Central Okanagan

Photo: Contributed - CTV

A program aimed at encouraging residents of the Okanagan Valley to replace their old wood stoves with cleaner burning models received $22,000 in funding from the province today.

The Provincial Wood Stove Exchange Program is geared towards improving personal health and air quality. Their goal is to have almost 700 stoves exchanged by the end of 2013.

Since the partnership between the provincial government and the B.C. Lung Association began in 2008, over 5,000 wood-burning stoves have been replaced.

"The BC Lung Association is extremely supportive of the woodstove exchange program and our ongoing partnership with government and participating communities,” says Executive Director Scott McDonald.

“Smoke created by wood stoves is associated with many respiratory problems that can seriously impact one's health, and we are pleased with the program's continued success in helping to alleviate health concerns by replacing old stoves with cleaner, more efficient appliances."

There are approximately 116,000 older model stoves currently in use around the province that can affect the health of homeowners, neighbours and the overall air quality.

New emissions-certified wood stoves burn one-third less wood and can reduce smoke and particulates entering the atmosphere by up to 90 percent.