London sky goes grey: Soaring energy prices bring back firewood in chimneys in UK homes

Britain’s chimney sweeping industry is witnessing a renewed surge in demand, driven by high energy prices, concerns over electricity security, and a growing popularity of wood-burning stoves, according to a report by The New York Times.

The profession, once central to daily life when coal and wood fires were the primary sources of heating, had steadily declined following the widespread adoption of central heating and stricter air pollution regulations in the latter half of the 20th century. Industry representatives now say those trends are partially reversing.

The National Association of Chimney Sweeps said its membership has increased to around 750, from about 590 in 2021, reflecting rising demand for professional chimney services. Association president Martin Glynn said households are increasingly seeking alternative or backup heating options amid volatile energy markets and geopolitical tensions that have raised concerns over power supply disruptions.

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“People want the ability to heat and cook if electricity supplies are interrupted,” Glynn said, as quoted by The New York Times.

Family-run businesses that have survived the industry’s long decline are reporting higher call volumes, particularly during winter months. Josh Firkins, whose family has been sweeping chimneys since the 19th century, said demand tends to rise during periods of economic stress and elevated energy costs.

Modern chimney sweeping now relies heavily on technology, including CCTV cameras, drones, and industrial vacuum systems, replacing the dangerous manual methods once used in the 18th and 19th centuries. The practice of sending children up chimneys was outlawed in Britain in 1875.

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The revival has raised environmental and public health concerns. Scientists and campaigners warn that wood-burning fires and stoves produce fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

In response, England banned the sale of most traditional domestic coal in 2023 while continuing to allow approved smokeless fuels. The British government recommends annual professional chimney sweeping and the use of cleaner fuels to limit air pollution.

Despite regulatory constraints, industry officials say demand remains strong, suggesting the trade may continue to benefit from persistent energy uncertainty and cost-of-living pressures, even as environmental concerns remain under scrutiny.