Burn good wood to make a difference to air quality in the Horizons Region

Horizons environmental scientist Harold Barnett says burning green or wet wood, using an unswept chimney, or operating your woodburner incorrectly can emit gases and smoke that carry small particles into the air.
 
“These gases and minuscule particles can affect our health, causing irritation, worsening allergies and asthma, and even contribute to serious health conditions like heart disease”, he says.
 
The good news is that recent trend analysis of Horizons’ monitoring data suggests air quality in the region’s airsheds is improving, says Mr Barnett.
 
“These results might suggest homeowners in these areas have been gradually upgrading their heating appliances or improving their burning practices over the years. These trends are encouraging to see, and this winter we want to see our communities capitalise on their great work.”
 
While many locals are already familiar with lighting fires for home heating, Mr Barnett says it's worth revisiting Horizons’ tips for warmer, brighter, and cleaner fires this season.
 
“Having your chimney swept will help to keep your fire burning safely and efficiently during winter. Use plenty of dry kindling to get things started and keep the air control open for at least 30 minutes when adding fresh logs.
 
“Stack split, dry wood loosely in the firebox to allow air circulation, and don’t overload logs before the fire gets going. And remember - never burn rubbish or treated wood, as these can release harmful toxins.
 
“By practising these tips, you’ll enjoy the bright, swirling flames and red glowing embers of a good fire, while keeping smoke, and thus your impact on air quality, to a minimum.”
 
People with concerns about smoky chimneys in their neighbourhood can reach out to their local city or district council for assistance.
 
Communities can check out air quality monitoring data for Horizons' two airsheds, Taumarunui and Taihape, at lawa.org.nz. People can also learn more about air quality in the Horizons Region at horizons.govt.nz/managing-natural-resources/air.