Christmas Trees, If Kept Alive, Become Carbon Absorbers

In a temperate climate, conifers such as firs and spruces absorb little carbon dioxide in their early years, but their rate of absorption picks up at around age 20 and increases until 40 or 50 years, after which the growth rate of carbon accumulation slows until virtually stopping after 150 years. Because Christmas trees are usually harvested at a young age, they haven’t absorbed enough to compensate for the carbon emitted in their growth and harvesting stages, according to Chemistry & Industry. Thus, from a carbon standpoint, the best option is a potted tree that can be reused year after year.