Winter in Quebec often conjures up images of snowy landscapes, roaring log fires and cosy warmth. But behind this idyllic scene lies a much less charming reality: winter smog episodes caused by residential wood burning. This largely underestimated problem has serious consequences for public health and the environment.
A major source of pollution
During the winter, residential wood combustion becomes the main source of air pollution in several regions of Quebec, surpassing even transportation and industry. Wood fireplaces and stoves emit fine particles (PM2.5), as well as other toxic pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These substances concentrate in the air when temperatures drop and thermal inversions trap pollutants close to the ground.
In the vast majority of cases, these fireplaces are used for decorative purposes, not out of necessity. This makes it even more absurd that people are getting sick or dying because of the pollution they generate. According to Health Canada studies, approximately 1,400 premature deaths in southern Quebec each year can be linked to air pollution caused by residential wood burning. This is without taking into account the respiratory and cardiovascular diseases aggravated by smog episodes.
Tangible health consequences
Fine particles emitted by residential wood combustion penetrate deep into the lungs and can be carried into the bloodstream. They increase the risk of asthma attacks, heart attacks and strokes. Children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases are particularly vulnerable.
A false solution: certified devices
Many wood-burning fireplaces claim EPA certification or other standards that supposedly ensure “clean” burning. However, recent reports have revealed that these certifications are based on laboratory tests that do not reflect real-world conditions. In reality, even the most modern appliances continue to pollute at significant levels.
Take action to breathe better
To reduce winter smog episodes, concrete actions are needed:
Encourage the transition to non-polluting heating methods such as heat pumps.
Impose stricter regulations to reduce residential wood burning's huge contribution to smog
Raise awareness among the population of the consequences of residential wood combustion on health and the environment.
Winter traditions are part of who we are, but they need to evolve to keep pace with today’s challenges. Every winter, thousands of families breathe harmful air without even realizing it. While we love the warmth of fire, we need to consider the cost to our health and the environment. By replacing the romantic image of wood-burning fireplaces with modern, planet-friendly solutions, we can preserve what really matters: clean air, sustainable health, and an even brighter winter for all.
We have made enormous progress on air quality in the last 40 years and all sectors have improved except residential wood combustion. We must act, we can no longer remain in political inaction for fear of displeasing some.