The rapid growth in the use of domestic patio heaters is damaging the environment, according to the Energy Saving Trust. The Trust, set up by the Government to encourage greater energy efficiency, asks: “Should they be banned?” Ownership of these items is expected to almost double over the next few years from the current 1.2 million to 2.3 million according to the EST’s Green Barometer report.

It is estimated that, although they are only used on average once or twice a week in July and August, they generate the same emissions as a gas cooker hob does in six months. And 2.3 million of them would generate carbon emissions of over 100,000 tonnes of CO2 a year.

Philip Sellwood, chief executive of the Energy Saving Trust, said: “We are calling
for responsible retailers to re-consider the sale of patio heaters in light of the substantial amount of carbon emissions they produce.

“Why don’t people just wear a jumper? People are also influencing the larger
more damaging commercial sector with a third of pub goers choosing pubs where there is a patio heater. Landlords are helping to make patio heaters desirable - which they are not.”

http://www.est.org.uk