Posted on Nov 23, 2023 at 4:10 pm by Oliver C
As the end of the year approaches, the choice of Christmas tree becomes a major concern for many. With the growing awareness of environmental issues, it is crucial to ask the right questions to make a responsible choice. So, what type of tree should we prefer to reduce our impact on the planet?
Here are some tips to help you make the right choice.
Table of Contents
1. Prefer local trees
It is essential to opt for a tree that comes from local producers in order to limit carbon emissions related to transportation. Indeed, it would be absurd to buy a tree that has traveled thousands of kilometers when we have producers in all regions of France. To know the origin of your tree, do not hesitate to seek advice from a horticulture professional, a recognized circuit, or a department store.
The most common tree varieties in France:
- The traditional Christmas tree: spruce
- The king of trees: Nordmann
- The American alternative: fraser fir
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2. Choose a natural tree rather than a synthetic one
Faced with the challenge of climate change, it may be tempting to opt for a synthetic tree to limit deforestation and reduce our ecological footprint. However, a natural tree is actually more environmentally friendly than a plastic tree. Indeed, a study compared the life cycle of a natural tree and that of a synthetic tree made from petroleum derivatives in China. According to this study, a local natural tree that has traveled 150 km has a significantly more favorable carbon footprint.
The commitment of natural tree producers
Natural tree producers also commit to offsetting their impact on the environment by replanting a new tree for each tree sold. In this way, they contribute to absorbing the CO2 emitted into the atmosphere.
3. Opt for a potted tree with its roots
An even more sustainable solution is to choose a potted tree with its roots. You can keep it for several years or replant it after the holidays, which greatly limits the environmental impact of your tree. Note, however, that potted trees are generally smaller than cut trees, as the current trend is for ever larger Christmas trees (trees over 1.5 meters represent four out of ten sales).
4. The different tree varieties
Spruce:
This is the classic Christmas tree, but it has been losing popularity for the past decade. Its main advantage is its price: around 23 euros, it is one of the cheapest on the market.
Nordmann:
The king of trees and the most sold variety every year. It is known for its needles that do not fall and its beautiful dark green color. Its price generally ranges from 25 to 50 euros depending on the size.
Noble fir:
This variety combines the sweet smell of spruce and the properties of Nordmann, but it is rather rare in France. Originating from the northwest of the United States, it is not widely cultivated in France and therefore difficult to find in stores. In addition, its price is significantly higher than that of Nordmann (up to 20% more expensive).
Grandis or fraser fir:
These trees typical of North America resemble the perfect trees we see in romantic Christmas movies. They have a balanced and symmetrical shape that will appeal to lovers of aesthetic perfection.
Which is the most resistant tree to buy this year?
To choose the most resistant Christmas tree, you have several options. Spruce has a pleasant fragrance but quickly loses its needles. Nordmann is appreciated for its needle retention, although it does not have a distinctive fragrance. Nobilis offers a compromise between fragrance and needle retention but is rarer and more expensive. Pungens spruce, or blue spruce, has bluish needles and a pine scent, while Grandis or Fraseri are conical, dense, bushy, fragrant, and do not lose needles.
Opting for a natural tree is also more environmentally friendly than choosing an artificial tree, thus supporting local producers and reducing carbon footprint.
If you want to choose an environmentally friendly Christmas tree, prefer a natural tree from a local producer and, if possible, opt for a potted tree with its roots. However, to ensure the safety of your home during the holidays, make sure to never place flammable objects near the Christmas tree, as the risk of fire is too high. By doing so, you will be able to enjoy the magic of the holidays while responsibly limiting your ecological footprint.
