How to Celebrate the Season with an Eco-Friendly Christmas Tree...

The holidays are fast approaching and, with it, the bustle of wrapping presents, baking treats and decorating the Christmas tree. While the tradition of harvesting a tree from the forest (or tree farm) is a plastic-free endeavor that relies on a renewable resource, that doesn’t mean it’s void of environmental consequences.

Trees are one of the many gifts the planet gives us everyday of the year, but cutting down live trees for the benefit of enhanced home décor for a few weeks is the equivalent of single-use products. Even if you’re okay with the balance of growing and using a fresh tree, you might not have space for one in your home. Whatever your reasons for questioning a Christmas tree as the central element of your holiday celebration, consider Mother Nature while evaluating the alternatives.

When you think of Christmas, you probably think of the delight of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree...

But what probably doesn’t cross your mind is the impact that each aspect of Christmas can have on the environment.

Sustainable alternatives to a Christmas tree...

An Uncut Tree:

While not really an alternative to a traditional Christmas tree, placing a live tree in your home is an alternative to cutting one down. The size you choose is up to you, so figure out what makes sense in your space. A studio apartment can become festive with a tiny tree as a table centerpiece. A larger space will benefit from a tree in a pot. Either way, be sure to plant your tree afterwards.

Houseplant:

If you already have a large houseplant, convert it into your temporary Christmas tree with lights and decorations. Smaller plants can become a tabletop option, while larger plants can be placed on a small support that’s covered with fabric on the floor. This will elevate it to make room for gifts below.

Artificial Tree:

In short, we don’t recommend them. Nearly all artificial trees are made from petroleum-based plastic. They bring with them a massive carbon footprint that continues down the road when they lie in a landfill without decomposing. If you do choose to go artificial, look for a tree made from recycled materials. At least this type diverts plastic from a premature landfill dump by upcycling.