London Mayor Sadiq Khan is proposing stricter rules on the use of wood-burning stoves in certain parts of the city as part of a larger effort to improve air quality. In a letter to the UK government, Khan has asked for additional powers to ban the burning of specific fuels, including log-burning stoves, bonfires, and solid fuels, in private homes and gardens. These fuels are known to produce significant amounts of air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter, which can be harmful to human health. Currently, Khan can set up smoke control areas on public land, such as parks and community gardens, but he does not have the authority to restrict the use of wood-burning stoves in private homes, even if they meet existing efficiency standards. This request comes after a study by University College London (UCL) found that domestic wood burning is a major source of PM2.5, tiny particles that can cause serious lung damage when inhaled. The study highlights the need for more targeted measures to reduce local air pollution. Khan has made improving air quality a key priority, most notably through the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (Ulez), introduced in 2019. A recent study estimated that the Ulez has contributed to a 40% drop in deaths linked to toxic air in London between its launch and 2024. Building on this success, Khan has pushed for expanding the Ulez to cover more areas of the city, aiming to further cut pollution and protect public health. However, the proposal has drawn criticism. Sir James Cleverly, a potential rival to Khan in the 2028 mayoral elections, has argued that the mayor is imposing too many regulations on residents. He suggested that efforts should instead focus on improving infrastructure and safety, rather than restricting private activities like log burning. In response, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said it supports further consultation on granting the Mayor or London boroughs the power to impose area-specific bans on burning in high-pollution zones. Defra noted that in London, the high population density and close proximity of homes mean that even small increases in solid fuel burning can significantly worsen local air quality. The Mayor's office has not yet responded to the proposal.