From January 1, 2025, Barcelona will prohibit the use of gas heaters on the terraces of bars and restaurants, culminating the moratorium that allowed their use. This measure is part of the ordinance approved in 2018, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions in the city. Establishments may choose electric heaters, as long as they do not exceed 150W/m² and only between November 1 and April 30.
The ban on gas heaters was agreed upon after months of negotiations between the City Council, led at the time by Ada Colau, and the Guild of Restoration of Barcelona. The new regulations were supported by various political parties, including BComú, PSC, ERC, PDeCAT, and PP. Additionally, since its approval, the City Council has worked together with restaurateurs to adopt more sustainable solutions.
While in 2017 the ordinance was positively received by the restaurant guild, which celebrated the end of tensions with the City Council, they have not issued statements regarding the imminent ban. Starting in January, municipal authorities will be able to sanction establishments that do not comply with the regulations.
**Ecological Alternatives for Gas Heaters**
Some eco-friendly and economical ways to heat are:
– **Pellet or bioethanol stoves:** They are a sustainable option that distributes heat and can provide hot water. Bioethanol stoves do not produce smoke, toxins, or unpleasant odors, and do not require complicated maintenance.
– **Solar panels:** Solar thermal energy can be harnessed through solar panels or collectors to generate hot water. This hot water can be connected to other thermal emitters such as radiators or underfloor heating.
– **Electric panels:** They are a sustainable heating method that consumes 600 watts per hour (0.6 kWh).
– **Thermal curtains:** They help control drafts coming in through windows, reducing heat loss in winter.
– **Heat pump:** An economical option for heating any small space in winter.
– **Aerothermal:** An efficient heating system that uses renewable energy sources.
**The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Heating**
– **Contributes to climate change:** Reduces CO2 emissions and pollutes less.
– **Is efficient:** Does not waste energy unnecessarily and distributes heat properly.
– **Can save on energy bills:** Compared to gas or oil alternatives, it can be more economical.
– **Is environmentally friendly:** Uses renewable energies or cleaner fuels.
– **Protects the environment:** Prevents acid rain, a consequence of air pollution.
– **Promotes forest cleanliness:** The extraction of forest biomass helps clean forests and prevent fires.
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