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What's the carbon footprint of a Christmas tree?

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By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Le Monde or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The carbon footprint of Christmas trees, whether natural or artificial, is minor compared to the environmental impact of other holiday activities, such as gift shopping and travel
However, studies show that natural trees are more eco-friendly than plastic ones, especially if the artificial tree is used for fewer than 20 years

🔭 The context: Christmas trees sold commercially are grown specifically for this purpose, limiting their carbon storage capacity
Organizations like France’s ADEME note that these trees contribute just 1% to the overall carbon emissions associated with holiday festivities
Transporting goods and energy-intensive activities during the holidays remain far greater contributors

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: While tree choices matter, the broader carbon footprint of holiday behaviors—like mass consumption and long-distance travel—has a more significant climate impact
Understanding these dynamics can help individuals make more sustainable choices during the festive season

⏭️ What's next: Experts encourage reducing emissions by focusing on sustainable gift-giving, local purchases, and low-carbon travel options rather than fixating solely on tree selection
Recycling or composting natural trees after use further minimizes their environmental impact

💬 One quote: “The carbon impact of Christmas trees is difficult to quantify precisely, but it's minuscule compared to the overall carbon footprint of our end-of-year festivities.” – Nabil Wakim, journalist, Le Monde

📈 One stat: Natural Christmas trees have a lower carbon footprint than plastic ones if the latter is used for less than 20 years

Click for more news covering the latest on carbon and sustainable living 

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