Health risks of solid fuel burning

Burning solid fuels

Air pollution (a mixture of gases and particles) is the biggest environmental risk to public health. It has a strong influence on 170 early deaths that occur each year in Brighton & Hove. To varying degrees fumes and pollution affect everybody's wellbeing.

Using a wood burner or open fire at home creates tiny particles which can damage the lungs and other organs.

Particle pollution contributes to

1 in 20 deaths of people over the age of 30

UK Health Security Agency Report 2023

Read the UK Health Security Agency Report.

There were

40 days

in 2024 to 2025 when particle pollution in the city exceeded recommended healthy levels according to City sensor data November 2024 to April 2025

In 2024 to 2025, particle pollution in Brighton & Hove was

91% higher

compared with the summer

Particle pollution in different roads across Brighton & Hove

Monitoring Particulate Matter PM2.5, in outdoor public spaces all units: µg/m3 (concentration expressed as micrograms per cubic meter)

Averages based on daily results and data capture percentages.

Preston Park

Eastern Road

Bear Road

Lewes Road

Particle pollution near primary schools

Harmful particle pollution near 4 city primary schools was

78% higher

in 2024 to 2025 compared with the summer

Monitoring Particulate Matter PM2.5 , in outdoor public spaces all units: µg/m3 (concentration expressed as micrograms per cubic meter)