Sustainability of Christmas Trees: Real vs Artificial

Forestry experts provide tips for choosing the most sustainable Christmas tree, emphasizing the importance of reusing artificial trees and responsibly disposing of real ones.

• Every year, Americans buy between 35 million and 50 million Christmas trees, and many more use an artificial tree. About three-quarters of US households typically have some kind of Christmas tree.
• Both real and artificial trees have their pros and cons when it comes to sustainability. Real trees absorb carbon dioxide while they are growing, but this process stops once they are cut. However, their root systems continue to store carbon for some time, and new trees are typically planted to continue the cycle.
• Artificial trees can last for years and require almost no maintenance, but they are mostly a petroleum-based product and can take hundreds of years to decompose. The most sustainable way to use an artificial tree is to reuse it for many years.
• Disposing of a real tree in a sustainable way is also important. Recycling is better than leaving the wood to decompose in a landfill, as this can result in the release of methane gas. Trees can be chipped or shredded to create mulch, used as an erosion barrier, or donated to zoos.
• Choosing a locally grown tree can also reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. The most common Christmas tree varies by region, with different species dominant in different parts of the country.

3 Articles

ScienceAlert CBS News The Conversation