European Union may ban patio heaters

The European Union is considering a ban on outdoor patio heaters, The Times reported. Opponents of the appliance claim they are inefficient and eco-unfriendly. The heaters have become increasingly important due to smoking bans that have forced pub-goers outdoors. The appliances have also seen widespread residential use.

Several U.K. garden center chains have said they will stop selling patio heaters. A spokesperson for the Horticultural Trades Association told the paper that garden centers were looking at promoting greener alternatives.

-- Sarah