'Tis the season for festive debates, and among them, the sustainability face-off between artificial and real Christmas trees. First let's unwrap the sustainability pros and cons, then get to the science and then The Golden Rules.
Artificial Trees: A Plastic Predicament
Pros:
Everlasting Enigma:
Artificial trees are the evergreen champions of reuse. With proper care, they can last for many seasons, reducing the need for repeated tree procurement.
Deforestation Deterrence:
By opting for artificial, you avoid contributing to the direct felling of trees, easing the strain on natural forests.
Consistent Carbon Footprint:
Despite production emissions, the carbon footprint of an artificial tree can be offset by its multi-year usage, making it a potentially greener choice in the long run.
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Cons:
Petrochemical Predilection:
Most artificial trees are crafted from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a petroleum-derived plastic that takes centuries to decompose, adding to landfill woes. The PVC used to make these trees is brand new, virgin pastic – no recycled content here!
Manufacturing Muddle:
The production process of artificial trees involves resource-intensive methods and overseas shipping, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Finite Lifespan:
Even the hardiest and well-cared for of artificial trees won't last forever, and once they've reached their end, the only option is landfill where they will likely outlast Ol' Nick himself.
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Real Trees: Nature's Festive Fling
Pros:
Renewable Resource:
Real trees are grown on farms specifically for holiday harvest, providing an eco-friendly alternative to forest depletion.
Carbon Capture Crusaders:
During their growth, real trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, acting as mini carbon sinks before they're adorned with ornaments.
Biodegradable Beauty:
Once the season ends, real trees can be turned into mulch or compost, returning naturally to the earth.
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Cons:
Tree-Trekking Troubles:
The transportation of real trees from farms to markets involves fuel consumption and emissions, especially if sourced from far away.
Harvest Hassles:
Some argue that cutting down trees, even from managed farms, contributes to deforestation concerns and disrupts local ecosystems and the soil
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The Sustainable Science
Ultimately which is more sustainable, from a full lifecycle carbon perspective, depends on the following factors:
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How many times you use the artificial tree
- How far both types of tree had to travel to get to you
- What you do with the tree after you no longer want it
The Golden Rules
Which brings us to the golden tinsel rules of Christmas tree-purchasing
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Purchase a locally grown or made tree if possible
- If you purchase an artificial tree, commit to using for at least 6-9 years. And conversely, if you think you’ll be buying real trees for 9 years or more, consider an artificial tree instead
- Avoid sending your real tree to landfill! Find a way to mulch or compost it instead
Even Better
Rent a tree! This service is becoming increasingly common around the world. Or make one from waste, found objects and a lot of love.
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