PGAQ #87 by Vic Steblin, Feb 19, 2009

2570 Laurier Crescent, Prince George, BC, 250-564-1123

The Executive Director of Health Protection for British Columbia responds to wood smoke as follows.

“The Province does not take the position that we want to discourage home heating with wood fuel. Our position is that we want to decrease particulate matter emissions and encourage cleaner burning technology and better burning practices. Wood is recognized as an appropriate fuel source for home heating when appropriate technology and clean burning practices are employed. No fuel is perfect, which is why the province does not endorse one fuel type over another – instead we work to provide information to the public that will allow them to make appropriate choices for their situation.”

This government policy requires some response. First, I do not think it is possible to “decrease particulate matter” and at the same time “encourage burning wood”. If electricity or natural gas is available as the lowest particulate technology, why would anyone encourage less than the “best practice”? Heating with wood has high health costs.

Secondly, “No fuel is perfect” is an inappropriate argument in support of wood. Heat sources in best order are activity, warmer clothes, electricity, natural gas, heating oil, coal, pellets, wood and finally dried dung. Wood heat may seem cheap and handy for those near forests, but the hidden costs to health are just deferred and force the taxpayer to pay in the long run.

Finally, the government is ultimately responsible for setting policies about maintaining the peace between citizens. How can decency be maintained when a government supports a few burners that may anger many neighbours? Certain people will always choose to burn wood without regard to others. This government policy is clearly wrong and does not encourage better health.