How to Sustainably Source Your Christmas Tree

 
 

Last weekend, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrived in New York, ready for its ceremonial tree lighting to ring in a season of holiday cheer. Of course, the tree’s arrival and its upcoming lighting is the talk of the town around here, but there is one thought lurking in the backs of all sustainable baddies’ brains… is that tree ethically and sustainably sourced? Probably not. Artificial trees make up the majority of Christmas trees set up in homes throughout the United States. There are so many reasons why people opt for fake trees. They are easier to take care of, way less messy, and can be simply tucked away at the end of the season with little to no further thought. However, there are equally as many reasons why people opt for a real tree too. Real trees hold more traditional value in many homes, and picking out the tree is itself an important activity for the family to do together. A real tree also seems like it would be a more eco-friendly choice, right? However, the debate on which tree option is the most sustainable runs deep, and there is not a clear answer. We are here to break down the pros and cons of both real and artificial trees, and then explore some of the sustainable options for this year's Christmas tree purchase. 

Real or Fake?

 

Credit: Vox

 

Artificial trees, although they can be used and re-used for years, still have a large carbon footprint. The production and shipping processes combined with their plastic material contributes to their negative environmental impact. However, that doesn’t mean that a real tree is automatically a more sustainable alternative. A real tree can be farmed, delivered, and disposed of in ways that are just as bad for the environment as these mass-produced plastic trees. The process of planting and growing these trees eliminates much of their carbon footprint because the oxygen that they release and carbon monoxide they take in outweighs the carbon emissions from their growth and production process. Tree farms provide habitats for wildlife, and their rotating growth cycle creates a steady supply of tree growth yearly on land that would not be viable for other crops. 

So how do you ensure that the tree you are purchasing is from a sustainable source? And how do you make sure that you’re disposing of your tree properly? Let’s walk through the basics: 

Shop Local and Shop Small 

 

Credit: Wall Street Journal

 

If you already have an artificial tree, then the most sustainable option is to continue using and maintaining it to extend its life. But if you are opting for a real tree, or looking to replace a very well-loved fake tree, then it is important to seek out a source that is as local as possible. For many of us who live in metropolitan areas, it can seem impossible to find a tree farm nearby. However, you would be surprised! These farms are all over, and can almost certainly be found in your area. There are many resources for finding tree farms –we love this one in particular. This real christmas tree locator allows you to pick what type of tree farm you are looking for, including choose and cut farms, which tend to be the most carbon-friendly option. It is also worth considering uglier or older trees that might be going in a chipper instead of being sold. Although it is the messier option, one less tree will be wasted, and you will probably save some money too! You can also ask about potted or live trees as well. If you have a large backyard, you can get a live tree that you can actually plant in the ground following the holiday season. If you are like us and live in smaller spaces like apartments, you can get a smaller potted tree that you can grow on your balcony or terrace. There are also organizations that provide tree rental services, where you can rent a potted tree return it once the holiday season is over. The tree is then maintained and used again for years after that!

Christmas Tree Disposal

 

Christmas Tree Recycling Program in San Diego, CA

 

Once the festive season is over and it’s time to move that shedding tree out of your home, there are a few important things to note to ensure that your disposal process doesn’t lead to excess waste. Make sure that your tree is completely cleaned. Check all over for any hidden ornaments or leftover garlands that may have snuck their way inside those needles. Once your tree is cleaned, If you have your own large scale compost, you can cut your tree into smaller parts yourself and incorporate it into your compost pile. Many local and state parks will also take your leftover trees and turn them into mulch, and local compost services will also take christmas trees at the end of the year and take care of the composting process for you. If you have a wood burning fireplace, you can cut your tree up and let it dry out for the next winter (very Hygge vibes). If nothing else above is feasible, nearly every county in the U.S. has a curbside tree recycling program that you can participate in. 

Tree Alternatives

 

Credit: Pinterest

 

What if you don’t have a fake tree, and you don’t need (or want) the mess and hassle of a real tree? There are tons of amazing DIY and alternative tree ideas all over the internet that we are loving. Here are a few of our favorite ideas: 


The final word? If you are a real tree gal, then go forth and find that real tree. If you have inherited someone's old artificial tree, give it a long and useful life. And if you are just starting to create your own Christmas tree traditions, then maybe get a little funky with it. At the end of the day, if it feels like a Christmas tree to you, then it’s your perfect Christmas tree. We here at SB just want you to have fun, enjoy the season, and be susty while doing it.

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