The Acquisition of Firewood In Spring-Summer
The Acquisition of Firewood in Spring-Summer and Its Positive Effect on the Climate
Buying firewood in spring and summer can have a positive natural influence compared to purchasing firewood in the colder months of the year. (καυσοξυλα)
This is because, by purchasing firewood early, you are supporting nearby firewood providers and contributing to their financial sustainability. Furthermore, by purchasing firewood from local providers, you decrease the use of fossil fuels for transporting firewood to your home, which, in turn, reduces your carbon footprint.
When you buy firewood in the winter, trucks or even planes may be used to transport the firewood, resulting in a significant carbon footprint. Additionally, firewood is often imported from other countries, which can also impact the environment due to transportation costs and the potential for unsustainable logging in the country of origin.
On the other hand, by purchasing early, your firewood is more likely to come from local providers and sustainably managed woodlands in your region. Choosing a local provider reduces the distance that firewood needs to travel to reach your home, further decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
Moreover, using a wood stove or fireplace to warm your home instead of relying on fossil fuels can also positively impact the environment. Burning firewood emits carbon dioxide, but logging and burning wood can be considered carbon-neutral if done sustainably, with the felled wood replaced with new trees. Additionally, if you choose firewood from waste or local forests, you're reducing the amount of wood that ends up in landfills and helping maintain healthy forests.
Tips for Storing Firewood
Whenever you have bought your firewood, you must store it correctly to maintain its quality and avoid moisture and pest problems. Here we offer you a few useful tips:
Store in a Dry Spot
Firewood should be stored in a dry spot protected from rain and snow. If you don't have a covered space, consider using a canvas or plastic cover to shield the firewood from moisture.
Leave Space for Airflow
It is vital that the firewood has adequate room for airflow. Stack firewood on racks or stands and leave space between stacks to allow air to circulate. This will also help prevent moisture buildup and discourage pest infestation.
Use Dry Wood
Ensure the firewood you are storing is dry. Wet firewood is harder to burn, produces more smoke, which can cause air quality problems inside your home. Additionally, damp wood is more prone to mold and pest infestation. More information about the problems caused by wet firewood can be found here.
These are only a few tips for properly storing firewood at home. If you want to delve more deeply into how to store firewood effectively and safely, be sure to read our post "How to Properly Store Firewood at Home." There, we provide you with additional specific tips and tricks to help you keep your firewood in the best condition and ensure readiness in the coldest months of the year. (ξύλα για τζάκι)