Real vs Fake: The sustainable Christmas tree debate

Real Christmas trees are often a more sustainable choice than artificial ones, provided they are disposed of responsibly, according to new research from the University of Sheffield. The study, conducted by the university’s Grantham Centre for Sustainable Futures, reveals that while artificial trees can be reused, they must be used over five times to lower their carbon emissions below those of a real tree.

The environmental impact of Christmas trees varies by disposal method, and the study highlights that end-of-life options determine sustainability. Dr. Stuart Walker, Senior Research Fellow in Sustainability Assessment, explains: “As real trees grow, they take in carbon dioxide, storing it in their cells. Burning a tree rapidly releases carbon dioxide and pollutants, such as soot and particulate matter. However, recycling or composting allows for a slower release of carbon and partial absorption, making these methods more sustainable.”

For those seeking the most environmentally friendly choice, potted Christmas trees offer an increasing climate benefit, as they continue to absorb carbon over time, provided they remain potted or are replanted when they become too large.

While artificial trees seem practical, their environmental footprint is significant. Their production involves substantial carbon emissions, offset only if reused multiple times. Dr. Walker adds, “A fake Christmas tree must be reused over five times to reduce its carbon emissions below that of a real tree.”

The manufacturing process of artificial trees involves plastic and metal, which can harm the environment. In contrast, real trees, when recycled or composted, are biodegradable and can enrich the soil.

The research emphasizes that real Christmas trees can be a more sustainable choice if disposed of responsibly. Many cities, including Sheffield, offer recycling and charity donation schemes, allowing residents to ensure their trees are composted, recycled, or replanted. Dr. Walker explains, “Recycling or composting real trees helps to reduce their environmental impact, turning them into valuable organic matter rather than adding to landfill waste.”

In Sheffield, charity initiatives like Sheffield Hospitals Charity and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice offer opportunities for people to donate their trees for recycling in exchange for a small donation. This demonstrates how thoughtful disposal methods can mitigate the trees’ environmental impact.

This research on Christmas trees aligns with the University of Sheffield's commitment to tackling sustainability challenges. The university is also researching alternatives to single-use plastics and improving recycling systems, reinforcing the importance of making sustainable choices year-round.

Professor Rachael Rothman, a plastics expert and co-director of the Grantham Centre, advocates for systemic change in how we interact with materials, emphasizing the need to reduce waste and increase reuse. “Whether it’s a Christmas tree or everyday materials, reducing waste, reusing what we have, and recycling responsibly are small actions that can lead to impactful change,” says Rothman.

Rethinking our materials and waste approach can significantly reduce environmental degradation. This includes considering the sustainability of our holiday traditions and minimizing the footprint of our seasonal activities.

While real Christmas trees have a higher carbon footprint when burned, their sustainability benefits can be maximized through responsible recycling and composting. Potted trees offer a long-term climate benefit if replanted, and charity recycling programs contribute to sustainability. For artificial trees, reusing them as many times as possible is crucial to reducing their environmental impact.

Dr. Walker concludes, “The most sustainable choice is often something you already own, so reusing an artificial tree reduces its environmental impact.” This principle applies to Christmas trees and efforts to reduce waste and rethink consumption habits year-round.

At the Grantham Centre, researchers are calling for a shift away from single-use plastics toward systemic changes that address waste and environmental degradation. Professor Rothman stresses the importance of improving recycling systems, reducing plastic use, and increasing material reuse to tackle global waste issues.

By applying these principles, we can collectively impact and move toward a more sustainable future, not just during the holiday season but in all aspects of our lives.

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