Real or Artificial? Which Christmas Tree is Better for Your Carbon Footprint?
OK, this was a trick question cause the actual answer is no Christmas tree. The best thing from a carbon perspective would be to forget the tree and deck the halls with greens from your yard. Bonus points if you use discarded trimmed branches from neighbours or a nearby tree sales lot. This approach echoes the December holiday celebrations that predated the popularization of indoor trees during the Victoria era. Decorating a tree in your yard or a potted one in your house are also “no tree” options.
Before discussing the pros and cons of real vs fake trees it is important to note that some don’t have a choice. Real trees can be problematic for those with allergies or respiratory health challenges. In many cases they are prohibited by apartment property owners or condo rules. Finally, the supply of local trees has been impacted by drought conditions and prices are expected to be up by 15-20%. A lot of money for something that is used for a few weeks.
When it comes to carbon footprint a real tree is preferable, right? Well, it depends. A local tree grown without chemical fertilizers and transported a short distance to the home is optimal. That changes if the annual tree-cutting involves multiple family vehicles driving out to the farm together. If the tree comes from Nova Scotia or Quebec the equation changes. And what happens after the holidays? Does the tree go to landfill or is it reused by organizations like the Royal Botanical Gardens? The year after year carbon impact adds up.
There is no question that a PVC plastic and aluminum tree manufactured in and transported from China has some big problems when it comes to carbon. The “imbedded carbon” is high, but the overall footprint declines once the tree reaches your home. When you have used an artificial tree for more than 8-10 years the impacts are comparable to real trees. Buying a second-hand tree is even better.
Finally, there are other creative ways to tree your home like this minimalist version.
Whatever you do, enjoy your holiday season.
The David Suzuki Foundation has more ideas about greening your holidays. View Here