Real vs. Fake: Which Christmas Tree Is Better for the Environment?

When the holidays roll around, one perennial debate takes centre stage: real vs. fake Christmas trees. With sustainability and environmental impact on the minds of many, the question arises: which option is better for the planet? To make an informed decision, we need to consider factors like resource use, carbon footprint, and end-of-life impact.

Here’s a deep dive into the environmental pros and cons of each choice to help you decide which tree aligns with your values this holiday season.

Real Christmas Trees: A Natural Choice

The Benefits

1. Carbon Sequestration
   Real Christmas trees are grown on farms specifically for the holiday season, acting as temporary carbon sinks. As they grow, these trees absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife.
2. Renewable Resource
   Christmas tree farms are part of a renewable agricultural cycle. For every tree harvested, many farms plant one to three more, ensuring a steady supply and maintaining green spaces.
3. Local Economic Support
   Buying a real tree supports local farmers and tree-growing communities, bolstering regional economies and reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.
4. Biodegradability
   At the end of the season, real trees are biodegradable. They can be mulched, composted, or used for erosion control, contributing positively to the environment rather than piling up in landfills.

The Drawbacks

1. Pesticide Use and Soil Depletion
   Many tree farms rely on pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, which can have negative impacts on local ecosystems and waterways. However, some growers use organic practices.
2. Transportation Emissions
   Depending on where you live, transporting a real tree can add to its carbon footprint, especially if the farm is far away. Choosing a tree from a nearby farm helps mitigate this.

Artificial Christmas Trees: Durable and Convenient

The Benefits

1. Reusability
   A fake Christmas tree can be used year after year, reducing the need for repeated production and transportation. Over a 10-year period, this durability can offset some of its initial environmental cost.
2. Allergen-Free and Customisable
   Artificial trees don’t shed needles, making them a cleaner option for some homes. They also come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles to suit personal tastes.

The Drawbacks

1. Material Impact
   Most artificial trees are made from PVC plastic, a petroleum-based material that is non-biodegradable and energy-intensive to produce. Additionally, the production process can release toxic chemicals.
2. Transportation Emissions
   Artificial trees are often manufactured in countries like China and shipped long distances, increasing their carbon footprint compared to locally sourced real trees.
3. End-of-Life Issues
   When a fake tree reaches the end of its life, it typically ends up in a landfill, where it can take hundreds of years to decompose. Recycling options for artificial trees are limited.

Comparing the Carbon Footprint

A 2018 study by WAP Sustainability Consulting sheds light on the environmental impacts of both options:

• Real Trees: A real tree has a smaller carbon footprint if it's composted or mulched after use. The impact increases slightly if it’s sent to a landfill, as it releases methane during decomposition.
• Artificial Trees: The carbon footprint of an artificial tree is approximately 40 kilograms of CO₂, equivalent to driving a car for 125 miles. To break even with the impact of a real tree, an artificial tree must be reused for at least 7-10 years.

Which Option is Better for the Environment?

The answer depends on your habits and values:

• Choose a Real Tree If:
  You have access to a local tree farm, are committed to responsible disposal (e.g., mulching), and prefer a renewable, biodegradable option.
• Choose an Artificial Tree If:
  You already own one or plan to use it for many years, reducing waste and spreading out the environmental cost of production.

Tips for a Greener Holiday Season

Sustainable Tree Farms

Look for trees grown on certified sustainable farms. Labels like “Certified Organic” or “FSC-Certified” ensure environmentally friendly practices.

Local First

Whether real or fake, buy locally. Supporting nearby farmers or retailers reduces the transportation footprint.

End-of-Life Care

For real trees: Compost, mulch, or donate to programs that repurpose trees for wildlife habitats.
For artificial trees: Extend their life by storing them properly, or donate them if you no longer need them.

Decorate Sustainably
Opt for LED lights and natural ornaments to further reduce your holiday footprint.

A Matter of Perspective

Both real and artificial trees come with their own set of environmental impacts. The key is to evaluate your priorities, whether that’s reducing waste, minimising your carbon footprint, or supporting local economies, and choose the option that aligns with them. By making informed choices and adopting sustainable practices, you can enjoy the festive season with a lighter impact on the planet.

Have a Merry Christmas.