I got involved in an interesting conversation not long ago about what is the most environmentally friendly Christmas tree, an artificial Christmas tree or a cut Christmas tree? There was a feeling of guilt about purchasing a cut tree or cutting down a living tree. The thought was that by purchasing an artificial tree, we would be more environmentally friendly. So, I did some research, and here’s what I found:

Artificial trees are shipped in from overseas, mostly from China, so there is a shipping cost and fuel consumption. Also, artificial trees can pollute the indoor environment. They can contain lead and PVC, which can be unhealthy in an indoor environment with limited ventilation. There have been documented cases where allergic reactions had occurred from chemicals released from artificial trees.

Buying a real, locally grown Christmas tree, rather than purchasing a tree from overseas will help our local economy. Christmas trees are grown on farms which help keep Americans employed. Another advantage to Christmas tree farms is that they keep land open for agriculture, which in turn keeps our landscape more rural. Most Christmas tree farms are organic, wherein any necessary pest treatments are low-impact pesticides such as oils and soaps.

The most important aspect of the American Christmas tree is its tradition. What better way to spend the holiday than at home with the aroma of a real, native Balsam or Frasier fir tree with lights, family, and friends? That’s a real Christmas.