Air pollution has cost an estimated 41 deaths in Canberra in 2023 according to air quality information platform, IQAir. There are health-related factors associated with this figure, however in winter, Canberra can resemble the land of the long white cloud.
We have our beautiful location partially to blame, sitting in a valley between two mountain ranges, which traps woodfire smoke. So with the mercury dropping and fireplaces roaring, Minister for the Environment Rebecca Vassarotti is calling on Canberrans to improve their heating efficiency and protect the environment.
“All Canberrans should be able to breathe freely” Minister Vassarotti said. “Throughout most of the year, we have excellent air quality here in the ACT. This does not excuse us from needing to address the challenges that higher levels of air pollution during winter pose for some members of our community.”
Canberra’s live air quality index is currently 11, which is good. But it’s only the 1st of June. Minister Vassarotti said environmental protection and social justice are interconnected, “the choices we make as a community to protect one another are integral to supporting the most vulnerable in our city”.
“Canberrans can make a difference by opting for dry and well-seasoned wood obtained from a trusted firewood supplier,” she said. “This simple choice will lead not only to a substantial reduction in smoke emissions but also enhanced efficiency and longer-lasting warmth.
“Another important measure is for Canberrans to have their wood heaters serviced and cleaned by a professional before the winter season. This will not only help to minimize smoke emissions but also to mitigate fire safety risks.”
Other tips include: Store wood in a well-ventilated covered space so it stays dry; always light your fire with air flow controls fully open and use plenty of kindling; position wood with enough space to allow air flow and complete combustion; when reloading, use smaller logs and never overfill your heater; and keep the air flow control open enough to maintain a flame.
For more information visit https://www.environment.act.gov.au/environment/wood-fire-heating
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