5 Tips for Choosing a Greener Christmas Tree

Choosing a ecologically responsible Christmas tree can be a challenge.  There are a lot of myths and misinformation out there, and some of it continues to be spread by icons like Martha Stewart.  

The least green option for a Christmas tree is an artificial one.  They are made of plastic, can't be recycled, offgas hormone disrupting phtalates, and shed lead dust.  However, there are a few other options that are more ecologically friendly:

1. Use a natural tree - Most of these trees come from tree farms.  They are not a perfect ecological choice as they are often shipped long distances and sprayed with chemicals.  However, they at least aren't harvested every year (or even every other year), clean the air while they are growing and provide habitat for birds and small animals.  They can also be recycled.  You can minimize the ecological impact by buying from a local tree farm and/or buying an organic or no spray tree.
2. Use a potted tree - A live tree can live outside 11 months of the year then be brought inside and decorated during December.  This way you get the beauty and smell of a live tree but can control how it's grown.  Also, since it's live it will be less likely of drying out and becoming a fire hazard. If chosing this option talk to your local nursery about the best way.  You'll want to make sure you can lift the heavy pot inside and get one that will stay a reasonable size year after year.
3. Cut one down from the forest - Just make sure you do it legally!  My friend lives in a forest and cuts hers down from her back yard every year.  Obviously this isn't an option for most of us.  But, if you live near a national forest you can see if the Forest Service is selling permits to cut.  Here in the Pike National Forest you can cut down your own Christmas tree after buying a permit for $10.  There are restrictions on the size, location, etc but it's a great option.  It's probably your most affordable way to get a tree.  And, you create a family memory as you all hike through the forest (sometimes in the snow) searching for the right tree.  With this option you won't get a perfectly sculpted tree and might have uneven branches or holes.  But that's part of the charm.  It makes it easy to display your ornaments :)
4. If you MUST buy an artificial tree (ie: some fire codes require it for commericial buildings) at least try to by one 2nd hand.  It doesn't eliminate the disposal issue, but at least you aren't buying a new one.  Be aware that an older tree may offgas or shed more as the plastic starts to break down so always keep your artificial trees away from direct sunlight.
5. Consider vintage feather trees - These can be hard to find and expensive, but they are beautiful and often have less plastic.  When buying be sure to read the descriptions as some are cheap reproductions using the same plastic as typical artificial trees.  

Do you have other ideas for a greener Christmas Tree? Post them in the comments below.