The recent report by the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA) on the health impacts and economic costs of gas cooking has garnered significant media attention, highlighting the global concern over this issue. The study's findings are alarming: researchers from University Jaume 1 in Spain estimate that 40,000 Europeans die prematurely each year due to gas stove pollution, with an annual economic cost of over 142 billion euros for the UK and Europe.
The comprehensive nature of this research is noteworthy, as it analyzed data from the UK and 27 European countries. This approach is crucial given the varying prevalence of gas hobs across Europe, ranging from 33% in the EU overall to over 60% in countries like Italy and Hungary.The report underscores the importance of eliminating fossil fuels in new developments and retrofitting existing buildings. For organisations like the Global Cooksafe Coalition (GCC), this issue encompasses health, economic, and environmental concerns. As the world moves towards net zero, building electrification is seen as the most direct and cost-effective solution.
The findings have global relevance. In Australia, for instance, where 38% of households use gas for cooking and people spend 90% of their time indoors, similar health and economic impacts could be expected. Addressing the consequences of cooking with gas requires a multi-faceted approach, including cooperation with property partners and implementation of policy and regulation. The lack of accepted indoor air quality standards in many countries, including Australia and the EU, highlights the need for comprehensive measures such as ventilation standards, construction codes, and local planning mechanisms. In conclusion, the EPHA report and similar research emphasize the urgent need to transition towards electric cooking alternatives for a healthier, more sustainable future.