Real Christmas Trees: The Greener, Healthier Choice Over Artificial

Artificial trees seem economical — buy once, use forever. But the environmental and health math favors real trees decisively.

Artificial Trees: Hidden Costs

• Material: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) — petroleum-based, non-renewable, polluting production.
• Toxins: PVC manufacturing releases dioxins, ethylene dichloride, vinyl chloride — known carcinogens.
• Lead: Used as PVC stabilizer. Linked to neurological, kidney, reproductive harm. Fake trees shed lead-laced dust. 85% of U.S. artificial trees come from China (spotty lead regulation).
• Disposal: Non-biodegradable. Landfill = permanent. Incineration = dioxin emissions.

Real Trees: Environmental Assets

• Carbon sequestration: 8–12 yr growth absorbs 90,000–135,000 lbs CO₂/acre.
• Land use: Farms occupy marginal land (slopes, under power lines) unsuitable for crops.
• Renewable cycle: 1–3 trees replanted per harvest. Population stable or growing.
• Recyclable: Mulch for gardens, erosion control, habitat. Boy Scouts often collect curbside.

If You Keep an Artificial Tree

1. Keep children/pets away; no touching.
2. Wash hands thoroughly after contact.
3. Don't vacuum dust — aerosolizes lead. Damp-wipe instead.

Real trees support farmers, sequester carbon, recycle completely, and bring authentic fragrance. ChristmasFarms.com delivers fresh trees to your door — no parking lot hassle. This year, choose the option that honors the season and the planet.