‘Tis the season to choose a sustainable Christmas tree 🎄
Photo by Sean Foster on Unsplash
There are many options to choose from when it comes to Christmas trees and it can be difficult to know which is the most sustainable - real or artificial?🎄
Let’s look at the different options below:
✨Artificial
The majority of artificial trees are made from plastic, PVC, and metal and can be reused for many years. If used over multiple years (around 7-10, depending on weight and material used) they are better for reducing emissions than purchasing a brand new real tree every year. The catch? It’s estimated that most artificial trees are only used 4 times before they’re replaced for something new.
Due to the composition of artificial trees, they aren’t suitable for recycling and end up in landfills at the end of their life. This creates unnecessary waste and should be considered when we think about what is the most sustainable option.
✨Real
Real Christmas trees take around 10-12 years to grow to the most popular size of 6 feet. During that time, they can provide a habitat for wildlife and form part of a healthy ecosystem. If they are disposed of in landfill, they decompose and release methane which increases their environmental impact. However, they can be composted or reused as woodchip which reduces this impact.
✨The verdict
Unfortunately, there is no one right answer when deciding whether a real or artificial Christmas tree is the most sustainable. The most sustainable choice will depend on the tree, your plans for reuse, and then options for disposal.
However, to help you make the most sustainable choice for you, here are our top tips:
· If you already own an artificial Christmas tree, continue to use it for as long as possible. Avoid overconsumption at Christmas and save money by not purchasing a new, trendy, artificial tree each year.
· If you are looking to replace your artificial Christmas tree with another one, aim to get one second-hand and donate or sell your old one if it is still in good condition.
· If you intend to purchase a real tree, look for one that has been grown locally and is certified by the Forest-Stewardship Council (FSC).
· If you do have a real tree, dispose of it responsibly once Christmas is over. If you live in Nottingham City, they can be placed in your brown bin or you can book to have it collected here.
· You could also plant or buy a small tree in a pot which can grow outside year round and be brought in for the festive season. This spreads the carbon footprint over multiple years and avoids transport emissions by keeping the tree at the same property year-round. This makes them a more sustainable option if you’re after a real Christmas tree. Additionally, they’ll provide a habitat for the wildlife living in your garden or outside space! 🦔
Whatever you choose, the key is to maximise reuse and minimise waste. If we each make a few small changes this year to have a more sustainable Christmas, it adds up to a big difference! 🎅
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