More and more municipalities in the Netherlands are taking measures against the use of fireplaces and wood stoves. This is due to the harmful emissions of particulate matter and soot particles, which affect air quality and cause health problems. Municipalities such as Amersfoort and Utrechtse Heuvelrug are therefore introducing or preparing burning bans, especially at times when air quality is poor. But what does this mean for you as a fireplace owner? And are there alternatives that are permitted? In this article we explain it and discuss how you can still enjoy a fireplace without worrying about emissions.
Why are fireplaces banned?
Wood burning is a major source of air pollution. In the Netherlands, 25% of particulate matter emissions come from wood stoves and fireplaces. Especially in the winter months, when more people use their fireplaces, this can cause serious air pollution. This leads to health problems such as asthma, COPD and other lung problems. Some studies indicate that we lose an average of 9 months of our life expectancy due to poor air quality.
That is why more and more municipalities are taking measures. In Amersfoort, for example, a partial burning ban is in effect, whereby you are only allowed to burn with 'code yellow' of the Stookwijzer. With 'code orange' or 'code red' burning is prohibited and you risk a fine of 400 euros. In Utrechtse Heuvelrug and other municipalities, wood burning is also being tackled more strictly due to the increasing number of complaints about nuisance.
One of the most drastic steps is being taken by the city of Utrecht, where the use of wood stoves and fireplaces will be completely banned from 2030. In addition, from 2025 onwards, no new flues may be installed in new-build homes. These measures make it clear that wood burning is becoming less and less desirable in urban areas.
What are the alternatives to wood burning?
The question that many people are now asking themselves is: what can you still use as a fireplace or stove? The government and environmental organizations are advocating cleaner alternatives that are less harmful to air quality and healthier for local residents. Think ofTenderflame fireplaces or electric fireplaces, for example. These fireplaces cause virtually no emission of harmful particles and are therefore permitted in many cases, even in municipalities with strict regulations.
In areas where burning bans apply, these alternatives can offer a solution, especially because they are clean and safe to use.
What does the law say about clean burning?
Although there is no national ban on wood burning yet, pressure from municipalities to introduce stricter rules is increasing. More than 40% of Dutch municipalities are in favor of a local ban on wood burning, especially when air quality is poor. Municipalities such as Stadskanaal and Eijsden-Margraten are also advocating national regulations, so that they can enforce better. Utrecht goes even further and has decided that wood stoves and fireplaces may no longer be used from 2030.
Tenderflame: a future-proof solution
If you want to continue enjoying the atmosphere of a fireplace without worrying about burning bans or harmful emissions, a Tenderflame fireplace is an excellent choice. Our fireplaces work on Tenderfuel , a patented fluid that produces almost no particulate matter or other harmful substances. As a result, they meet the strictest environmental requirements and can be used safely, even in municipalities where wood burning is prohibited.
The advantages of Tenderflame at a glance:
- Minimal emissions : The fireplaces emit virtually no particulate matter or harmful gases, making them an environmentally friendly alternative.
- Real fire, without smoke : You enjoy the atmosphere of an open fire without the adverse effects of smoke and soot.
- No Chimney Required : Since no harmful substances are released, no chimney or flue is required, making installation simple.
- Safe use : The non-flammable Tenderfuel can only burn at high temperatures and in combination with a steel wick, which ensures a safe and controlled flame.
Conclusion
The increase in burning bans in Dutch municipalities shows that wood burning is increasingly under pressure. Municipalities such as Utrecht are taking far-reaching measures to improve air quality, even banning wood stoves and fireplaces from 2030. Fortunately, there are alternatives, such as Tenderflame fireplaces, that are allowed to be used. They not only provide warmth and atmosphere, but also contribute to better air quality and health. Want to know more about our clean fireplaces? Contact us or view our collection and discover how you can switch to a cleaner way of burning today.
