with wood.

This article was originally published on The Conversation, an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. Disclosure information is available on the original site.Author: Michael D. Mehta, Professor, Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Thompson Rivers University

Chronic exposure to PM2.5 is linked to heart disease, lung cancer in non-smokers, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Type II diabetes and dementia. There are alternatives. For everyday heating, mini-split air source heat pumps are an excellent option. They are often three to four times more efficient than electric baseboard heaters and can work in colder climates. For example, the community of Skidegate in Haida Gwaii placed heat pumps in every house, reducing the use of wood for home heating.

The B.C. Lung Association has also been a strong advocate of wood stove exchange programs. But even the cleanest, highest level of eco-certified wood stoves generate more particulate matter per hour than 18 newer diesel passenger cars — and the wood stove may be right beside you.Concerned citizens have set-up an extensive and a growing network of low-cost air quality monitors made by PurpleAir.

 

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What people in Vancouver need heat in the winter, wonder how all those eco nuts are staying warm maybe huddled together like penguins

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