Kilkenny County Council is urging members of the public to prioritise purchasing coal from registered merchants as part of the Solid Fuel Legislation 2022. This legislation aims to improve air quality, enhance public health, and protect the environment by regulating the sale of solid fuels.
As residents prepare for the colder months, it is essential to buy coal from registered merchants who adhere to stringent quality and environmental standards. Only these registered suppliers can guarantee compliance with local and national regulations designed to ensure cleaner burning solid fuels. By purchasing from authorised vendors, consumers can significantly reduce harmful emissions, contribute to improved air quality, and support a sustainable environment for future generations.
Kilkenny County Council has established strong working relationships with Solid Fuel Merchants Ireland, a key partner in promoting responsible fuel sales. Together, we are committed to educating the public on the importance of choosing registered fuel suppliers who are dedicated to environmental compliance. This collaboration has resulted in increased awareness and adherence to the solid fuel legislation, benefiting both consumers and the community at large.
The Council encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any questionable activities related to the sale of coal and other solid fuels. Instances of unregistered suppliers posing a risk to health and the environment are taken seriously. Residents are urged to contact the Environmental Department of Kilkenny County Council at 056 7794470 or environment@kilkennycoco.ie to report any concerns or suspicious activities.
“According to an EPA report, as high as 60% of households use solid fuel in the South East. 16% listed solid fuel as their primary source of heating.” said Mags Whelan, Environmental Education and Awareness Officer, Kilkenny County Council. “Supporting registered fuel merchants not only ensures compliance with the Solid Fuel Legislation but also helps foster a cleaner, healthier community. Together, we can combat air pollution and create a better living environment for all residents.”
Suggested quote from Colin Ahern of Solid Fuel Merchants Ireland “Some consumers are being lured by unscrupulous retailers who are engaged in selling solid fuels in bulk, minus carbon tax and in flagrant disregard of the law, from Northern Ireland. This presents acute concerns for the viability of the industry, where it has to compete with illegal alternatives that do not ascribe to the requisite safety and environmental standards”
Low moisture content firewood ignites more easily and burns more efficiently than wood with higher moisture levels so it is important that it is stored appropriately. This efficiency stems from the fact that dry firewood requires less energy to evaporate moisture before combustion can occur. With low moisture content firewood, a greater proportion of the heat produced is available for heating your home, rather than being lost to water vapour. This means that your home will become warmer quicker; with more consistency and with fewer wasted resources.
High moisture content in firewood leads to smoky and inefficient combustion, resulting in greater emissions of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter. When wood contains excess moisture, it releases excess smoke and harmful gases as it burns. By choosing low moisture content firewood, you not only create a cleaner and more pleasant indoor environment but you also contribute to reducing air pollution and protecting the environment for future generations.
For further information about the Solid Fuel Legislation 2022 and guidance on purchasing coal from registered merchants, please visit https://sfmi.ie/policy/ or contact the Kilkenny County Council Environmental Department directly at environment@kilkennycoco.ie or 056 7794470.
