Are Real or Artificial Christmas Trees Greener?

Benefits of  Artificial Trees 

They are re-used every year.

• They don’t produce as much waste as real trees.
• More economical because you do not need to buy a new tree every year.

Clean

• Artificial trees do not shed their needles.
• There is no sap to make them sticky.
• No watering needed.

Safety

• This tree does not dry out and become a fire hazard.
• It is made from fire-resistant poly vinyl.

Size options and equal all around

• These are all the same all the way around, no imperfections.
• Multiple sizes and styles.

Negatives of Artificial Trees

• Very difficult to recycle. It leaches plasticizers, stabilizers into landfills.
• Lack of scent
• Many known carcinogens including dioxin, ethylene dichloride, vinyl chloride, and heavy metals are produced when PVC is made. This pollutes neighborhoods near factory sites.
• The effects of these toxins can hinder; male reproduction, development,pregnancy loss, female infertility, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
• 85% of fake trees sold in North America Originate from China.
• Contain Lead and other additives linked to kidney, neurological and reproductive system damage in lab animals.
• Many fake trees have a warning label telling you to avoid inhaling or eating dust particles.
• Petroleum is used to make them (not sustainable)

Benefits of Real Trees 

• They are absorbing Carbon Dioxide and emitting fresh oxygen.
• For every tree that is cut down they plant 1-3 seeds.
• They are farmed in US & Canada so less distance to travel.
• 100% biodegradable
• No toxic chemicals (if organically grown).
• Able to be recycled, it is composted.

Negatives of Real Trees

• Pesticides and fertilizers, if used contribute to pollution of watershed.
• Lots of holiday trees are discarded.
• It takes 7 years to grow a average 7-foot tree, so there are thousands of acres used in the production of them.
• Fire Hazard.

The More Environmental Option 

If you already have an artificial tree, don’t throw it away.

Real Christmas Trees have the least amount of environmental harm.

The best option is to buy a live tree. These are potted trees that will continue to live after the Christmas season. They can be planted in your yard, also there are Trees for Rent and The Living Christmas Company. These companies provides trees and then takes them back and allows them to grow taller for the next year. A live tree is the best option for a truly environmental  Merry Christmas.

What kind of tree are you using for the holidays? In your opinion what do you think is the most environmental? Will the industry be able to move towards renting real trees?

“O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree! Thy leaves are so unchanging; Not only green when summer’s here, but also when ’tis cold and drear…”

~Unknown Author