Here’s why the approach is flawed.

Clean burning wood stoves are part of the solution.

Certified, advanced technology (or high efficiency) wood stoves are not only up to 30 times cleaner burning, but also up to 30 times more efficient than non-certified units. That means less wood being burned to heat the same amount of space. The proper use of a certified wood stove will contribute to air quality improvements compared to the use of older, uncertified stoves and help achieve climate change objectives. These renewable fuel burning heaters are part of the solution.

Alternative solutions are being overlooked.

In 2021, HPBAC appeared as a delegation to the City of Courtenay, the Town of Comox, the Village of Cumberland, and the CVRD Board to present an Air Quality Improvement Proposal. The primary objective of the Proposal is to implement a plan that will achieve measurable improvement to air quality in the Comox Valley by using renewable, locally sourced wood. This plan will allow residents to enjoy freedom of choice in home heating while providing the means for replacing old, polluting stoves with modern cleaner technology.

The Three Pillars of the Proposal are:

• Sustainable, dry and seasoned wood supply for clean burning
• General and targeted wood stove exchange program
• Comprehensive public education program

What We’re Requesting from Council:

• Work with HPBAC and local members to implement this initiative
• Where possible, provide financial and in-kind support recognizing the commitment of industry to lead and invest in the initiative
• Replace existing bylaws with properly designed regulation that promotes improvements in air quality.

It leaves Comox residents without energy security.

Did you know that since December 6th there have been over 319 reported power outages in the Comox Valley? One outage lasted as long as 28 hours. All-electric homes depend on one source of energy. On Vancouver Island, energy diversity is key to our safety in emergencies. Certified wood stoves provide energy security and affordable heat in the Comox Valley. Banning secondary heating sources like wood stoves leaves residents without options during power outages and catastrophes.

It ignores the economic, social, and cultural contributions that wood burning makes to residents of the Comox Valley. Why should these contributions be thrown away when they don’t have to be?

It ignores the expertise of local industry experts.

Industry has the expertise, experience, and is committed to efficient and well-designed regulation. We need their insight to create an effective Airshed Protection Strategy.

How can we all do better?

There is still time to save your wood stove.
Your voice is needed.

Contact the following people and voice your support.

If you’d like to help or be part of the campaign, please contact meghan@hpbacanada.org.