The European Union are looking at ways to rid itself of unenvironmentally friendly, non-renewable fossil fuels. There is a drive to remove reliance on all fossil fuels regardless of their country of origin, although Russia has played somewhat of a key role in this decision since its invasion of Ukraine. Germany and Italy accounted for almost half of all EU gas imports from Russia up until only relatively recently. Russia cut off its gas supply to Europe in August 2022.
Now the EU is looking at burning wood as a renewable energy source to help replace reliance on fossil fuels and make strides towards Net Zero.
For many, the thought of burning wood is not always the first thing which springs to mind when looking at renewable energy sources. However, according to the European Commission, biomass, which includes firewood, plants, and other organic materials, makes up 60% of the EU’s renewable energy mix.
Wood is Sustainable:
Despite misleading information in some media outlets, burning wood, if done so correctly, is highly environmentally friendly and sustainable as long as:
1. You’re sourcing wood from sustainable woodlands
2. You’re burning seasoned wood
3. You’re burning this seasoned wood on an Ecodesign stove
Because new trees can be planted after others have been chopped down, firewood gets the renewable seal of approval under EU law. This means countries can subsidise burning wood as long as specific sourcing rules are adhered to.
Woodlands MUST be sustainable. Here are a few key facts about woodlands and forests:
1. Forests cover around 30% of the world’s land area
2. Forests contain most of the world’s biodiversity and almost as much carbon as in the atmosphere
3. Directly and indirectly, forests and woodlands provide livelihoods for over one billion people
4. Forests influence the availability of water, regulates surface and groundwater flows, and also helps maintain high water quality
5. Forests and trees reduce water-related risks such as landslides, floods and droughts
You too can have a sustainable woodland!
You don’t need acres of land, either. As little as 10 x 15m space (half the size of an allotment) would provide around one tonne of firewood every five years. This means a very healthy supply of firewood each year, around 200kg, which is more than enough for most households over the winter months. This is sustainable, environmentally friendly and free way to keep warm!
