Do Artificial Christmas Trees save Resources?

Using artificial Christmas trees saves more resources than using real trees if the artificial trees are used for at least 20 years. If they are discarded before then, they use more resources than if a real tree was cut down each year for the holiday. Artificial Christmas trees generally contain polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which releases carcinogens when it is made and when it is disposed of. About 85% of artificial trees purchased in the US are produced in China, which means that they require the use of a significant amount of resources to be shipped to the US. The factories in China typically are powered by coal, which is one of the dirtiest fuel sources.

More about Christmas trees:

• The average artificial Christmas tree is used for just five years.
• An estimated 400 million Christmas trees are growing on farms each year, and about 30 million are cut down to be used as decorations.
• About 13 million new artificial Christmas trees are bought in the US each year, and — including reused ones — an estimated 50 million are put up each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do artificial Christmas trees save more resources than real trees?

Artificial Christmas trees can save resources if used for many years. According to the American Christmas Tree Association, they must be used for at least 5-10 years to offset their environmental impact compared to real trees, which are biodegradable and often grown sustainably on tree farms.

What is the environmental impact of producing artificial Christmas trees?

The production of artificial Christmas trees involves energy-intensive processes and non-renewable resources, such as PVC plastic and metal. These materials contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and can be harmful if not disposed of properly. However, the long-term use of an artificial tree can mitigate these impacts over time.

How does the carbon footprint of artificial trees compare to real trees?

The carbon footprint of artificial trees is higher initially due to the manufacturing and shipping processes. A study by the Ellipsos consultancy found that a 2-meter artificial tree has a carbon footprint equivalent to about 40 kg of greenhouse gas emissions, which is more than twice that of a real tree that is burned after use.

Can real Christmas trees be considered a sustainable choice?

Yes, real Christmas trees can be sustainable. They are often grown on farms that practice crop rotation, preserving soil health. They also absorb carbon dioxide while growing, and after the holidays, they can be mulched or composted, returning nutrients to the ecosystem, as noted by the National Christmas Tree Association.

What are the benefits of using an artificial Christmas tree?

Artificial Christmas trees offer convenience and cost savings over time, as they can be reused for many years. They also present no allergy issues or fire hazards due to dryness, and they require no watering or disposal, making them a practical choice for some families.

How should an artificial Christmas tree be disposed of to minimize environmental impact?

To minimize environmental impact, an artificial Christmas tree should be donated or sold if it's in good condition. If disposal is necessary, check with local waste management services for recycling programs that accept PVC plastic. Avoiding landfill disposal helps reduce potential soil and water contamination.