It is estimated that following Christmas time, 250 tonnes of Christmas trees are simply thrown away. Whilst using a real tree every year is far friendlier for the environment than artificial trees, simply disposing of the tree is unsustainable. However, it seems as though the UK is beginning to find far more sustainable options when it comes to Christmas trees.
Froome Valley Farm Shop in Frampton Cotterell is offering a Christmas tree rental service, provided by Cotswold Fir Forestry, on fir trees over the festive period. The trees, once rented, will be delivered to people's homes and, when finished with, must be returned to the shop so that they can be replanted and kept safe to be used again in 12 months time.
Cotswold Fir Forestry first came up with the idea of renting trees five years ago. Since then, it has become an increasingly popular option at Christmas time, and the Forestry now offers the service through several different centres.
Craig Tennock, owner of Cotswold Fir Forestry, said, "We thought some people don’t treat trees properly, so we wanted to produce a good quality tree, and an option where they are looked after. We rent trees now up to seven and eight feet, and it’s a growing trend now, more people are choosing to do it every year."
Mr Tennock added, "Lots of people are choosing to do this because of the environmental aspects. You’re looking after the trees and not destroying them year on year, the trees are consuming CO2 in the air in people’s homes as they are live. It’s a beautiful thing and we are hoping to expand it even further."
Whilst renting a tree is certainly a much more sustainable option, the service may not be available near you just yet. So, if you are planning on buying a real Christmas tree this festive period, local councils often now arrange special collections of, or set up collection points for, real Christmas trees, which are then recycled. Usually the trees are shredded into chippings which can then be used by the local authority in parks or woodland areas. It is recommended that you contact your local council to find out more about their tree recycling options.
However, if recycling your tree, remember to remove all of your decorations first!
