The Environmental Advantages of Artificial Trees
The holiday season is upon us once again, and it’s time to think about one of the most beloved traditions – putting up the Christmas tree. For many, this means heading to a local tree farm to pick out a beautiful, fresh-smelling real tree. However, there is a growing trend towards using artificial trees, particularly those that are green and eco-friendly. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of choosing a green artificial Christmas tree over a real tree.
First and foremost, artificial trees are more eco-friendly than real trees. While it’s true that Christmas tree farms are often touted as sustainable, the truth is that these farms require a lot of resources to maintain. They require water, fertilizers, pesticides, and labor, not to mention the transportation required to get the trees to market. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, it takes around 7 years to grow a Christmas tree to a marketable size, during which time it will absorb around a ton of carbon dioxide. However, once the tree is cut down, it no longer has the ability to absorb carbon dioxide, and it must be transported to its final destination, usually to a landfill where it will take years to decompose. On the other hand, an artificial tree can be used year after year, reducing the demand for fresh trees and the resources required to grow and transport them.
Cost Benefits of Choosing a Green Artificial Tree
Another benefit of artificial trees is that they are less of a fire hazard than real trees. Real trees are highly flammable when dried out, and a single spark can ignite a tree in seconds. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2013 and 2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires per year that started with Christmas trees. On the other hand, artificial trees are typically made with flame-resistant materials that are less likely to catch fire.
For those who prefer a realistic look, artificial trees have come a long way in recent years. Many artificial trees are now made with realistic-looking needles and branches that mimic the look and feel of a real tree. Additionally, with pre-lit options, there’s no need to spend hours struggling with strings of lights, and there’s no mess of needles to clean up.
Finally, choosing a green artificial tree can save you money in the long run. While an artificial tree may cost more upfront than a real tree, the cost is spread out over several years, as the tree can be used season after season. Not only that, but with an artificial tree, there’s no need to spend money on water, fertilizers, or pesticides, and there are no transportation costs to consider.
Of course, there are those who argue that there’s nothing quite like the smell of a real Christmas tree, and it’s true that an artificial tree can’t replicate that fresh pine scent. However, there are ways to overcome this, such as by using scented candles or diffusers designed to mimic the scent of fresh pine.
In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for both real and artificial Christmas trees, choosing a green artificial tree has many benefits. They are eco-friendly, less of a fire hazard, and can save you money in the long run. With realistic-looking options on the market, there’s no need to sacrifice style for sustainability. So this year, consider making the switch to a green artificial tree and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.