Fact-check: Is a real or artificial Christmas tree better for the environment?

Euroverify breaks down what we know about the carbon footprint of the centrepiece of Christmas decorations.

Transcript

00:00How sustainable is your Christmas tree?

00:08It's a big dilemma at Christmas.

00:10Is a real or artificial Christmas tree better for the environment?

00:14It seems there's not one clear answer.

00:17Let's start with the real option.

00:19Christmas trees are typically grown on a 9-year harvest cycle,

00:23meaning that for each tree felled, another is usually planted.

00:27Some Christmas tree plantations boost biodiversity

00:30and provide a refuge for declining species,

00:33although other human-introduced plantations can also displace natural habitats.

00:38In fact, much depends on how a real Christmas tree is disposed of after use.

00:44A 2-metre tall tree that is burnt after use

00:48emits just 3.5kg of carbon dioxide, according to the Carbon Trust.

00:53However, that jumps to 16kg of carbon dioxide if the tree ends up in a landfill after use.

01:00So, what about the artificial option?

01:03An artificial tree has a CO2 footprint of around 40kg, according to most estimates,

01:10depending on its size and the materials used.

01:13This means that the artificial option could be a better choice,

01:17but only if the tree is reused for at least 10 Christmases.

01:21But many experts also warn that the vast majority of artificial trees are shipped across the world,

01:26mostly from China, adding to their footprint.

01:29They are also notoriously difficult to recycle.

01:32In short, environmental experts recommend that if you opt for the natural option,

01:37make sure to buy a locally sourced tree and to compost or mulch it after use.

01:42Potted trees that are replanted are also a great option.

01:45If you go for the artificial option, invest in a high-quality tree

01:49and make sure to reuse it for at least a decade to minimise its carbon footprint.