The Municipality of Voorschoten Launches an Information Campaign on Wood Burning

The municipality of Voorschoten is launching a campaign to raise awareness among its residents about the health risks associated with wood-burning stoves, pellet stoves, and open fireplaces. In fact, one in three Dutch people is affected by wood burning, experiencing symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath. 

“We understand that, given current energy prices, people want to light their wood-burning stoves a little more often. But please be considerate of one another,”said René Zoetemelk, alderman for the Environment. When a wood-burning stove, pellet stove, or open fireplace is lit inside a home, smoke is produced. That smoke contains harmful substances, including particulate matter. These harmful substances cause air pollution and can harm your health and the health of others around you.

Stookwijzer.nu

Would you still like to light your wood-burning stove, pellet stove, or open fireplace? Then check out Stookwijzer.nu first at .“It’s a handy tool where you can enter your address or ZIP code,”said Councilor Zoetemelk.“You’ll see right away whether it’s a good idea to burn fuel that day.”

Tips

Certain tips can help minimize emissions of harmful substances. These tips are featured in the municipality’s campaign. René Zoetemelk:“For example, check out Stookwijzer.nu at , burn only dry wood, and sweep your chimney.”
The campaign can be found in the newspaper and on social media.