Burning wood for fuel
As fuel prices continue to rise interest in alternatives to oil, gas and coal grow. Burning wood can be a sustainable option for some people, particularly in rural areas, but before investing in a wood burning stove, check any restrictions with your local council. If burned efficiently, wood produces almost no smoke. An additional benefit is, as trees grow they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) putting the carbon into new growth and the oxygen back into the atmosphere. Burning wood causes the carbon to oxidise and release as CO2. Using wood from sustainably managed trees reduces net CO2 production (although small amounts are released by processing and transportation) compared to using fossil fuels.
For more guidance download the guide on burning wood from the Forestry Commission. It includes drying and storing wood, which wood burns the best and gives the most heat.