There are a myriad of reasons that can influence a person’s decision to prefer having gifts under a real or fake tree rather than receiving gifts under a real or fake tree. Christmas vacation.
Reasons for choosing a fake tree include allergies or maintenance, while those who prefer real trees might simply like the scent that a fir, pine or spruce will add to their home.
But if you’re making your choice for environmental reasons, some might be surprised to learn that a real Christmas tree is the way to go.
Kelsey Leonard of the Christmas Tree Institute at the University of Waterloo points out that this is particularly the case in Ontario, where 418 Christmas tree farms are in operation.
“If you don’t have to travel far and you can go and support a local farmer who is also helping to maintain biodiversity and sequester carbon through growing trees, that’s a really important way to help our environment and the planetary health of our inhabitants. our region,” she explained.
His argument is supported by the David Suzuki Foundation, which points out that fake trees have a carbon footprint three times that of a real tree.
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On its website, the foundation also states that the trees are usually made of PVC, meaning they can only be recycled if donated, and that they also come from faraway places.
“You need to be conscientious about the transportation footprint, the larger carbon footprint of producing resources and materials and distributing that tree to get it to your home upon final arrival” , Leonard explained.
Ultimately, experts say that if you can make your artificial tree last for 20 years, then things are close to even Steven’s in terms of environmental effects.
Leonard talked about the potential benefits of a day on the farm for you and your loved ones as well.
“One of the great benefits of buying a real tree is that you can go outside, probably with family or friends, and be in nature,” she explained.
“You’ll meet farmers, connect with family and friends in nature, maybe have a nice cup of hot chocolate and see what happens to you in growing one in seven trees ten years. then be able to harvest this tree.
Leonard also said those who purchase a real tree locally would also provide support to the local economy, while allowing farmers to maintain biodiversity in Ontario.
What to do with your Christmas tree after the holidays
Although you can toss it to the curb, Leonard advises making sure your tree is free of ornaments and tinsel so it can be recycled properly and municipalities can grind them into mulch.
“It’s really difficult to use these trees and then they will end up in a landfill or some other form of disposal,” she said.
She also said there might be conservation programs, botanical gardens or other local nonprofits in your area that would use the trees commercially. environmental restoration projects.
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