Who Wants to Celebrate With A Dead Tree?

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Did you know that every time a Christmas tree gets cut down, an elf dies? It’s true. Ok, seriously, it’s a little crazy that we celebrate this holiday by killing a tree! Especially when there are so many other ways to decorate. Here are some options:

 

Buy a Live Tree

Stores like Home Depot sell potted trees. You can decorate them then replant them after the holidays. Decorate your living tree with stuff you have. Photos, concert ticket stubs, cookie cutters, twine, and any crafts your kids make in school, all make great Christmas tree ornaments.

Adopt a Christmas Tree

San Diego has a great adopt a Christmas tree program where “elves” deliver live trees before Christmas and pick them up again afterward to be replanted. If you live in the San Diego area, hurry because they are already almost sold out. Many cities offer similar programs, so do some research on Google or call around and find out who sells live trees.

Decorate A Tree In Your Yard

I love this option! If you have outdoor lights already, use them until you are ready to give them away. Or, you can recycle them with LED Christmas Lights. If you’re buying new Christmas lights, LED lights are a more eco-friendly option. If your town has a tree at City Hall or in another public place, take your family to the tree lighting ceremony, and enjoy a giant Christmas tree with the whole community. 

 

Reminder: Don’t Buy A Plastic Tree

A good rule of thumb is to stay away from plastic as much as possible, Christmas trees included. Most plastic trees get used about four times, then they’re discarded and end up sitting in a landfill. 

Next, check out my ideas for eco-friendly gift wrapping here! 

Photo source: flickr.com / Lori L. Stalteri