Tis the season of Christmas decorating. Whenever this time of year comes around the same debate pops up in the eco-living community…What type of Christmas tree is best for the planet? Real or Fake?
If you are unsure what kind to tree to get, both sides of the discussion are laid out below :
– Cost effective, they will save you money over time.
– Fake trees can be reused for up to 10 years.
– More convenient, no pine needle mess and need to water.
– They are made from a plastic that is pretty much impossible to recycle so even if you use the same tree all your life it will still sit in landfill for thousands of years.
-85% of fake Christmas trees are shipped over from China releasing high carbon emissions.
– Real trees have a lower carbon footprint than plastic made trees even if they are purchased from Europe on industrial scale.
– If you purchase your Christmas tree locally you are supporting the community directly around you. The BCTGA website explains where you can find your local Christmas tree farm.
– By purchasing from tree farms you are supporting reforestation and upkeep of forests. One acre of Christmas trees produces enough oxygen for 18 people every day.
– Real trees are fully biodegradable. And a top tip : When disposing of your tree, if you have the means, using your tree as firewood reduces its carbon footprint by 80%!
– Live trees can carry pollen and mold which could set off allergies in you or your pets.
– It can be a pricey purchase, at an already expensive time of year.
Top Tip : Local charities often run ‘tree cycle’ schemes to raise money. They will collect your tree, woodchip it and use it for gardening, compost etc. A local one to our office is run by Mary Stevens Hospice.
What do you think ? Let us know what type will you be having this year ?
