Once the holidays are over, getting rid of the Christmas tree is a concern for most of us. Throw it in the trash?  No, it won’t work, as it contributes to unnecessary waste in landfills.

The major disadvantage is that trees which are organic materials decompose anaerobically, which releases methane—a potent greenhouse gas that worsen climate change. Instead of discarding, Christmas tree recycling has several environmental benefits. It promotes sustainability, supports local economies, and beautifies public spaces, making it a crucial post-holiday practice.
Recycled trees can be turned into mulch, which helps enrich soil and retain moisture, or used in erosion control projects to protect landscapes and waterways. By opting for tree recycling programs, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also support sustainable practices that benefit the environment and local communities.

Benefits of Christmas Tree Recycling

Recycling Christmas trees offers numerous environmental and community benefits.

Tips on How to Recycle Christmas Trees

Recycling Christmas trees not only helps the environment but also supports local communities and promotes sustainability.

Christmas Tree Recycling Preparation Tips

1. Remove All Decorations: Before recycling, remove all ornaments, lights, tinsel, and any other decorations. Such materials can interrupt the process and may even cause damages for the equipment that is used to chip the trees. Removing the decorations ensure that the process can be completed efficient and safe. Also consider clearing off any excess debris.

2. Check for Local Recycling Programs: Go for the best local recycling program to understand the options available in your area. Some recycling centers offer curbside pickup, while others have designated drop-off locations or specific dates for tree recycling procedures. Learning the right procedure helps you to adhere to local regulations and supports the effectiveness of the recycling program.

3. Chop the Tree: If your festival tree is quite large, consider cutting it into smaller sections, which makes it easier to transport and process. If you’re dropping them off, many recycling centers require trees to be in convenient pieces. Use a saw to cut the tree into pieces that fit easily into your vehicle or meet the size requirements of the program.

4. Remove the Stand: If there’s a tree stand, remove it before recycling. Whether the stand is made of metal, plastic, or wood, it must be detached because these materials are not biodegradable and can’t be processed along with the tree. Removing the stand also prevents damage to recycling equipment and ensures that the tree can be properly chipped or mulched.

5. Avoid Flocked Ones: Centers often do not accept trees that are flocked or covered in artificial snow.  The chemicals and materials used in flocking can contaminate the mulch or soil produced from recycled trees. For flocked trees, it is ideal to dispose of it through regular trash services or find a specialized disposal service.

6. Stick to Pickup Schedules: If you are opting curbside pickup for Christmas tree recycling, make sure you have an idea of the collection schedule. Place your tree at the curb on the correct day to ensure it gets picked up. 

7. Donate if Possible: Certain programs accept Christmas trees for community projects, erosion control or wildlife habitats. Donating trees to such programs can give it a second life and support environmental initiatives. 

8. Consider Repurposing: Why not reuse your Christmas tree at home? Make use of the branches and needles as mulch for your garden, or to provide shelter for wildlife during the winter months. Even after the holidays, you can use it to benefit the environment.

Choose the Best Recycling Directory to Find the Right Program

To ensure that your Christmas tree is disposed of responsibly, choose a reliable recycling directory that provides comprehensive local recycling options - curbside pickup schedules, drop-off locations, and more. Use Recycle Monster’s Recycling Directory to find the best tree recycling programs in your area. This directory includes details about special programs, such as those for repurposing trees for wildlife habitats or erosion control.