Real or Fake, the great debate!

Photo from Flickr by Akiko

Yep it’s the time of year when the age old question rears it’s ugly head: Real tree or fake tree? Whilst most people choose simply on budget or aesthetic reasons for the eco-friendly population the answer is clear cut! Real trees outweigh the artificial trees in terms of being eco-friendly. In a Canadian study it was shown that a real tree generates 3.1 kg of greenhouse gases whereas an artificial tree will produce 8.1 kg per year. Let’s look at some of the reasons for this outcome.

Fake Trees

Most artificial trees are made from PVC, non-renewable plastic and extremely polluting to the environment. Some trees may also contain lead to make the ‘needles’ more malleable. Artificial trees usually last between 5-20 years, though are usually only kept for an average of 6 years, also when disposed of are destined for the landfill as they cannot be recycled. Artificial trees also have an impact on the earth in shipping and packaging as most are made in China and then shipped worldwide. The good thing about fake trees is they can reused year after year. No need to buy a new one! Just dig out the box from storage and you’re good to go! If you purchase a good quality tree, made in your country then the shipping costs go down considerable and the life of the tree will be extended. If you do buy a fake tree, please continue to use it until it no longer serves it’s purpose.

Real trees

These days most of the real trees are farmed sustainably however they are usually farmed using traditional agricultural methods using lots of pesticides and fertilizer. This process is repeated multiple times during the trees life until being harvested in 8-12 years. It’s much better to find a locally or at least state grown tree, and if possible one that is organically farmed. There are many many more local farmers who are using Holiday trees as a crop for the winter season, check out your local farmers markets, or look for farm stands in your city. Real trees can be recycled into mulch. Most city waste providers now offer recycling programs for Holiday trees picking them up from the curbside during the weeks after the holidays. The trees then decompose and nurture other plants and become homes for insects and animals. Another benefit of real trees is that they CAN be reused if you are careful, and replant in your own garden. This is a great way to enjoy a beautiful tree all year round, then perhaps next year instead of decorating a tree indoors, why not take the decorations to the living tree outdoors? Much more fun and more eco-friendly!

For some families the real decision is based on family traditions. Part of the holiday season is simply going out as a family and choosing the tree you want to decorate your home.

dalgal | My Bio & Articles