Christmas Tree Recycling

Pick It Up wishes you a very Happy New Year! As we head into 2023 and start our resolutions, families across the globe will start to take down their holiday decorations. If you own a real Christmas tree, this blog is for you.

Approximately 20 to 30 million Christmas trees are sold in the United States per year, and of these a minuscule fraction are recycled properly. Not knowing proper procedures, people take their trees to trash dumps, put them in their trash bins, or even burn them. Below, I have a list of alternative approaches that are better for the planet:

• Cut up your tree into parts that will fit into your yard waste bin

• Bring your tree to your local drop-off recycling center

• Find a drop-off Christmas tree site near you (San Diego residents can find some at WastefreeSD.org)

• Check with your local Department of Public Works to find a tree recycling or mulching program

County News Center agrees and explains that “Properly recycled trees and wreaths can be turned into mulch that will improve soil health and help soil retain moisture at our parks, farms, home gardens and landscapes. Recycling them also keeps them from going into the trash where they can unnecessarily fill up landfills and generate unwanted climate-changing greenhouse gases as they decompose.”

Start 2023 with this simple, conscious, and beneficial decision to recycle your Christmas tree.

Photo By Any Lane