Wood-burning stoves to be allowed in new-build homes in England despite concerns

Campaigners condemn decision as studies reveal harm to health and climate caused by heating appliances

Wood-burning stoves will be allowed to heat new-build homes in England despite growing evidence showing their significant contribution to air pollution and carbon emissions.

The government is writing its Future Homes Standards, a set of rules for developers aimed at decarbonising England’s housing stock. Heating the UK’s 28m homes accounts for about 18% of greenhouse gas emissions.