Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Think Globally: Smoke

According to EnviroZine, Environment Canada’s On-Line Newsmagazine, smoke, whether it comes from a woodstove, a fireplace, or a campfire, is not as environmentally safe as we might think. A woodstove that is not certified by the United States EPA is estimated to emit as many fine particulates into the air in nine hours as does a certified woodstove in 60 hours or mid-sized car traveling 18,000 kilometers (you have to figure out the miles).

Act Locally: Use Fireplaces Wisely

Traditional fireplaces burn with less than 10% efficiency and, when not in use, allow cold air to enter and heated air to escape. Some smoke stays in the hour, compromising indoor air quality. Install and use glass doors and a damper. Use seasoned wood, build hot efficient fires, and maintain the chimney. Consider a high efficiency fireplace insert or artificial logs, which reduce air pollution by 80%.