Christmas Trees

Reduce | Reuse | Recycle | Facilities

How do I go green?

Reduce

Artificial trees can be reused and no tree loses its life for these, but they cannot be recycled in the end.  Cut natural trees can be locally and organically grown, reducing greenhouse gasses and pesticide use, but they do require 7 to 10 years of farm resources.  If you want to fell a natural tree, use a hand saw instead of a chainsaw to save on carbon emissions. 
Living (potted) trees can live for years reducing the harvesting of new trees each year.  Once they are too large for the pot, planting in the yard can be a lovely family tradition.  Make sure you select a tree that is native to this area and suited to your yard.
Avoid decorations made from fossil fuels such as tinsel.

Reuse

-Consider making decorations from the ones you already have to hang on next year’s tree.
-Chop up your tree and put it in the compost bin or take it to one of the local Chritsmas tree chipping events
-Look for artificial trees, tree stands and decorations in second hand shops or thrift stores.
-Plant live trees in your yard.

Recycle

The facilities listed below will accept natural Christmas trees as an organic material for composting year round.  An even better option are the Christmas tree chipping events that a number of not for profit organizations hold Christmas every year.  Trees are accepted and chipped by donation as a fundraiser.  A list of these is posted on the CRD website during the holiday season: Christmas Tree Chipping Events 
Don’t forget that you can recycle your money too!  Buying from your local tree farm puts money back in to your local economy.  Donate unwanted artificial trees, in good condition, to second hand or thrift shops.