Firewood is a so-called by-product of sustainable forest management: it is mainly produced during the maintenance of young forest stands when space is created for stable and resistant trees. The weaker wood that is removed in the process is not suitable for higher-value use in the form of furniture or construction timber. On the other hand, it is good for use as firewood as it is easy to split. "The intention of forest management is therefore not to use it as firewood, but to maintain and stabilize the forest stands. Despite the high proportion of damaged trees, active investment must also be made in maintenance to preserve the forest and ensure a stable forest for the future. If the resulting wood is put to the best possible use, the use of firewood is a contribution to active climate protection," says Dr. Simon Boden, Head of the District Office's Forestry Department.
Environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels
Firewood is stored solar energy - when it burns, it only releases as much carbon dioxide as it previously absorbed during its growth. This makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels such as oil or gas. In addition, the value creation cycle remains in the district: the wood comes from local municipal forests and is marketed locally. It is therefore used locally, without long transportation routes and with low carbon dioxide emissions. So anyone who buys regional firewood is not only investing in a climate-friendly source of heat, but is also actively supporting the establishment of climate-stable mixed forests in the Ludwigsburg district.
When processing the wood, the regulations on personal protective equipment must be observed. This consists of a helmet with ear and face protection, cut protection trousers and gloves. A chainsaw course is also a prerequisite for using a chainsaw. The requirements for firewood processing can be found on the website of the District Office Forestry Department.
Firewood must be stored properly and long enough to ensure that it burns cleanly. The following rule of thumb applies: Coniferous wood should dry for at least one year, hardwood for two years. The smaller the wood is split and sawn before storage, the better. It is therefore advisable to process the wood immediately into ready-to-burn pieces and then store them in an airy but covered place.
