New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio wants to curb air pollution by placing a ban on all new wood-burning fireplaces, the Democrat announced Tuesday.

The mayor proposes that new fireplaces use “cleaner” fuel-burning methods like natural gas, the New York Post reported.

Under the new regulations, residents who already have wood-burning fireplaces would then be required to use only firewood that has 20 percent moisture or less, the Department of Environmental Protection said.

“This city has a legacy of leading the nation when it comes to protecting the health and safety of our environment,” Mr. de Blasio said on Earth Day at Union Square Park.

“Today’s reforms — the biggest in a generation — will make a fundamental difference for thousands of New Yorkers living with asthma and pave the way for other cities around the nation to follow suit,” he said.

The mayor also said he would seek legislation that would require food trucks and refrigeration ­vehicles to switch from diesel engines to electric, The Post reported.

(Source: Washington Times)