Smokless Coal for use in Northern Ireland

The government has confirmed plans to phase out the sale of house coal and wet wood as part of its efforts to reduce pollutants and improve air quality. Instead, cleaner fuels such as smokeless coal and kiln-dried wood are recommended.

Legislation in the UK and Ireland

England

In England, the government introduced the Air Quality (Domestic Solid Fuels Standards) (England) Regulations 2020, which came into effect on May 1, 2021. This legislation restricts the sale of wet wood and bituminous coal for domestic burning. Retailers are prohibited from selling these fuels and are encouraged to offer cleaner alternatives such as kiln-dried wood and manufactured smokeless fuels. The regulations also mandate that all sold wood fuel in volumes under 2 cubic meters must be certified as having a moisture content of 20% or less. More info

Scotland

Scotland has implemented The Air Quality (Scotland) Regulations, which set out emission standards for domestic solid fuels. While the outright ban on house coal and wet wood does not yet mirror England's restrictions, Scotland continues to encourage the use of cleaner fuels and has designated smoke control areas where the burning of high-polluting fuels is restricted.

Wales

Wales has introduced its own set of regulations under the Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Bill, aligning with England’s approach by restricting the sale of high-emission fuels. The Welsh Government promotes the use of approved smokeless fuels and dry wood to reduce air pollution.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland follows separate regulations under The Air Pollution (Northern Ireland) Order 1987. Many urban areas are covered by Smoke Control Areas, where the use of house coal and other high-emission fuels is restricted. Proposed future measures aim to align more closely with the rest of the UK in phasing out polluting fuels.

Ireland

The Irish government has also taken steps to address air pollution from solid fuels. The Air Pollution Act 1987 (Solid Fuel) Regulations 2022, effective from October 31, 2022, restricts the sale of smoky fuels, including bituminous coal, turf, and wet wood. These regulations aim to enhance air quality by limiting the commercial sale of fuels that contribute significantly to particulate matter emissions. More info

Under these regulations, only solid fuels that meet specified environmental standards are permitted for sale. This includes manufactured smokeless fuels and kiln-dried wood with low moisture content. The focus is on promoting the use of cleaner alternatives to reduce health risks associated with air pollution.

Why Choose Smokeless Coal?

As the name suggests, smokeless coal is a more environmentally friendly alternative to house coal. It produces fewer emissions, generates less smoke while burning, and can release up to 20% less carbon dioxide. Many smokeless coals are made from a combination of anthracite and other renewable materials, making them a more sustainable choice.

Types of Smokeless Fuels

Smokeless fuels can be either naturally occurring or manufactured:

Manufactured Smokeless Fuels

Many smokeless fuels are anthracite-based but processed into a more versatile form. The natural anthracite is ground down into a powder and then re-formed into briquettes using smokeless binding agents such as starch or molasses. These briquettes can be used in various appliances, including multi-fuel stoves, room heaters, and open fires.

Anthracite - The Natural Smokeless Fuel

Anthracite is a naturally occurring smokeless fuel with a very high carbon content—sometimes up to 98%. This high carbon content results in fewer volatile materials, meaning it produces little to no thick smoke when burned. Anthracite is a hard, shiny fuel that burns efficiently with a glowing flame, making it an excellent choice for clean combustion.

Benefits Beyond the Environment

Switching to smokeless fuels doesn’t just benefit the environment—it also offers practical advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Although the initial cost of smokeless fuel is higher than house coal, its longer burning time and higher heat output make it more economical in the long run.
• Increased Efficiency: Due to their high carbon content, smokeless fuels provide a more consistent and efficient fire, ensuring better warmth and fuel economy.
• Less Maintenance: Smokeless fuels produce less ash, reducing the frequency of grate emptying and making appliance maintenance easier.

Where to Buy Smokeless Coal

For those looking to make the switch to cleaner, more efficient fuel, Surefire Wood offers a variety of high-quality smokeless coal options. Their selection includes eco-friendly, long-burning fuels suitable for various heating appliances.

Conclusion

As traditional house coal is phased out, transitioning to smokeless fuels such as anthracite and manufactured briquettes is a smart and sustainable choice. These fuels offer not only a cleaner burn but also better efficiency, cost savings, and convenience. By making the switch, consumers across the UK and Ireland can contribute to improved air quality and public health while enjoying a more effective heating solution. Visit Surefire Wood to find the best smokeless coal for your needs.