12 Days of a GREEN Christmas- Day 1: Christmas Trees
It’s Christmas time and we’re getting ready by putting up our Christmas trees and decorating them with our favorite ornaments and lights. Have you ever given it any thought on what is the most sustainable option a real tree or artificial tree?
Cutting down trees is bad for the environment. (False)
Christmas trees are grown on farms, they’re grown for about 8-10 years. Once the tree is cut down the farmers plant 1-3 tress in its place. As everyone knows, trees provide benefits to the environment such as cleaning the air, providing oxygen, and habitats for wildlife. They are also biodegradable.
Oregon is the largest grower of Christmas trees followed by North Carolina second!
A reusable artificial tree cuts down on the environmental impact. (True)
An artificial tree is made from PVC and steel, likely shipped from China, and will eventually end up in the landfill… doesn’t sound so great… However, if you use an artificial tree for 5 or more years you are potentially reducing your environmental impact compared to purchasing a real tree each year that is disposed in the landfill. Disposing a real tree in the landfill, which many are, has a greater impact on greenhouse gas emissions, and water and energy use.
If you choose to purchase an artificial tree consider a tree that you plan to use as long as possible, for 10 or more years.
The best option is to purchase a real tree that is grown locally and recycled properly. (True)
Shop locally, minimize driving, and recycle the tree… sounds easy enough.
Most cities should have a process for collecting and recycling Christmas trees. In some places old Christmas trees are used to prevent beach erosion. Later this week I’ll provide some options for recycling your tree in the Charlotte area.
