The Real Thing

I've given you a few clever alternative DIY Christmas tree ideas this season, but I don't want to forget about the real tree. In my attempt to "green" my life I did some research on the pros and cons of having a real tree vs. an artificial tree. I was surprised to find out how having a real tree and recycling it is really the better environmental option. So now I can enjoy the fresh smell of pine in my home and know that I'm doing the "green" thing. Here's a summary of the benefits I found:

While They're Growing...



...real trees absorb carbon dioxide and emit fresh oxygen. If you've been paying attention to Al Gore, reducing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is very important right now. Also, it's important to think of the fresh cut tree as coming from a farm, not clear cutting the forest. Generally for every tree cut, 2 to 3 seedlings are planted on tree farms. The trees that are cut from forests are permitted and generally used to create firebreaks.

What About Fake Trees?



This biggest reason I found to not have an artificial tree is that most of them are a petroleum-based product, contain PVC and are manufactured in China, where environmental regulation enforcement is weak. There are also some real health risks involved with the manufacturing of PVC products. Lastly, most artificial trees end up in landfills after 6-9 years of use, where they sit for centuries.

Recycling Your Real Tree

I was very excited to find out all the different ways that you can recycle your tree. There's no reason to throw your tree to the curb anymore.


1. You can turn your tree into mulch or wood chips. Mulch is the probably the most common recycling use for Christmas trees. Mulch is used to protect other growing plants, by providing them nutrients as is slowly decomposes. You'll have to consult your local community to find a place to take your tree to be recycled.


2. Real trees can create new and improved wildlife habitats. Some states are gathering and unloading the trees into wildlife rehabilitation sites and they become cover for birds, raccoons, and other small animals, protecting them from predators. Other areas are putting the trees at the bottom of lakes that are void of fish habitats.


3. After all the devastation the Gulf Coast States have endured from hurricanes I was glad to hear how real Christmas trees are helping with coastline and coastal wetland erosion. These states are creating "tree fences" with recycled trees that help to slow down the erosion rate on these coastlines. So, if you are from this area of the country or know anyone living there, this is an amazing tip to pass along.

Here are a couple of excellent websites that I came across that you can explore for more in depth information on real Christmas trees. And don't forget to look in your local community to see what's happening with tree recycling in your area.

www.recycleyourchristmastree.com

www.christmastree.org

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