The reassurance follows the publication of the Environmental Improvement Plan 2025, after the Countryside Alliance raised concerns that proposals aimed at cutting emissions could unfairly affect off-grid and rural homes. The Countryside Alliance says this distinction is crucial to preventing unnecessary costs and disruption for rural communities. Director of policy and campaigns at the Countryside Alliance, Sarah Lee said: "Wood-burning stoves are a vital source of heating for many rural people, with millions of homes across the countryside reliant upon them. The Countryside Alliance will continue to advocate for practical, fair and evidence-based policies, ensuring environmental ambition is matched by rural reality." The Alliance will continue monitoring government policy to ensure rural households are not unfairly impacted by future rules on wood-burning stoves.