The illegal burning of waste or the use of unsuitable materials for heating in residential areas where solid fuel stoves are used poses a serious danger to people's health and the environment. As a result, the presence of unpleasant odors and dark smoke in the air is often observed.
The process of waste incineration is difficult to establish, but it has a clearly negative impact on health and air quality. Heating with solid fuel – wood and coal – is accompanied by the release of combustion products such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide (during incomplete combustion), nitrogen and sulfur dioxide, as well as fine particulate matter.
Depending on their concentration and atmospheric conditions, these pollutants can have a serious irritating effect on the respiratory tract, eyes and mucous membranes and cause cough, sneezing and difficulty breathing, especially in children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases.
Some of the particulate matter released during combustion is coarser and darker, visible to the naked eye in the form of soot or thick smoke. It is precisely because of this that the release of dark smoke and the spread of a strong unpleasant smell from the chimneys of buildings heated with solid fuel is periodically observed.
In this regard, we remind citizens that the burning of waste is prohibited. It is unacceptable to use plastics, tires, textiles, chipboard, plywood, old furniture, packaging and other household or construction waste for heating. These materials release highly toxic substances when burned, which seriously pollute the air and endanger the health of everyone.
The wood used for heating should be clean, dry and untreated. Lacquered, painted or impregnated wood should not be used, as dangerous chemical compounds are released during their combustion.
Compliance with these requirements is the responsibility of each of us. Clean air is a common good, and caring for it starts with personal choice and our daily actions. With conscious and responsible behavior, we can reduce pollution and contribute to a healthier living environment for all.