The Christmas tree is a beloved holiday tradition, but choosing one involves more than aesthetics—environmental impact matters too. Should you go for a real tree, a plastic one, or explore newer options like renting or potted trees? Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option, integrate sustainable choices, and provide tips to minimize your tree’s carbon footprint.

Real Christmas Trees: A Traditional Choice

A natural Christmas tree, such as a classic red spruce (rödgran), is often the most environmentally friendly option, particularly if it’s locally sourced. Check out which trees are native to where you live. If you’re in Sweden; Swedish red spruces are well-suited to the local climate and require fewer pesticides than other types, like Nordmann firs (kungsgran), which are often heavily treated unless certified organic.

Pros of Real Trees

Carbon Absorption: While growing, a tree absorbs CO₂, helping to offset emissions.
Biodegradable: Unlike plastic, real trees decompose and can be recycled into mulch.
Local Sourcing: Buying from nearby farms supports the local economy and reduces transportation emissions.

Cons of Real Trees

Short Lifespan: Trees last only a few weeks before drying out.
Carbon Footprint: Harvesting, transport, and disposal contribute to emissions.
Pesticides: Non-organic trees may be treated with harmful chemicals.

How to Make It More Sustainable

Stick to a Swedish Red Spruce: Locally grown red spruces, especially those harvested without pesticides and with biodiversity in mind, are the greenest choice.
Recycle After Use: Most cities in Europe offer recycling programs for turning trees into mulch. In Sweden, they can even be used for bioenergy production.

Plastic Christmas Trees: The Long-Term Option

Plastic trees have gained popularity due to their convenience and longevity. However, their production relies on fossil fuels, and they are difficult to recycle.

Pros of Plastic Trees

Reusable: With proper care, they can last over 10 years.
No Maintenance: No watering or disposal issues.

Cons of Plastic Trees

High Initial Carbon Footprint: Manufacturing and transport generate approximately 40 kg of CO₂ per tree.
Non-Biodegradable: Made from PVC, these trees persist in landfills for centuries.
Recycling Challenges: Few facilities can process PVC effectively.

Tips for Choosing and Using Plastic Trees

Buy Second-Hand: Opt for a pre-loved tree to reduce demand for new production.
Go PE, Not PVC: If buying new, choose a tree made of polyethylene (PE), which has a lower environmental impact.
Commit Long-Term: Reuse your plastic tree for at least 10–20 years to offset its carbon footprint.

Potted Trees: A Living Alternative

Potted Christmas trees are an excellent middle ground. The tree remains alive, with its roots intact, allowing for reuse and even replanting after the holidays.

Benefits of Potted Trees

Longevity: They stay fresh throughout the season.
Replanting Option: If you own land or know a forest owner, the tree can be planted outdoors to continue growing.
Minimal Waste: The tree isn’t discarded but given new life.

Considerations

Cost: A potted tree is typically more expensive than a cut one. Prices for Swedish red spruces in pots start at 469 SEK on svenskagranar.se.
Care: Potted trees need watering and should be kept cool to prevent drying.

Renting a Christmas Tree: The Circular Solution

Renting a tree is an emerging sustainable trend. Companies deliver a potted tree to your home, and after Christmas, you return it to the grower, who replants it for use in subsequent years. Some services even let you rent the same tree annually.

Notable Providers

Blekingeplantan.se (Sweden): Offers rental of slow-growing fir trees that are replanted after use.
The Christmas Forest (UK): A similar service with delivery and collection options.

Why Rent?

Closed Loop: The tree continues to grow and sequester carbon after the holidays.
Unique Tradition: Many rented trees come with a name or number, adding sentimental value.

Practical Tips for Any Tree

Water Regularly (Real or Potted Trees): Ensure your tree stays hydrated to last longer.
Keep Cool: Position trees away from radiators or direct sunlight to prevent drying out.
Recycle Responsibly: Check local programs for tree recycling or repurposing.
Decorate Mindfully: Use energy-efficient LED lights and avoid heavy ornaments that could damage potted trees.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a Christmas tree, sustainability depends on how you source, use, and dispose of it. A Swedish red spruce, particularly if locally grown and organically harvested, is often the most eco-friendly choice. Renting or using a potted tree are innovative and sustainable options, while plastic trees can be an acceptable alternative if used for many years.

This holiday season, let’s celebrate responsibly by considering the environmental impact of our traditions. A greener Christmas is a gift to both ourselves and the planet.

How Sustainable Are Christmas Trees? Choosing the Right Option