With the festive season upon us, it’s the perfect time to embrace the warmth, comfort, and community spirit that makes Christmas so special. In a recent Good Grief vlog, Reuben, Laurence and Francis joined forces with Chef Drew to create a truly memorable Christmas dinner.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Moor Farm, and joined by some of the team from Charnwood, A.J Wells, and Vlaze, the scene was set for a celebration that highlights the Island’s abundance of top-quality ingredients and passionate producers.
Read on for some ‘feastive’ inspiration!
A feast centred around local flavour
Drawing on wonderful produce with Isle of Wight provenance from – Briddlesford Farm, Harvey Browns, Wight Knuckle Brewery, and Wight Whisky – they curated a menu that had something for everyone.
From the show-stopping Beef Wellington to colourful seasonal vegetables and a creamy three-cheese cauliflower bake (Reuban loves cheese), this holiday feast proved that great ingredients and a dash of creativity can transform your table into something truly special.
Cooking with confidence
The Charnwood Haven, a beautiful wood-fired range cooker, provided gentle, reliable heat for preparing the co-main event. There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking with a wood-fired stove that brings a cosy glow and warmth to the kitchen – especially when it’s packed full of succulent, locally sourced meat and veg.
For those who love an extra festive flourish, a turkey cooked in a Big Green Egg on a Vlaze module added a hint of culinary theatre. With dairy delights including creamy butter, milk, and award-winning cheeses from Briddlesford Farm(the halloumi in particular is a favourite), each bite told a story of the Island’s rich farming tradition.
Raising a glass (or can) to the season
Of course, no celebration is complete without something to toast with. Wight Knuckle Brewery and Wight Whisky stepped in with their seasonal sips, offering the perfect drinks to complement hearty dishes. A splash of Wight Whisky even found its way onto the Christmas pudding – why settle for tradition when you can give it a gentle Island twist?
A beautiful table, inside and out
Presentation matters as much as flavour, and the crew made excellent use of Vlaze surfaces for prepping and serving. Vlaze’s stunning enamel finishes brought a sleek, practical edge to the cooking space, while Lottie Rose Studio’s pottery and festive tableware provided a heartfelt, handmade touch. A perfect place to gather and share stories raise glasses and tuck into some delicious festive fare.
Join in the Isle of Wight spirit
This Christmas, consider sourcing a few ingredients from your own local farms, dairies, or breweries. Experiment with different cooking methods – maybe try slow-roasting your veg or infusing your gravy with a local tipple. Dress your table with ceramics crafted by artisans in your region, or invest in a durable surface that brings both function and flair to your kitchen.
These small touches transform a meal from a simple dinner into a celebration of community and creativity. Christmas is about bringing people together, and what better way than through the flavours and stories unique to where you live?
A festive invitation
If you’re feeling inspired, tune into the Good Grief vlog (below) for more insights and good cheer. You’ll find new ideas, genuine laughter, and the proud support of local businesses. Who knows – you might just discover a new festive tradition to carry forward for years to come.
Warm wishes from all of us this Christmas. May your table be full, your home be cosy, and your festive season filled with the joy of good company and great food!
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”John 1:5
The word ‘light’ originates from the Greek word to ‘portray, show.’ As we move into December, the reality of shorter days and reduced natural light becomes more apparent. There is a reluctance to leave our homes as we are beckoned to stay indoors and shielded from the elements. As if by magic, we reach the veil of darkness with short bursts of light in between the dark mornings and early evenings. The trees, holding on to the last of their gloriously Autumnal coloured leaves, but the bareness is growing more apparent. Though it is this light that keeps us buoyant through the darker months. As we consider this darkness, it gives us the opportunity to also think about light in its many forms.
The artist Dan Flavin said that light itself was art, and as we head towards the winter, this artist’s statement resonates with me more deeply. The miracle of light becomes particularly transparent with the weather patterns during the Autumn months such as anticyclonic gloom, that creates a wrapped silence to the day covered by dull and cloudy weather. The search for intermittent light through the changing weather patterns and the joy it brings on Autumn days is treated as a wonder by us all. The light almost seems unexpected and it turns in a moment, the shadows it casts take us through the days that begin to layer with the quest for staying cosy and keeping our mood buoyant. There is a curiously magical quality to light, feeling like a message from the divine and day to day through the darkness a temperate presence against the cold.
As our thoughts begin to turn to the end of the year with winter and Christmas drawing towards us, light plays a crucial part in the season. The putting up of decorations in public spaces, the dotting of fairy lights and discussions on when to put up the Christmas tree are all centred around bringing light into our homes and shared spaces.
Though as we consider light in the literal sense of daylight, or perhaps the light of a fire that also warms our homes, there is maybe another more metaphorical form of light, which could be the one of conversation. In consideration of the role ChatGPT plays these days, it’s said that speaking with AI is immediate and responsive. However, there is a striking difference between AI conversations and in-person experience. When talking by fire or at the dining table it’s notable how these responses are slower, with a combination of conversation that’s not always marked by words.
Historically artists have conjured conversation through the cafe culture of cities. Artists have ritualistically gone to the same spot to be sometimes alone, to watch and to speak with others. Anthony Bourdain, in his travels often remarked on the importance of the spontaneity of sitting at a bar, taking in the moment and talking to a stranger. In our fast-paced, uncertain world where somehow we are pressured to broadcast every event, as some digital communication, the unmeasured time we spend simply being is not spoken of much. Though it would be hard-pressed for even the most cynical of us to dismiss the power of time spent with another, whether that person is a friend or stranger the exchange of energy and presence is a light itself. The miracle of Christmas, and the stress often associated with gift-giving and cooking, can be replaced with the thought that this all gives us a moment, regardless of our faith to be with people, to listen and to share a light we all hold with others.
Suppose we were to instead consider light, in its many forms and remove the ‘Hallmark’ pressure of what things ought to look like, and draw from within, the light that can be shared from our own soul with both friends and strangers alike. Somewhat like the spread of a lit fire, we can provide warmth by the simplest acknowledgements of each other.
Finding light, particularly with the winter drawing in, is perhaps best found through time spent together and building lifelong memories.
The unique bone-warming heat of a fire and the magical dance of flames, have brought people together and offered them comfort throughout generations. Now, as our modern lives grow busier, we are rediscovering just how beneficial the soothing ritual of lighting a fire at home really is. Recent studies and traditional wisdom suggest that fire can offer much more than just warmth by helping us to relax, unwind, and transition from the stresses of the day into a peaceful restorative night.
Fire and its calming influence
Throughout human history, fire has been central to our lives and survival. However, it’s not just the life-giving warmth we’ve depended on. Studies indicate that fire can play a calming role, showing how campfires and hearths influence relaxationand even reduce blood pressure.One study demonstrated that blood pressure dropped significantly in participants who sat by a fire with the sound of crackling wood, creating a multisensory experience of relaxation. This effect was strongest over time, suggesting that watching and listening to a fire may have genuine physiological benefits.
Colours of fire and their potential effects
The colours that dance within the flames are also a key part of a fire’s allure. While science is still exploring the psychological effects of colour, there’s a long-standing belief that specific colours have unique impacts on our moods. The warm orange and yellow tones of a fire are thought to have calming effects helping ease fears and worries. This may be why, in the low light of an evening fire, people often find it easier to let go of their daily concerns, creating a comforting environment where the mind can more deeply relax.
The hypnotic patterns of fire
When a fire burns, it often moves in a subtle, spiralling and mesmerising spiralling way. This rhythmic, almost hypnotic motion of gentle spirals and sways of a flame are inherently relaxing to watch. While more research is needed to fully understand the psychological impact, many people report that the visual flow of a fire has a meditative quality, helping to reduce stress and encourage a sense of calm.
The sounds and calming frequency of a crackling fire
Alongside the visual appeal, the sound of crackling wood is another aspect that draws people in. As mentioned before, the cracking, rhythmic sound is soothing in itself, but it may go a step further. There’s some speculation that these sounds resonate at lower frequencies, potentially in harmony with delta brainwaves, which are the frequencies our brains emit during deep sleep. While more research into this specific effect is required, the idea that the sounds of a fire might help signal relaxation to the brain aligns with why so many of us find fires deeply restful, especially before bedtime.
Lighting a stove can be a simple, rewarding ritual that separates the stresses of the day from the calm of the evening. This intentional act of creating warmth and light helps signal to our minds that it’s time to unwind. Just as our ancestors used fires to ward off the dark and create a sense of security, today, we can use modern wood burning stoves to create a comfortable space for ourselves and our loved ones.
The benefits of fire without the downsides
At Charnwood, we design stoves that harness the timeless beauty and comfort of a fire while offering clean-burn technology. Our stoves provide not only an exceptionally efficient heating solution but also a beautiful centrepiece that can offer calm in a busy life. The Skye E700, for example, utilises our revolutionary I-Blu combustion intelligence, which automatically optimises the burn for both warmth and reduced emissions. With high efficiency and a crystal-clear view of the fire, it’s designed to provide all the benefits of wood burning without the drawbacks.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot”. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
The Danish tradition of Hygge, which dates back to 1800, embraces the ritual of going inside and being cosy. This tradition has become so entrenched in Danish culture that the Danes look forward to the winter months. Anecdotes from locals suggest that, from September, plans are underfoot to invite friends into your home to share the darker months. Over the last decade, this idea of Hygge has reached us in the UK as the nights start to draw in. As the season changes, we get to enjoy the miracle of the trees wearing coats of richly coloured leaves. The deep reds, oranges and browns complement the change to the lower softer light of Autumn, working in an almost orchestral way with the leaves falling. It’s like a walk through the woods as the leaves begin to shed. It seems like nature is having a celebration of its own like confetti being thrown on a wedding day.
The beauty of nature’s changes in the season are sometimes lost on us, as we are subsumed by fears about a dark winter. Over a coffee with a friend the other day, a waitress suggested a comforting mint hot chocolate as the day was so grey. She explained that she had only recently arrived in London from New Zealand and was nervous about the winter, as she had heard how gloomy the weather would be. We had a small chat with her and explained that maybe this fear could be dispelled by seeing it, as nature does, as a period of hibernation. Spiritual practice teaches us that Autumn is a time for introspection and reflection, an invitation to sow the seeds within us for the Spring rebirth. In Gaelic tradition, there is Samhain, a festival that marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, which is marked by fire. It is a time of year for lighting fires and candles to remember those who have passed.
The quandary that the changing seasons place on our mood, in spite of these beautiful rituals, is a struggle with the early darkness, but this can perhaps be enlivened by a simple change of perspective. Wylde Market celebrates local and seasonal produce through Selon le Marché. This philosophy celebrates the season, the geography and what it produces. Autumn is, in many ways, the season in which the senses are most highly explored as we reach for cosiness. The simple way of finding this is eating or drinking to create an inner warmth. The smells from an autumn kitchen on a dark evening can provide the comfort of a huge hug, but when paired with the interior scene we set, the lighting of a fire, the burning of a candle or incense, we create a feast for our feelings and let go of the responsibility of each day.
When it comes to embracing this cosiness, some of us can be hindered from fully delving into it. We talk about our phones being a barrier to restfulness, the feeling of always being switched on, a kind of avatar feeding into the broader levels of anxiety we all feel in a world that seems ever uncertain, not least of all in its political outlook. This instability often means that we can feel a slight guilt that arises from not always being available. Some artists have taken this to the point where they have rejected the full use of mobile phones. It is rumoured that the artist Prince actively rid his life of clocks, as he saw them as a block to his creativity. The clock seems a simpler dictator than the phone, but the measure of somehow being constantly on watch makes the need to switch off paramount to our own sense of shared humanity.
In his book ‘Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools,’ Tyler Stanton argues that the clock, the light bulb and the iPhone have moved us away from living within the natural rhythms of nature, such as day and night. As we measure the efficiency of our time through the use of clocks, extend working hours by light and have the constant distraction and entertainment of the phone at our fingertips, the time that we have to get bored, and the space to have an awareness for God and a wider outlook to others is limited. The active intention of setting space and silence is what really allows us to hear.
During Covid, as the world stood still, this sense of a shared humanity became apparent through the weekly applause to the NHS, the sharing of food and looking out for our neighbours. Even birdsong seemed to hold more clarity during that time. As we move to a post-Covid world, this search for cosiness continues. Mintel research suggests this is apparent through cooking from scratch as a way of responding to the continued uncertainty. Though it seems to take a crisis for us to look further afield than our own lives, nature works defiantly towards flourishing through connection. The increased biodiversity when nature is allowed to make these connections can be seen in traditional indigenous farming methods such as agroforestry and agrofarming.
So as we embrace Autumn and the winter months ahead, we could take a literal leaf from mother nature and its interconnectivity to flora, fungi and fauna. This is particularly well captured by The Tree of Life mythology. This tree across cultures, represents the source of life and the connection of all lives. The roots of the branches symbolise interdependence in all its forms. So perhaps in those moments we can take the Tree of Life analogy and embrace the season of Autumn by not only going inwards but also looking outwards and seeing where it might also help our neighbour.
Among the many heating solutions available in the UK and around the world, a modern wood burner brings unrivalled warmth, ambience, and efficiency to UK homes. At Charnwood, the UK’s original wood-stove manufacturer, we’ve led the industry since 1972 with innovations that balance efficiency, design, and functionality. Our stoves, such as our clearSkies 5-rated models, are crafted with advanced Cleanburn technology, outperforming the strictest Ecodesign standards and achieving up to 90% efficiency, drastically reducing both emissions and fuel costs.
The efficiency of a modern wood burner
Modern wood burners, especially clearSkies models, offer dramatically improved efficiency and minimal emissions. By optimising air intake and combustion, Charnwood’s log burners not only provide a steady heat output but also produce an exceptionally clean burn, with 80% less emissions compared to traditional stoves and up to 90% less than an open fire. For those interested in sustainability, this means less particulate matter and a healthier environment inside and outside the home.
Selecting a modern wood burner involves balancing heat output with room size, heating needs, and personal style. Charnwood’s wood-burning stoves are available in a range of outputs from 3kw all the way up to 12kw, perfect for tiny homes and cosy little cottages all the way to spacious open-plan areas. It’s essential to find a stove that matches your unique preferences while also heating your space effectively. For this, the SIA Retail Group’s knowledgeable members are at your service, ready to guide you toward a stove that fits seamlessly into your home.
Our new revolutionary Skye E700 model has arrived, featuring intelligent combustion technology, which automatically regulates airflow for optimal burning and a hassle-free user experience. It really is just a case of loading your fire, closing the door and letting the stove do the rest. It is as simple as that. The Skye E700 has Charnwood I-Blu combustion intelligence which continuously monitors the state of the fire and optimises efficiency while reducing emissions through real-time adjustments. Air is introduced in just the right amounts, in the right places, at exactly the right time to ensure a consistent, cleaner and highly efficient burn. This is good for air quality and the environment, good for saving fuel and good for giving a crystal clear view of the fire. The Skye E700 has a remarkable 89% efficiency rating making it one of the very cleanest, greenest and most fuel-efficient on the market.
The best of British
We are proud that our team and the wonderful work they do has been recognised with A.J Wells & Sons receiving the most prestigious UK business award – The Kings Award for Enterprise 2024. By buying a Charnwood you are buying a best-in-class wood-burning stove and supporting a British Business that in turn supports other British businesses as we always ensure our suppliers are as local as possible.
Sustainability at the core
At Charnwood, our wood burners support a cycle of sustainability. We passionately support responsible forestry practices which ensures the health and biodiversity of our forests and that wood harvested for fuel is replaced, maintaining carbon neutrality and helping mitigate climate change. Locally sourced, kiln-dried wood fuel minimises transportation emissions and supports local businesses, while our clearSkies rated models (which outperform standard Ecodesign) reduce overall environmental impact by using far less wood to create the same heat (see image above).
Investing in a modern wood burner from Charnwood means choosing a heating solution designed for lasting efficiency, cosiness, and reduced environmental impact. Explore our range and find the perfect fit for your home’s warmth and style.
Why choose us?
Our stoves are crafted with precision and care, ensuring durability, efficiency, and timeless aesthetic appeal for your living space. With decades of experience in the industry, we are committed to sustainability, craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Experience the warmth and comfort of a Charnwood stove while reducing your carbon footprint and heating costs. Get in touch now to start your journey towards a greener, cosier home.
“For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” Isaiah 43:19
Each year, Autumn sees the trees magically transform from green to golden hues and shed their leaves. There is a distinct change of scent in the air, a new dampness and particular coolness that prevents us from leaving the house without the addition of protective layers. The transition seems seamless, almost like moving from one scene of a film to another, however, although we expect this transition each year, it always comes as a slight surprise. The early days of the season dawning often prompt discussions on which of us like Autumn. As the season progresses, we start to enjoy seasonal highlights like harvest festivals and the warming call of soup and hot drinks filled with spices.
As the journey into Autumn begins, we may look back regretfully on the last days of summer with a feeling of wistfulness, as the light and long evenings are lost and we move into the cold months ahead. The artist Vivien Zhang explores the influence of collective memory and the experience of our phones on how we remember events. Sometimes, her work argues, the cataloguing of events in thousands of pictures on our phones means that we don’t remember the real events, but rather the second-hand images of them. However, the seasonal change with its adjustment to light, temperature and the sounds of nature give us an opportunity to exist in every moment and be present.
It seems that, just as with all changes, the one that begins the new season acts like a reminder to stop and look. Thanks to technology, we live in a constant state of being switched on, rather like wandering through an information minefield. We are fully distracted by the next ping or notification that our phone gives us. It results in an anxiety that we all collectively feel. It comes with an unspoken suggestion that embracing uncertainty is scary. However, by embracing uncertainty and allowing ourselves to host the moment, recognise our feelings, dig deep and seek the guidance that nature bestows, we might find joy in simple things. There is certainly joy to be found in the beauty of nature but also in even smaller things, like a bird hovering on a tree, a squirrel delicately nibbling a nut or ducks doing somersault dives into the water.
There is something about Autumn that helps us hold still and look inwards, particularly as more time is spent indoors. In conjunction with trees shedding their leaves in preparation for winter hibernation, we could do the same. Perhaps seasonal change also allows us to take time from the busyness of a social calendar that’s more encouraged by warm weather.
But when considering hibernation, where do we start? Perhaps one way could be with the intention to find peaceful respite and be more disciplined in where we give our attention. That respite might be found by taking time to enjoy the simplicity of everyday rituals. These actions, often performed without consideration of time, are natural markers of the nights drawing in. These moments can be taken through rituals which draw us to gather together and share time with others. Those little ceremonies are just part of daily nourishment and unwinding can be found through spending time cooking or setting the tone of the evening by lighting a fire, not only for its obvious warmth but the sense of rest and the ability to gaze. Those moments give us the opportunity to transcend what might concern us day to day and commune with the universe and nature. In these gentler moments, perhaps we may have the opportunity to notice the simple things that we can all give gratitude for.
Earlier this summer, the Supreme Court ruled that when Surrey County Council granted planning permission for the Horse Hill oil well they should have considered both the environmental impacts of constructing the well and the environmental impacts of using the final oil product. In effect, they said that the full climate impact should have been taken into account (1). Considering the full environmental impact makes sense for these types of decisions; however, doing so does raise deeper questions.
Take the Horse Hill oil well. Whether it’s built or not, the people of Surrey—and indeed the UK—are likely to continue using the same amount of oil products as before. The extra capacity isn’t expected to lower oil prices, so consumption will likely remain unchanged. Instead of oil coming from Surrey, it will come from somewhere else. For Surrey residents, this might seem like a win—after all, who wants an oil well in their neighbourhood? But the same people will still consume oil, just without confronting how it’s produced.Consequences that if placed in full view of those that use the end product might just have a small effect in reducing overall oil consumption.
Would seeing the consequences of our consumption make us more responsible? Does owning the impact of our choices change our behaviour?
Research from Environmental Psychologist, Professor Louis Chawla (2), suggests this may be the case. She has shown that an emotional connection seems to be very important in shaping our beliefs, values, and attitudes towards the environment. A. Kollmuss & J. Agyeman (3) define this emotional involvement as the extent to which we have an affective relationship to the natural world. The ability to have an emotional reaction when confronted with environmental degradation.
Beyond environmental degradation,we should also ask questions about employee welfare and health and safety conditions of ‘faraway’ oil production – is it up to the same standards as the UK? What about decommissioning when the time comes, will that be done in a sustainable way? Our energy choices always have consequences, and real sustainability requires examining them all.
Heating Our Homes: What Does Real Sustainability Look Like?
When considering how to heat our homes, we have to ask: What are the true climate and sustainability impacts of each method? There are a lot of questions that need to be posed and answered to grasp the whole picture.
Equipment— Where is it made? How long does it last? Can it be recycled at the end of its life?
Most homesrequirea heating source, even with proper insulation. This equipment has to be manufactured, and that process has an environmental impact. As manufacturers, this is something we at Charnwood take seriously. We are proud to be a British company committed to making products responsibly and being a good employer. We are serious about keeping each other safe and we work hard to minimise our impact on the environment.We are part of the SME Climate Hub which commits us to work towards net zero and have ISO14001 Certification. Our suppliers are mostly local, allowing us to monitor working conditions, reduce transport emissions and by employing local peoplewe’re investing in the local community.
However, sadly our standards of practice and our ethos aren’t the norm as a lot of manufacturing has now shifted abroad. If true sustainability is being sought, then the employment, health and safety and environmental standards in these non-UK manufacturing companies must at least meet the levels we expect here.
One example is solar panels, many of which come from using Uyghur forced labour (4). The reliance of China to make solar panels makes us very reliant on them when unfortunately, relations are often less than optimal. Solar panels are frequently combined with battery technology which uses metals such as cobalt, mined using child labour in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (5).
True sustainability also compels us to consider what happens when a product reaches the end of its usable life. At Charnwood, we want to make good quality products which last a long time andhave the ‘right to repair’. End-of-life recycling is a crucial focus for us and influences our decisions at every level of the business. We strive to avoid contributing to landfill waste by ensuring our products can be repaired and reused. Testament to our commitment, we have been manufacturing for over 50 years, and many of our original products are still in use today.
Sadly, many heating appliances, and appliances in general do not have longevity and cannot be repaired. At a minimum, we need to ensure that they can at least be easily and effectively recycled. Currently 90% of solar panels end up in landfill despite it being possible to recycle them (6) – this is something that urgently needs to be addressed. It is the same for wind turbine blades, where many will soon come to the end of their life. It’s imperative to find ways of recycling these and hopefully this should provide a business opportunity for some.
Fuel or energy source used— How is this produced?
The fuel we use is critical to sustainability. Is it renewable? Does it harm the environment or biodiversity? And what about the human cost of production?
In the case of Horse Hill, for example, while an oil well in Surrey may not be appealing, not having it just shifts the burden elsewhere, where conditions might be worse. We’re still reliant on non-renewable fossil fuels, so we need to make responsible choices about where we source them. These sources may be in the North Sea, they may be in Surrey or they may be further afield, perhaps in Middle Eastern deserts or rainforests… Do we know the impact on human lives we are having whenwe choose to buy remotely?
Solar and wind energy
Harnessing solar and wind power makes a lot of sense, it’s a renewable fuel sourceand the technology doesn’t emit emissions in operation. However, they’re not without issues—such as inconsistent supply, issues with recycling and the impact on local landscapes.
Growing wood for fuel
Wood, on the other hand, is a renewable fuel that can offer many positive benefits. Planting and managing local forests support biodiversity and energy security. One of our dealers, Scarlett Fireplaces (below), has a brilliant wood fuel scheme calledWood Burning in the UK 2024thatencourages customers to invest in local woodland for their stoves.
Emissions — What are they? How harmful are they?
In the simplest terms, almost every action we take results in emissions. Some of these have localised effects, such as smoke particles, while others, like excessive CO2 emissions, affect the global climate. It’s widely accepted that human-generated CO2 emissions are disrupting the natural carbon cycle, contributing to climate change. The severe consequences of climate change are now apparent across the world, with flooding, wildfires, and other extreme weather events making headlines regularly. Both local and global emissions matter, but arguably, it’s the global ones that have the most far-reaching and devastating impacts.
All of these factors are important, though impact with different levels of severity and we need to investigate the relative harm of each in order to discuss what true sustainability really is.
Dr Katharine Hayhoe, a leading climate scientist, writes about the comparison of deaths due to bad air quality compared to those of climate change. She states that premature deaths due to climate change are double or triple those due to bad air quality (7). However, the problem is that climate-related deaths disproportionately affect poorer countries, whereas wealthier nations like the UK experience much less of an impact.
Recently, I travelled to Burundi where in the capital Bujumbura the rise of Lake Tanganyika has been devastating – families have been flooded and many have died. Tragically, one family was even killed by a hippo who had come further inland because of the floods. The excess deaths because of climate change are apparent there for all to see and these are deaths of the young and old alike. It is also the case that poorer countries are disproportionately affected by bad air quality. Many homes across the developing world burn wood for cooking inside and suffer from high concentrations of smoke emissions.
In the UK, deaths due to climate change are very low, however, we are told that in London there are 10,000 excess deaths a year due to poor air quality, and 40,000 in total across the country. However, these figures are very misleading. In the BBC More or Less podcast Professor Anthony Frew discusses the 10,000 excess deaths in London. It is his view that even if air quality was drastically improved and the historical effects were removed, life expectancy would increase by just 20 days at the end of your life (8) – i.e 85 and 20 days vs 85 years old! Similarly, a University of Cambridge paper echoes this view, and concludes:
“There are huge uncertainties surrounding all the measures of impacts of air pollution, with inadequate knowledge replaced by substantial doses of expert judgement. These uncertainties should be better reflected in the public debates.
In addition, the situation in the UK is not what we would usually think of as a ‘crisis’. It can still be good to seek improvements in air quality, but only provided these are based on a careful analysis of the costs per life-year saved.” (9)
Despite the figures of deaths being grossly misleading, we do not seek to downplay the impact of smoke pollution on anyone caused by poor wood-burning practices. It is essential that where wood burning occurs, efficient modern appliances are properly installed and the right fuel is used. However, the potential issues arising from improper installation of wood-burning appliances are not unique to this technology; problems can occur with other heating solutions. For instance, a poorly installed heat pump in the wrong location can generate noise pollution and disturb neighbours. Whatever technology is being used it is vital to ensure that these installations are carried out correctly.
So, what does this mean for the choices we make to heat our homes? Below is a table highlighting various heating solutions detailing some of their key positives and negatives (+ / – ).
Campaigners on all sides are motivated to push their preferred solution while knocking the rest. As a manufacturer of wood-burning stoves, we have been on the receiving end of those who don’t like the emissions of wood burning. However, these campaigners often stray into the realm of extremism by refusing to acknowledge the bigger picture. Although usually well-meaning, they can become unwitting apologists of the fossil fuel industries, or less politely,serve as their ‘useful idiots.’
Most of us by now are wise to the issues of burning fossil fuels. However, issues with other greener technologies are less commonly understood. As pointed out by environmentalist Max Wilbert in the Earth Island Journal:
“Behind each piece of green technology is extraction. A recent International Energy Agency report estimates that reaching “net zero” by 2050 would require six times the amount of minerals used today. Another research paper says this would mean mining as much metal over the next 15 years as was extracted between the dawn of humanity and 2013.
‘Mining is unavoidably destructive to the environment and human rights,’ says Jamie Kneen, co-founder of Mining Watch Canada and one of the world’s leading watchdogs of the industry.” (10)
Solar panels on our factory roofs on the Isle of Wight
We’re not saying these technologies are inherently bad. In fact, we’ve made a significant investment in solar panels on our factory roofs, generating well over 1GW of energy to date. However, the uncomfortable truth is that all of our actions have environmental consequences, with our choices being limited to affecting the size of this impact. There is no perfect heating solution.
“Whenever a theory appears to you as the only possible one, take this as a sign that you have neither understood the theory nor the problem, which it was intended to solve.” Karl R. Popper (1972)
Despite the downsides of each heating solution, there are also, undoubtedly, many benefits. As stakeholders in our heating and energy security,we all have our part to play. For those in solar panel distribution, we need to find and create new manufacturing routes less reliant on China and forced labour as well as better recycling methods for solar panels. For us in the wood-burning stove market, we need to keep improving to reduce emissions even further. At Charnwood we are doing this by developing new automatic ways of controlling stoves – with the Skye E700 leading the way.
The Charnwood Skye E700 is an intelligent ultra-efficient stove which you can monitor and adjust from your phone
Working in conjunction with our environment surely is — exporting our rubbish to other parts of the world is not.
Burning wood, when using responsibly made appliances and using locally managed woodlandas fuel, can be sustainable. By being responsible for our local emissions and ‘owning’ our own waste and pollution it motivates us to do something about it and minimise it — like what we are doing at Charnwood most recently with the E700. It is also good for local circular economies by providing employment for those that grow, manage, harvest & deliver wood. However, this does not mean burning wood is always positive and importing pellets from North America to feed the Drax powerplant most certainly is not sustainable.
Solar panels can be sustainable, but we must ensure that we source these panels from responsible factories. Using panels that are made with forced labour is not sustainable and is frankly morally wrong.
It is difficult to ever class burning oil or gas as sustainable, however, we perhaps get closest if we use these fossil fuels from local oil or gas wells – that way we at least ‘own’ our mess and are more likely to alter our behaviours.
So, let’s take responsibility and try to look at the whole picture, factoring in the total impact of each technology.Let’s not oversimplify these arguments to the point we become extreme and refuse to contemplate and engage with other viewpoints. If we want to see genuine progress toward real sustainability, we must come together and collaborate in positive dialogue.
A full assessment of climate and sustainability impacts must be factored into the choices we make when heating our homes. The more visual the downsides, the more we will hopefully modify our behaviours, and where we can’t see the downsides of the choices we are making, we need to be proactive and choose to make ourselves aware.
A heat pump with solar panels and battery storage may seem like a good idea and it well may be!However, the sustainability equation must also account for factors such as the environmental impact of manufacturing the panels and extracting the metals for the battery, the recyclability of the equipment, the noise produced by the heat pump, and the reliance on fossil fuels when the sun isn’t shining.
Similarly, the sustainability impact of wood heating with a stove must also be carefully considered. Is it manufactured responsibly and under good working conditions? At Charnwood, we proudly say yes. Is the wood sourced sustainably? If you’re using a system like the one run by Scarlett Fireplaces, then it’s a resounding yes, as planting and harvesting local wood can greatly benefit biodiversity. And what about emissions? At Charnwood, we offer some of the cleanest burning stoves available, and our team is continually pushing forward with new technological developments to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions even further.
It’s by analysing the various impacts, strengths and weaknesses of each technology, we believe one of the best paths forward is a co-energy solution, combining renewable technologies with modern, efficient wood-burning. When solar panels and turbines aren’t generating power due to a lack of sun or wind, an ultra-efficient wood-burning stove can step in as a dependable heat source. This approach allows people to confidently embrace renewables, knowing they have a reliable backup with wood-burning.
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To conclude, of course, we are all more sensitive to what we can see in front of us, but it’s crucial to recognise our broader responsibility to the environment and communities beyond our immediate view. By embracing a more comprehensive understanding of sustainability, we can make better-informed decisions with widespread benefits.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-30)
As a child of immigrants, I was raised with the mantra of hard work, the significance of which was drilled in like instructions from your dentist to floss. You may roll your eyes, but the nagging guilt of that instruction stays with you. This mantra was a way of keeping the bar high and navigating the uncertainty that life presents, especially within the context of being foreigners in an unknown land. Being brought up within this philosophy brings both said and unsaid pressures that have somehow been embedded into my subconscious for which, in many ways, I am grateful. It has certainly resulted in a tenacity to keep going when others might give up. However, it has often been observed by friends, and as I grow older, by myself, that I sometimes do not know when to relax and take a self-care day. In those moments when I fall sick, and it becomes hard work to go further than my front door, the imposed need to rest makes me consider this idea more seriously.
Maybe the benefits of rest could be usefully written into government legislation, but perhaps making something like rest compulsory is a bit counterintuitive, and even a little Orwellian? French culture traditionally holds August as the month of rest, an unofficial cultural guidance that began with the universal closure of factories. There is something not only charming but infinitely practical to this ritual, which seems synchronistic to the psychologist’s definition of rest, which includes giving consideration to physical, mental, sensory, creative, emotional, social and spiritual needs. These categories give us a benchmark to examine our needs, away from tearing through each day with the pressure for results. In a recent study of hospice patients, some of the key findings were, “I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me;” “I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings” and “I wish that I had let myself be happier.”
It was only as recently as 1994 that Sunday trading was legalised, so the official day of rest and by default the observance of the tradition of Sunday Sabbath was overturned. As we regard with disappointment in many parts of the country the social loss of community, reflected in declining attendance to church which was once a common place for us to meet and reflect on the week. Where people from all backgrounds and walks of life shared not only their faith but time with the wider church family, forging relationships over the passing of time and giving people the rest from the preoccupations of the week. The loss for many of this ‘home’ has led to a pandemic of isolation and loneliness, which we can see in studies of the increasing levels of anxiety across different age groups. In the book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, author John Mark Comer says “Ultimately, nothing in this life, apart from God, can satisfy our desires. Tragically, we continue to chase after our desires ad infinitum. The result? A chronic state of restlessness or, worse, angst, anger, anxiety, disillusionment, depression—all of which lead to a life of hurry, a life of busyness, overload, shopping, materialism, careerism, a life of more…which in turn makes us even more restless. And the cycle spirals out of control.”
It seems that this materialistic demand to be productive is so ingrained in our culture, the quest for perfection in both our working and personal lives seems so relentless that we suffer from a need to ‘do’. A recent anecdote from a psychologist who had suggested his patient, a GP, needed to take a rest from work, scheduled an intense itinerary of art galleries and a busy social diary in place of work. This was not the rest that had been suggested, but this GP is not alone. Though we are now, more than ever, aware of the many practices that we can undertake in order to relax, from practising mindfulness to yoga and other such rituals that keep us focused in the present moment, it can be that the idea of actively telling yourself to be more zen can feel like pressure for another task to check on a list.
Certainly, the ability to relax and detach is a process that can ultimately lead to greater productivity, particularly when faced with the brick wall of over-exhaustion. In times of total tiredness, the notable moments can be found in the wonder of small everyday moments. The philosophy of Lao Tzu, and specifically the ‘art of not trying’ or ‘Wu-Wei,’ examines effortless action. This is best captured by trying to visualise each moment as an uncarved block, so giving your attention to treating each moment without judgment, free from the mental landscape of our mind. It almost advises one to be more childlike in the wonderment that comes with things anew. The belief that with the approach of being, as the Daoists say, in a state of flow where spontaneity isn’t stopped by the conscious mind and more is achieved by this nonconscious dominated way of thinking. The beauty in Wu Wei is a consideration for being part of a whole landscape. This state of flow is found through time spent walking in nature, staring out at the ocean or contemplating a fire rather than activities that involve more intensely obvious achievable, say, like climbing a mountain.
With this in mind, taking a walk through the summer heat I noticed a butterfly in camouflage. In sensitivity to its surroundings, it was hiding its beautiful wings and then reopened them when it felt the environment was safe enough to do so. Taking the time to observe nature in these fleeting moments, although I have seen countless butterflies, does in fact create a restful joy. The all-encompassing delicate butterfly, when taking the time to fully observe, quietened my mind from thinking about how to relax to just feeling it. This patient observation suggested to me that just going slower has such an important place in well-being. Perhaps without applying the classic New Year’s Resolutions to our lives, it’s just about looking. Nature is infinite in its opportunity for observation, from the discovery of tree names, new plants, watching birds chit chat in the park, there is a flow to nature that we are part of but so often we feel so separate from. These small simple moments, bring me to think about lighting a fire and the ability to rest and reset. The very process of lighting a stove, the drawing of the kindling and wood together before the fire is even lit, brings with it a feeling of just being in the moment, as using our hands and moving our body is very much part of the interaction needed to create that glowing fire. At Charnwood, we think about the building of stoves with these moments in mind and with an integral thought to the holistic picture of the environment and creating rest within a ‘hurried world’. We are given permission each time with a fire to rest and gaze, so it seems that the simple answer to rest is really to spend time truly looking.
Why Choose Charnwood?
For over 50 years, Charnwood has been a leader in crafting high-quality wood-burning stoves. Our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction ensures that we offer products that not only meet but exceed expectations. Whether you’re looking for a traditional stove or the advanced Skye E700, Charnwood has the perfect solution to keep your home warm and truly restful.
For more information or to explore our range of stoves, visit our website or speak to an official Charnwood dealer for guidance on what will best suit your space and other requirements.
A wood-burning stove’s superpower is the ability to heat a space while offering a host of other benefits that other heating solutions just can’t match. They can transform any room into a warm, inviting space, improve well-being and offer energy security and independence. Stoves come in many sizes to suit the size of your home and the spaces you wish to heat. A 7kW wood-burning stove is perfect for those larger spaces needing just a little more oomph!
In this blog we’ll give you the information and tools to decide if a 7kW stove is the perfect fit for your home.
Why a 7kW stove?
A 7kW stove is ideal for medium to larger spaces, typically ranging from 100 to 150 cubic meters, depending on insulation and if you have cavity walls. Unlike a 5kW stove, which is better suited to smaller rooms and well insulated modern homes, a 7kW model can provide enough warmth for larger living rooms with high ceilings and open-plan spaces. To ensure the best match, measure your room carefully and consider factors like insulation, the number of windows, and overall layout. Using a Stove Calculator or consulting a stove specialist can help you make the right choice.
Maximising efficiency and safety
To ensure safety and efficiency when choosing the location for your wood-burning stove we recommend consulting a HETAS-registered installer. They will guarantee that your stove installation meets all safety standards, considers chimney access, proper ventilation, and safe distances from combustible materials.
The benefits of a 7kW stove
Versatile installation options
With its larger heat output, a 7kW stove can be installed in more substantial rooms or spaces with a higher heat demand. This includes open-plan kitchens, combined living and dining areas, or even conservatories.
Eco-friendly and cost-effective
Modern log burners are designed to burn wood (a renewable resource) cleanly and efficiently, helping reduce emissions, unlike older models or open fires. This makes them kinder on the environment and a cost-effective solution, particularly as energy prices fluctuate.
Energy Security
Burning wood from sustainable sources reduces your reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, during power outages, a wood stove can serve as a reliable source of warmth, adding to your home’s energy security.
Wellbeing
The Charwood wellbeing study found that people and their families are getting significant well-being benefits from owning and using their stove. Learn more here
Exploring Charnwood’s 7kW stove collection
Charnwood offers a variety of 7kW stoves, each designed to cater to different aesthetic preferences and functional needs. Charnwood’s collection has something to suit every home, for those looking for a classic look or a more contemporary design. Here are some standout models:
Aire 7
The Aire 7 offers between 6-8kW of heat, making it perfect for larger spaces. Its sleek, minimalist design ensures it fits seamlessly into any setting, whether modern or traditional. The Aire 7 features Charnwood’s Quattroflow Air Management System which provides a crystal-clear burn, allowing you to enjoy the full beauty of the fire through its large viewing window.
Arc 7
The Arc 7 features a contemporary design and is equipped with an advanced air control system, reducing emissions with outstanding efficiencies of over 80%. So much so that the Arc outperforms the new Eco Design standards and DEFRA exemption limits. It’s an excellent choice for larger, modern open plan living spaces.
C-Seven
The C-Seven combines robust performance with a more compact design, delivering between 6-8kW of heat, which makes it suitable for various room sizes. Its classic design and and Cleanburn Airwash Technology make it a favourite among those looking for a reliable, eco-friendly heating solution.
Skye 7
As thoughtful in style as it is in function, the Skye has a refreshing design aesthetic; classically minimal with a soft modern edge. Whilst the Skye 7 is very easy to operate (one simple push/pull control), the ground breaking technology behind the cast iron casing ensures the user gets the very best efficiency from the fuel burnt.
The Skye E700: The Future of Wood-Burning
The Skye E700 is set to revolutionise wood-burning, offering a new level of simplicity and efficiency that removes the guesswork from stove operation. Simply load the fire, close the door, and let the stove do the rest—it’s that easy!
What sets the Skye E700 apart is its Charnwood I-Blu combustion microprocessor-controlled technology. This intelligent system continuously monitors the state of the fire, making real-time adjustments to optimise efficiency and minimise emissions. Air is introduced in precise amounts, at the exact right places and times, ensuring a cleaner, highly efficient burn every time. This means better air quality, reduced environmental impact, and significant fuel savings, all while providing a crystal-clear view of the fire.
With an impressive 89% efficiency rating, the Skye E700 stands as one of the cleanest, greenest, and most fuel-efficient stoves on the market. It eliminates the variability that comes with human operation, delivering a level of performance that even the most seasoned wood-stove enthusiasts can’t match.
The Skye E700 truly offers all the benefits of wood-burning without the downsides—ushering in a new era of intelligent, eco-friendly heating.
Maintaining your 7kW stove for optimal performance
It’s essential to burn only dry, seasoned wood to get the best performance from your wood-burning stove. This ensures a cleaner burn but also prolongs the life of your stove and significantly reduces any chance of chimney fires. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the glass, removing ash, and scheduling annual chimney sweeps, is crucial. For more complex maintenance tasks, or if you’re unsure, always consult a qualified stove engineer.
Why Choose Us?
Our stoves are crafted with precision and care, ensuring durability, efficiency, and timeless aesthetic appeal for your living space. With a legacy of excellence spanning generations, Charnwood Stoves is a trusted name synonymous with quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
We are excited to introduce the latest addition to our collection – the Cranmore Insert Stove which will be released in Autumn this year. Designed to seamlessly fit into an existing fireplace, the Cranmore Insert is a modern solution for those seeking to elevate the efficiency and elegance of their hearth and home.
Subtle elegance meets timeless design
The Cranmore Insert Stove is more than just a heating solution – it’s also something of a design statement. It offers a seamless, integrated look which effortlessly blends with your home’s existing architecture. The Cranmore Insert’s design draws inspiration from the Regency era, with its large single-framed glass door and archetypal detailing, making it a perfect fit for both traditional and contemporary settings.
Its large picture window showcases the mesmerising dance of the flames and creates a warm, inviting and cosy atmosphere. The Cranmore Insert is available in a range of colours, which can be customised to complement your existing décor, making it a versatile and sophisticated addition to your home.
Superior efficiency and ultra-low emissions
At Charnwood, we understand the importance of efficiency and environmental responsibility. The Cranmore Insert Stove, like all our stoves, is engineered for exceptional performance. Featuring Charnwood’s advanced clean burn Blu technology, this stove optimises fuel combustion to deliver impressive heat output while significantly reducing emissions. It has earned a clearSkies level 5 rating which means it outperforms Ecodesign standards. It is also DEFRA-exempt, meaning it meets the strictest efficiency and emissions targets for wood burning stoves and can be used in smoke control areas in urban towns and cities.
With the Cranmore Insert, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning stove while knowing you are making a responsible choice for the environment.
Easy operation and maintenance
Simplicity and convenience are key aspects of the Cranmore Insert’s design. This stove is equipped with a single air control that allows for effortless operation, enabling you to achieve the perfect burn with minimal effort. Additionally, the Cranmore Insert features Charnwood’s renowned ash removal grate to make maintaining this stove an absolute breeze.
The ideal replacement for open fires
If you’re looking to upgrade from an open fire, the Cranmore Insert Stove is an ideal choice. Open fires, while undeniably having charm, are notoriously inefficient and they produce significantly more emissions both inside and outside the home. The Cranmore Insert offers a modern, efficient alternative that drastically reduces emissions and significantly improves heating efficiency – saving you money on your fuel bill! Replacing your open fire with a Cranmore Insert, means you’ll enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home while contributing to a cleaner environment.
As we look ahead to Autumn 2024, we invite you to consider the Cranmore Insert Stove as your next home improvement investment. Whether you’re upgrading an existing fireplace or simply looking to enhance your living space, the Cranmore Insert offers a perfect blend of efficiency and elegance.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the Autumn launch!
