How to Choose an Eco-friendly Christmas Tree

Jakarta – Christmas is just a few days away. Apart from decorations such as twinkling lights, snowmen, red socks, and Santa posters, the Christmas tree is one of the main things that are never missed to be displayed. 

Choosing a Christmas tree can't be done carelessly. Apart from the use of decorations, one of the things that is often discussed is whether to use an artificial tree or a real tree.

According to the American Christmas Tree Association, 77 percent of consumers they surveyed prefer artificial trees, while 23 percent prefer to display real trees. 

But which option is more eco-friendly and sustainable?  

Executive Director of The Nature Conservancy New York, Bill Ulfelder, says that real trees are actually a better choice. 

He suggests buying trees from local farms and some environmentally friendly ways to dispose of them.  

"There are several reasons, first because trees produce oxygen through photosynthesis, second because trees can purify water, and third because trees are habitats for wildlife. I'd rather see a Christmas tree farm than a condo when I'm abroad," he explained. 

"Then at the end of the holiday, real trees can be recycled, can be used as mulch, can be used to prevent erosion around the dunes on the beach, it's something I saw when I was a kid," he continued. 

However, the question that often arises is: how long can a real Christmas tree last? 

Most real Christmas trees only last about four to six weeks, but if you choose the best tree and avoid common Christmas tree mistakes, they can last much longer. 

"If you choose a healthy Christmas tree, the general consensus is that it will last for four to six weeks, which, if your tree is growing in December, then you have nothing to worry about," says Neil Miller, head gardener at Hever Castle & Gardens and environmental expert. 

 "Popular trees such as Nordmann Spruce or Fraser Spruce can last as long as five weeks if well cared for," Neil Miller continued. 

He also mentioned: "If cutting a tree straight from the garden, a good tip when doing so, apart from choosing a healthy tree, is to ask the seller to cut the base again so that it becomes a new piece, and then keep it outside for as long as possible, you can also put it in water so that it doesn't dry out,