Since 1st May 2022, manufactured solid fuels and wood sold for domestic use across England must meet new legal requirements to reduce the amount of pollution produced when it is burned. Domestic burning is a major source of air pollution in the UK, accounting for 25% of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions. Most emissions from this source come from burning wood in closed stoves and open fires.

This legislation first came into force on 1st May 2021, but small-scale wood producers have had until 1 May 2022 to comply with the new certification rules. Therefore, from this date, manufactured solid fuels and all wood sold in volumes under 2 cubic metres must be certified as ‘Ready to Burn’.

Ready to Burn shows that wood fuels are ready for immediate use. These logs burn more efficiently than unseasoned, green wood and reduce environmental impact. Ready to Burn firewood has a moisture content of 20% or less; using it in place of wet wood fuel is proven to reduce the levels of emissions in the air we breathe.

Wood sold in volume above 2 cubic metres must be accompanied by advice to the buyer about how the wood is stored and dried prior to use.

Officers from Liverpool City Council will be visiting retailers across the city to advise them of the changes in the legislation and to ensure that illegal fuels are not being sold.
Liverpool residents can play their part in reducing the pollution levels in the city by only buying their manufactured solid fuels and wood where the “Ready to Burn” logo is displayed, or by following the advice on drying wood when purchasing larger quantities (above 2 cubic metres). To find out more visit the Ready to Burn website