The work will initially involve clearing huge blockages of twigs and other debris from the flues.

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Typically, power plants release CO2 into the atmosphere through exhaust systems referred to as flues.

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Similarly, attaching thermoelectric devices to the flues of power plants could generate more useful power.

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Carbon monoxide can also build up when flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

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These plants are connected to the exhaust flues of the refinery and also to a nearby gas-fired power station.

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Officials from the World Health Organization have confirmed that this new strain transmits to humans more easily than previous bird flues.

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Obie had told him that the fireplace flues were no longer safe, that the chimneys were falling apart in the attic.

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Mr Pratten said he believed the economic downturn had also impacted on people not being able to afford to get boilers serviced, chimneys swept or wood burner flues checked on a regular basis.

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