The energy crisis affecting Europe in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine is prompting citizens across the continent to prepare for winter by buying—or trying to buy—humanity's oldest fuel: firewood. The price of wood pellets in France has nearly doubled, reaching around €600 per ton, according to Bloomberg, while in August the price of firewood and pellets rose 87% in Germany, according to the federal statistics office. In Romania, the government has imposed price controls on firewood, while Hungary has banned the export of pellets. Deliveries of wood-burning stoves can take months.

According to Bloomberg, 70% of heating in Europe comes from the use of gas or electricity. Fears of running out of gas or electricity this winter have led to panic buying of firewood and pellets. A French wood-based product retailer interviewed by Bloomberg said he has customers who have bought two tons of pellets, when less than a ton is enough for the entire winter.

The situation has raised alarms in countries such as Sweden, where there are fears that people will burn damp wood or other materials that can cause heavy particle pollution. 

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