Abstract

There is a lack of knowledge about the impact of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces in homes on the health of residents. It is a known fact that wood smoke contains hazardous substances. Not much relevant scientific research has been carried out into the impact of wood burning on the indoor environment, and the results of this are not unambiguous. In addition, the results lack information on how frequently residents are exposed to wood smoke and how much wood smoke is discharged by the stove or fireplace into the indoor air. Due to this lack of knowledge, no conclusions can be drawn on the extent to which wood smoke in the indoor environment has a harmful effect on the health of persons using wood burning stoves or fireplaces.

The above is made clear by a literature review carried out by RIVM on the potential consequences of wood burning in the indoor environment. Much of the studies reviewed are subject to limitations, such as a study group that is too small or subjective information on wood burning. There is no research from the Netherlands. Additional research is needed.

Several studies have looked at whether higher concentrations of hazardous substances are found in homes where wood is burned as a fuel compared to homes where that is not the case. Some studies have found higher concentrations of particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOC), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in the indoor residential environment of persons burning wood than persons not doing so.. However, from these studies it is not clear what the higher concentrations mean for the health of the residents.

It is not clear whether the indoor air quality improves when old stoves are replaced by newer types. Little data is available on the effect of providing appropriate wood-burning instructions. This review shows that indoor air purifiers may improve the air quality inside the home.

The literature review was commissioned by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (IenW).