12/16/08 Christmas Tree Trouble

The last few years have brought about yet another holiday stress factor; whether or not to have a fake Christmas tree or a live one. Surprisingly, the newly formed American Christmas Tree Association is pushing in favor of artificial trees; stating that the carbon footprint is smaller with fake than with live. Unsurprisingly this has brought about a rather livid debate between the live and artificial Christmas tree industries. The fact that the ACTC will not release publicly the study this statement is based upon or their membership list raises strong questions over the groups credibility. Good old common sense would have one questioning the viability of having fake trees over live trees. Live trees absorb carbon while they are growing and can be recycled as mulch or used whole to stabilize wetlands. Even better would be to choose a live potted tree that you can plant outside after the holidays. The fun and enjoyment of a family outing to a Christmas tree farm is an opportunity for a cherished memory that will last a lifetime.