The energy crisis Europe is facing in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is prompting Europeans to prepare for winter by buying—or trying to buy—humanity’s oldest fuel: firewood. Prices for wood pellets in France have nearly doubled, reaching around 600 euros per metric ton, according to Bloomberg, while in August the price of firewood and pellets rose 87% in Germany, according to the Federal Statistical Office. In Romania, the government imposed price controls on firewood, while Hungary has banned the export of wood pellets. Deliveries of wood-burning stoves can take months.

According to Bloomberg, 70% of Europe's heating comes from gas or electricity. Fears of running out of gas or electricity this winter have sparked panic buying of firewood and pellets. A French retailer of wood-based products interviewed by Bloomberg noted that some of his customers have bought two metric tons of pellets, even though less than one metric ton is enough to last the entire winter.

The situation has raised concerns in countries such as Sweden, where there are fears that people might burn damp wood or other materials that can cause high levels of particulate matter pollution. 

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