Individual fireplaces in the district: Heating correctly, protecting the environment!

Individual fireplaces in the district: Heating correctly, protecting the environment!

In the Aichach-Friedberg district, over 30,000 households use wood as the main source of heat. This form of heating is widespread in the region and is increasingly accompanied by information on safe and environmentally friendly use. Loud mering.de The local climate agency works together with chimney sweeps to educate citizens about the correct storage, lighting and operation of individual fireplaces.

The forest area in the district covers around 19,000 hectares, with around 75% being privately owned. Proper heating can not only reduce particulate matter pollution, but also reduce fuel consumption. A recent lecture event on “Heating with Renewable Energy” was held on October 30, 2025, designed to raise awareness of sustainable practices.

Training for citizens

In order to offer citizens a practical opportunity for further training, the district has launched a free online course called “Stove Driving License”. The offer is designed to convey the basics of using wood as fuel. Topics such as selection, storage, heating, operation, maintenance and cleaning are covered. The course lasts just under two hours and can be started or interrupted at any time. Successful participation leads to the award of the “stove driver’s license”. Information about registration options can be found on the Kiln Academy website ( ofenakademie.de ).

The initiative aims to reduce particulate matter pollution and thus contribute to improving air quality. However, the Federal Environment Agency warns that wood heating can be harmful to health and does not help reduce climate pollution. In a report Umweltbundesamt.de It is pointed out that burning wood releases CO2, which endangers the sink function of forests.

Responsible heating

It is recommended to first use wood in long-lasting products before burning it. The health risks from fine dust emissions should not be underestimated, especially since wood burning contributed around 18% of German PM2.5 emissions in 2020. To address these levels, PM2.5 emissions from wood burning should fall by 30% by 2030, with a 50% reduction needed to meet WHO recommendations.

The climate-friendly use of wood requires a balanced carbon balance. It must be ensured that more wood grows back than is used in order to achieve climate goals. In addition, the installation of wood heaters should be linked to technical requirements and equipped with exhaust gas treatment systems to minimize emissions.

The climate specialist office in the Aichach-Friedberg district not only offers information on correct heating, but also promotes alternatives such as heating networks or heat pumps in order to reduce the environmental impact of heating. These efforts should ultimately lead to a more sustainable heat supply in the region.