CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As families decorate their homes this holiday season, one question stands out do you get a real or fake Christmas tree?
But is there a chance one is better for the environment?
OUR SOURCES
WHAT WE FOUND
Let’s start with real trees. They are nature’s carbon absorbers. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, 25 to 30 million Christmas trees are sold in the U.S. each year. Three more trees are planted in the spring for every tree harvested. When recycled and turned into mulch or compost they can be a zero-waste solution.
However, if real trees end up in landfills, they decompose and release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Transport emissions from shipping trees over long distances can also add to their carbon footprint.
On the other hand, artificial trees, made from PVC and metal, are built to last for years. However, their production and transportation come with high environmental costs. According to the Carbon Trust, artificial trees have a large carbon footprint due to energy-intensive manufacturing processes. To offset this, you’d need to use the same tree for at least 10 years.
If you want to get rid of your fake tree, consider donating it to a local charity or secondhand store.
So, what’s the verdict? The choice between a real or fake Christmas tree depends on how you use and dispose of it. If you keep your artificial tree for more than 10 years, it may be an environmentally conscious option. However, for most people, the Carbon Trust recommends a real tree especially if it’s sourced locally and recycled after use.
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.