VIEWS FROM VANDEWALLE
As the holiday lights come down and families pack away decorations, many are left wondering: What’s the best way to dispose of my real Christmas tree?
Experts say that how we handle this annual tradition can have meaningful environmental benefits— especially when trees are recycled thoughtfully rather than simply tossed out with the trash.
Real Christmas trees are biodegradable, meaning they naturally break down over time—unlike artificial trees, which may end up in landfills for decades.
When communities collect trees after the holidays, most are chipped and repurposed as mulch or compost, returning nutrients to soil and helping conserve moisture in gardens and landscapes.
When recycled real trees are turned into mulch or compost each year, it reduces landfill waste and supporting soil health. Some towns or organizations provide curbside pickup or drop-off sites where residents can leave undecorated trees.
These trees can be processed into wood chips or compost materials used in parks, gardens, and public spaces.
Purdue Extension notes that real trees generally have less impact on climate variation or CO2 output than artificial trees, because artificial trees are made with non-biodegradable materials and contribute to landfill waste, while real trees are biodegradable and can be composted or recycled. Safe and Eco-Friendly Disposal Tips
Experts recommend several best practices for real tree disposal:
• Remove decorations and materials first: Ornaments, lights, tinsel, wire, and the tree stand must be removed before recycling, as they can damage recycling machinery or contaminate mulch.
• Check local collection programs: Many municipalities offer free or low-cost curbside pickup or drop-off recycling services in early January.
• Consider alternative uses: Rather than immediately discarding a tree, homeowners can repurpose it in their yards as wildlife habitat or garden protection. Tree branches can act as winter insulation for plants, and whole trees placed in ponds can provide fish habitat.
• Avoid burning indoors: Burning Christmas trees in fireplaces or woodstoves is discouraged due to fire hazards and rapid release of stored carbon; recycling or composting offers a safer and more sustainable alternative.
Across North America, communities have embraced seasonal tree recycling to turn a short-lived holiday tradition into long-lasting environmental value.
From mulch for community gardens to wildlife shelters in backyards, real Christmas trees can support local ecosystems long after the last ornament is packed away.
