As the holiday season approaches, many people face the dilemma of choosing between a real or artificial Christmas tree. For those who are concerned about the environment, the decision becomes even more critical. Green Team in Denmark provides a sustainable model for choosing the best Christmas tree for the planet.
Green Team’s Practices: Sustainability in Christmas Tree Production
Green Team approaches Christmas tree farming with their philosophy “as little as possible,” growing their trees with minimal inputs while maintaining its high quality. They utilize a specialized process selecting a light and sandy type of soil that has little weed propensity. They use biofuels and biooils in their chainsaws, reducing their carbon footprint. They are also meticulous in reducing their use of fertilizer and experimenting with natural fertilizers.
They dedicate themselves to reducing their carbon output by creating insect banks around their fields. They sow wildflower strips to sustain bees and other insects, which are necessary for pollination. The fields are an oasis for most wildlife, and the farms do not harm the environment. They grow all their trees on regular farmland, converting monoculture fields into a living place for many animals.
Another area where Green Team is making a significant impact is in the use of renewable resources. They are working toward reducing their use of plastics and are down 33% in their pot tree production. They are working with their net supplier to develop nets made from biodegradable cornstarch or other renewable materials. They are also taking steps to replace the use of peat with more sustainable alternatives, such as soil from recycling centers and coco peat.
Choosing the Best Christmas Tree Based on Sustainability Principles
When it comes to deciding whether to use a real or artificial tree, real trees are predominantly grown on tree farms, making them a renewable resource. Green Team’s approach in tree farming helps absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which contributes to global recycling efforts. After the holiday season, real Christmas trees can be recycled and turned into mulch, which can be used to improve soil quality or prevent soil erosion. Many cities offer free tree recycling programs, which help increase the amount of green waste that can be diverted from landfills.
However, the transportation of real trees from the farm to the retail location results in greenhouse gas emissions. The use of pesticides and fertilizers on tree farms can have negative effects on the environment. Traditional trees may be purchased from farms located around the world, or even in areas where forest protection may not be sufficient.
When it comes to artificial trees, they are made from non-renewable resources and plastics. However, they present an opportunity to reduce waste and consumption since they can be used year after year. Their production and disposal, however, have negative environmental consequences, both in terms of carbon footprint and life cycle pollution.
Green Team’s Sustainable Model for Christmas Tree Production
By considering Green Team’s philosophy and dedication to sustainability, we can choose the best Christmas tree for the planet, one that provides an eco-friendly, diversified approach to tree farming while reducing waste and carbon footprint. Choose a tree that fits your values and priorities, and once the holidays are over, dispose of your trees, whether real or artificial, in the most environmentally friendly away possible. By doing so, you’ll be contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for all.
