To Tree or Not to Tree? How to Celebrate Sustainably This Holiday Season
As the festive season arrives, many of us face the perennial dilemma: to tree or not to tree? More specifically, should we opt for a real Christmas tree, an artificial one, or perhaps explore alternative options? Let's delve into the environmental impacts of each choice to help you make a more ecologically friendly and biodiverse decision this holiday season.
The Real Deal: Natural Christmas Trees
Natural Christmas trees are typically cultivated on farms, where they're grown specifically for the holiday season. These trees can provide environmental benefits during their growth phase, such as absorbing carbon dioxide and offering habitats for wildlife. According to the Forestry Journal, these plantations can serve as vital habitats for a range of species, including birds, insects, and small mammals. By carefully managing tree farms with biodiversity in mind, growers can create a positive environmental impact while meeting seasonal demand.
However, the ecological footprint of a real tree largely depends on its disposal method. According to the Carbon Trust, a two-meter-tall real Christmas tree, when disposed of in a landfill, produces approximately 16 kg of CO₂. In contrast, if the same tree is burned or composted, its carbon footprint drops to around 3.5 kg of CO₂.
When it comes to choosing a Christmas tree, the species you pick can also influence its environmental impact. Most Christmas trees fall into the coniferous family, with popular species including Nordmann fir, Douglas fir, Norway spruce, and, less commonly, Scots pine.
Native species like Scots pine (in the UK) or Douglas fir and Fraser fir (in North America) would be better at supporting local biodiversity, providing habitats for invertebrates and other wildlife, although no comprehensive study has been conducted to confirm this.
Imported species, while often prized for their symmetry and needle retention (looking at you, Nordmann fir), might not integrate as seamlessly into local ecosystems.
The Faux Fir: Artificial Trees
Artificial trees are predominantly made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a petroleum-based plastic, and are often manufactured overseas, leading to a significant carbon footprint due to production and transportation.
The Carbon Trust estimates that a two-meter artificial tree has a carbon footprint of 48 kg of CO₂., three times more than a real tree that ends up in a landfill. To offset this impact, one would need to reuse the artificial tree for at least ten years to make it more environmentally friendly than purchasing a real tree annually.
Plantation Considerations
Christmas tree plantations often function as monocultures, where a single tree species is cultivated across large areas. Monocultures tend to reduce biodiversity and typically require the use of pesticides and fertilizers, both of which can have detrimental effects on nearby ecosystems.
Riverview Christmas Tree Farm
However, there’s a silver lining: many Christmas tree farms are adopting sustainable practices to counteract these challenges. One such effort is the replanting of trees to replace those that are harvested, helping to maintain ecological balance over time. Additionally, the Soil Association, the UK’s largest organic certification body, has developed standards for organic Christmas tree farming. These include bans on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, instead encouraging natural pest management and soil fertility practices. These measures aim to foster biodiversity while protecting ecosystems from harm.
Growing a truly "organic" Christmas tree is no walk in the park. As Wicked Leeks points out, even the most dedicated growers face hurdles like chemical drift from nearby farms and strict rules that ban common pest solutions like ferric phosphate slug pellets. Plus, the term "organic" can sometimes be a bit of a stretch—some sellers skip herbicides and apply the organic label without the official certification to back it up. That said, many growers are genuinely committed to eco-friendly practices, even if they don't have the shiny "organic" badge to prove it.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
If you're looking to minimize your environmental impact, consider the following alternatives:
Potted Trees: Opt for a live potted tree that can be replanted after the holidays, allowing you to enjoy its beauty year after year.
Rent a Tree: Some companies offer tree rental services, delivering a potted tree to your home and collecting it after the festive season to be replanted.
Creative Alternatives: Craft a tree using sustainable materials like driftwood, books, or recycled items. This not only reduces waste but also adds a unique touch to your holiday decor.
Making Your Choice
Whether you go for a farmed tree, an artificial one, or one grown with low environmental impact, the key is to make an informed choice. If you already own an artificial tree, continue to use it for as many years as possible. If you prefer a real tree, it's best to select one that has been grown locally to minimise transport emissions. And if you want to go one step further, look for local tree recycling programs, or consider a potted tree that can be replanted and enjoyed for years to come. For those open to alternatives, renting a tree or creating a DIY version can be both eco-friendly and festive.
Looking to deck your tree with sustainable ornaments?
Explore Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Christmas Decorations for an eco-conscious holiday season.
Remember, the holiday season is about joy and togetherness. Making mindful choices contribute to a healthier planet, allowing future generations to enjoy the same traditions.