Newsflash! It is NOT better to have an artificial Christmas tree! A real, fresh tree is actually better for our environment and provides health benefits to us.
Artificial trees are manufactured and generally not done safely. The process is hazardous and includes the use of many toxins — including dioxins and furans, vinyl chloride, ethylene dichloride, lead, mercury, and phthalates. These nasty chemicals are used or released in the manufacturing and the disposal of PVC, a plastic compound that makes up the tree's “silk” needles. Vinyl chloride, the key component of PVC, is a known human carcinogen and can increase the risk of a rare form of liver cancer, impact the nervous system and has been linked to birth defects. If your tree caught fire, the artificial tree would burn much more quickly than a fresh tree. The smell of fake plastic would linger throughout the house for months and is not healthy air to breathe. If you are going fake this year, be sure to unplug your tree lights before bed.
And no matter what you think, an artificial tree will NOT last forever! You will probably see it losing its shape and starting to look old and worn out in about five years. But, when it comes time to throw one out, understand these fake trees are not recyclable so they will sit in a land fill for months intact. There is good reason that artificial trees come with a "warning label" - the needles contain lead! The only true benefit of an artificial tree is allergy related.
Buying a real Christmas tree is great for our environment and economy. Christmas trees are planted (like any other crop), grown for several years, harvested and then sold. And each year, the process of life starts over! Of course while each of these trees are growing, they provide clean oxygen for us to breathe - sequestering CO2, providing a habitat for wildlife and supporting agricultural growth.
Plus, there are many more practical benefits like the amazing pine smell and the joy and fun of going with your family to pick out a tree - a great holiday tradition! You are supporting the environment by buying fresh and can rest easy knowing that your tree is 100% recyclable. You can either plant it in your yard or find a local lumber/home garden store that could turn it into fresh mulch. There are also many rent-a-tree programs that will deliver you a potted tree and take it back after the holiday and plant it somewhere that needs a dash of green. The only problem here is that they look slightly different than the typical Christmas tree.
Happy Holidays Everyone! Have a loving, happy and green Christmas!
- Elaine LaPersonerie - www.winkpr.com
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