This is becoming an increasingly common sight in Greece.<br/> <br />Facing economic hardship, more and more residents are turning from expensive heating fuels to burning wood for fuel.<br/> <br />The switch is causing problems for the environment, as wood smoke can contain potentially harmful pollutants that have been linked to respiratory and heart problems.<br/> <br />The centre for disease control and prevention says the use of wood is likely to increase even further in the coming months as the weather gets colder.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (English) DR. DIMITRIS ILIOPOLOUS OF THE CENTRE FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION:<br/> <br />"The situation is going to be more serious over the next two or three months because we expect to have low temperatures."<br/> <br />The young and elderly are most at risk from the pollution.<br/> <br />This pensioner though says the government should reduce the price of heating oil so people can afford it.<br/> <br />Opposition parties in Greece have also asked for a reduction of tax on heating oil, but the government says it has not plans to do so in these times of austerity.
