Have you ever wondered what the environmentally responsible choice is for your Christmas cheer? Should you get a tree or no not? Real or fake? Rent or buy? These are some questions many of us face this time of year. No matter what’s your decision, there are some great points to learn.
Trees clean the air, capture water, reduce crime and combat climate change—they do so much for us. In short, trees are the lungs of our planet. It’s no wonder that we want to bring them inside and lovingly decorate them. There’s no need to just toss these beauties to the curb, though. Christmas trees have a special gift to give—mulch!
What’s an environmentally conscious person to do? Well, fret no more. We have solutions to ease your mind around the many quandaries of this holiday dilemma.
Real or fake?
Unless you already own an artificial tree, go with real. There are a couple of reasons, but the most argued point is that the time that the tree is alive benefits the planet. Yes, when you chop it down, that’s the end for the tree. However, the tree gave back so much when it was alive such as helping reduce carbon dioxide from our air and helping give back to the watershed among.
What about pesticides and transportation?
Like other things we buy, the more organic and locally produced the better. Look for Christmas tree farms that use low-spray and integrated pest management and/or are members of the Coalition of Environmentally Conscious Growers. Here are two for the LA area:
Mission Viejo
(714) 957-1608
Sherman Oaks
(818) 501-8637
Buy local. Most of our Christmas trees are trucked in from up north. But why not select a lovely California native, bring it inside for a week (not too much longer), decorate it, then plant in your garden? How about decking the halls with a Western Redbud or a Sycamore!
Why not dedicate a tree?
Dedicate a tree
this holiday season as a symbolic, thoughtful alternative to a traditional Christmas tree. You can order one with us anytime here to show your love for conservation and the environment!
Can I just rent a tree?
Yes. There is actually a local company that will help you do just that. The Living Christmas Co. will deliver a tree of your choice to your door then pick it up a few weeks later.
As you can see, there are so many wonderful options this time of year for spreading holiday cheer in your home. Whether you decide to adopt a living tree or get one from a reputable lot, trees are truly a gift that keeps on giving.
From our family to yours, the TreePeople team wishes you a happy, sustainable holiday!