Defra

HETAS’s wishes from the new Labour government

Following the 2024 election results with Keir Starmer emerging as the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, we will be examining the Labour Party’s manifesto and assessing how it addresses net zero, energy security, and environmental concerns relating to our industry.

Who are the UK’s new Cabinet Ministers?

With the recent general election and the new Labour government, new Cabinet Ministers have now been appointed. This article examines the key ministers that relate to our industry, their voting patterns, and past work.

Recent UK air quality findings

To support you and remain transparent, we have created this article to summarise recent air quality findings, provide context where necessary, and look towards the future.

Defra’s emissions of air pollutants publication 2024

Defra has published its latest data on emissions of air pollutants in the UK, with the publication containing statistics on annual emissions for the period 1970 to 2022. The annual publication provides estimates of UK emissions of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen oxides, ammonia, non-methane volatile organic compounds, and sulphur dioxide. These statistics are used to monitor progress against the UK’s emission reduction commitments (ERC) for air pollutants. 

The Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Bill

New legislation was passed in the Senedd on Tuesday 28th November 2023, giving the Welsh Government greater powers to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution across Wales.

Burn Better

Defra has launched its Burn Better, Breathe Better campaign for the 2023/24 heating season.

Defra’s air quality strategy

Defra has published its air quality strategy, the framework for local authorities and partners, setting out their powers, responsibilities, and further actions.

Wales Clean Air Plans

The HETAS team provide an overview of Wales Clean Air Plans and the latest updates from the Welsh government.

Ban on wood stoves? | Government confirms no ban

No doubt you will have seen some headlines about a possible ban on wood stoves. Here, we identify the truth behind the headlines and what measures the government is undertaking in relation to domestic burning.

HETAS responds to Defra’s emissions of air pollutants statistics

The new ‘Emissions for air pollutants in the UK’ publication released today from Defra has highlighted an increase in burning wood for fuel by 124 per cent between 2011 and 2021, and a decrease in use of coal for domestic heating. The report also highlights emissions of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) originate from a wide range of sources covering domestic activity, industrial activity, power generation, transport and agriculture.