Tree today, gone tomorrow?

12.27.2007

The Bite:
Not likely. It takes years for anything - even organic things like Xmas trees - to breakdown in a landfill. Finding a community tree recycling program is the way (for your tree) to go.
The Benefits: 
  • Smaller landfills for the new year. Since most landfills are compacted so tightly, there's usually not enough air for trash (even trees) to biodegrade.
  • Chipping away at erosion. Tree recyclers turn trees not long for this world into wood chips, which can be used to help prevent erosion on beaches and hiking trails.
  • It's doofus-proof. Many cities operate seasonal curbside tree-recycling programs.
Personally Speaking: 
For years, Heather's dad used to cut down a tree on the family's land, wrap it up, and mail it to her via UPS every Christmas. Clearly this wasn't the most sustainable option, but it always seemed to entertain the UPS guy.
Wanna Try: 
  • Some municipalities handle the recycling - all you gotta do is leave the tree on your curb. Check with whatever company handles your garbage disposal and recycling.
  • National Christmas Tree Association - enter your zip to find a nearby recycling program.

Cocktail Fact

The average Christmas tree takes about seven years to grow to harvesting size.

Bang For The Bite

If 10,000 Biters recycle their trees rather than send 'em to the dump, we'll keep the weight of 1,306 adult male reindeer out of landfills.

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