Ever since the first trees were literally cut down and displayed in family homes nearly two centuries ago, the Christmas tree has played a huge role in our cultural identification with and celebration of Christmas. By the 1960s, our desire for convenience (and perhaps a little kitsch) gave rise to the artificial tree industry. And while many people still opt for the natural choice, the first major question that springs to mind for those looking to be more eco-friendly in their holiday celebration, is whether or not to purchase a tree at all.
Natural trees are always preferable to synthetic ones –most of which are made from petroleum by-products and can pose health hazards in the event of a fire due to toxins that are released into the air from burning. If cutting down a tree just so you can enjoy it for a few weeks seems unnecessarily wasteful, consider a live potted tree. You can place it anywhere in your home and after the season is over replant it in your yard or donate it to an organization that will plant it somewhere for you. This option eliminates the hassle of disposing of a natural tree especially if you live somewhere where there are no tree recycling programs or you don’t have access to a wood chipper.
If you opt to go with a real tree, consult the National Christmas Tree Association’s web site for a list of organizations that can help you recycle or replant your tree. This site claims that for every Christmas tree that is cut down 2 or 3 news ones are planted and grown making these trees a renewable resource. I don’t know if I’d go that far, but I do like the idea of a potted tree that can be transplanted after the holidays and continue to live on in all its majesty!
Of course, the greenest way to go is to skip the tree altogether. If you’re longing for the smell and ambience that comes with a real tree, you can re-create it by diffusing essential oils like Fir Balsam or Fir Douglas, Spruce Hemlock, and/or Scotch Pine. Mix in essential oils of Orange, Cinnamon, Clove, Ginger, Nutmeg and Cedarwood to experience the full spectrum of holiday scents.
