What's the most sustainable type of Christmas tree?

What's the most sustainable type of Christmas tree?

Want to know how to make an evergreen even greener? Make your Christmas one to remember fir-ever with these tree-mendous ideas for sprucing up the sustainability of your Christmas tree.

These tips are part of something bigger. At Hubbub, we want to see a world where everyone makes choices that are good for the environment. Check out what we do and how your actions add up.

1) Tree-cycle

A Christmas tree which has been cut off from the roots and soil is one of the least sustainable styles, but choosing a local supplier who grows them sustainably can improve its environmental impact. Don't be afraid to ask questions to the seller and refuse trees that are being cut uncontrollably from nature. If they are selling their trees sustainably, they will be more than happy to answer your questions.

You can also reduce your tree’s impact by making sure it’s recycled or composted. Drop your tree off at a recycling centre where it can be turned into chippings for paths or turned into compost, or check with your local council to see if they offer a special collection service.

2) Christmas in a pot

Who wouldn’t want their very own resident Christmas tree? Look for ‘grow your own Christmas tree’ services, where you can buy a potted tree that you can plant after the festive season and keep growing for next year.

Try Pines and Needles potted fir. If the roots don’t take hold, they’ll even collect and recycle your tree!

3) Rent a tree

If you don’t have the space in your home for a potted tree but really want some of that evergreen magic, why not rent a Christmas tree? A number of companies are now offering pot-grown trees that they nurture throughout the year and that you can look after over Christmas.

4) The party plant

Who said that your Christmas tree has to be a fir tree? Dress up your favourite houseplant (or treat yourself to a new one) and show it the love it deserves for sticking around all year. What better way to celebrate a house plant that’s making its way through the winter months? Plus, it’ll save you some money!

5) Tree-usable

An artificial tree has ten times the carbon footprint of a natural tree that is burned after Christmas. So if an artificial tree is re-used for 10 years or more, its environmental impact will balance out – but it's estimated that they are used on average four times.

Already have an artificial tree or looking to buy one to save money in the long run? The answer is simple, it's a tree for life so make sure you re-use your artificial tree year on year. It's also a good idea to check where the tree has come from, as many artificial trees are shipped from overseas, meaning their carbon footprint is higher. Try to source a local one instead!