Choosing an Eco-Friendly Christmas Tree

If you are committed to being paperless, trying to decide the best way to bring the beauty of a Christmas tree to your home can be a challenge. Both artificial and living trees pose some woes for eco-minded folks. To help you make the best decision, here are some points to consider.

1. Deforestation - Opinions on Christmas trees vary in terms of deforestation. Some environmentalists feel that having a real Christmas tree is unethical because it involves killing a tree for display. Others do not quarrel as much with Christmas trees grown on farms, not viewing that as true deforestation.

2. Waste - Waste from a living Christmas tree is a lot like paper waste from some people's points of view. Others think that Christmas tree waste is preferable to disposing of an artificial tree, which is made from plastic and won't biodegrade.

3. Origins - Christmas trees are clearly the more natural choice for the holiday season. Artificial Christmas trees are often made from plastic derived from petrochemicals. Some companies are now offering Christmas trees made from recycled materials, which would be more eco-friendly.

4. Longevity - If you opt for a genuine Christmas tree, you'll have to replace it every year, resulting in lots of waste. An artificial Christmas tree will last for many years.

5. Toxins - Artificial and living trees may both harbor toxins. With an artificial tree, there could be lead or other toxic chemicals lurking in the plastic. Choosing a tree manufactured in America can cut down on the risk of this some. Living trees could be sprayed with pesticides that are toxic, but you can protect your family from these chemicals by opting for an organic tree.

Paperless Kitchen wants to know: are you going real or faux for the holidays this year? Let us know and tell us why in the "Comments" section.

                     

 


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Back to the top