A forthcoming government-commissioned report has revealed alarming health impacts from gas stove use in New Zealand, linking the appliances to more than 200 premature deaths and thousands of childhood asthma cases every year, as reported by Stuff.
According to Stuff, the study, commissioned by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), found that pollution created by cooking with gas stoves contributes annually to over 3200 cases of childhood asthma and hundreds of hospitalisations for respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses.
The report, "Indoor Combustion in New Zealand Homes: Health Effects and Costs", was completed by the air pollution research organisation Emission Impossible, with support from economic modellers at Resource Economics. It examined indoor air pollution from gas stoves, wood burners, and unflued gas heaters.
Gas stoves emit pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, which can irritate airways and worsen respiratory problems. While international studies have long highlighted these health risks, this is the first comprehensive attempt to estimate the impact on New Zealand households, reported Stuff.
GasNZ, the industry group representing gas extractors and appliance suppliers, has challenged the findings. It questioned the reliability of the modelling and stressed that strict regulations ensure gas stove safety. The group also argued that proper ventilation significantly reduces risks.
As reported by Stuff, the EECA report adds to the growing global debate over the health effects of gas appliances. It may influence policy discussions on the country’s future energy use.
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