The holidays tend to bring out the thoughtful side in people — but one area where Christmas revellers are struggling to make a mindful decision is what type of tree to buy. Should they go for a reusable artificial tree or a downed natural tree? 

Is it more environmentally friendly to have an artificial tree or to cut a real one down? The debate of a real vs. artificial Christmas tree is much discussed year after year in the industry. 

What shall we do as a consumer? The answer from the expert says: unless you plan on using the same artificial tree for at least 10 years, a natural tree is the more eco-friendly option. The carbon footprint of commercial Christmas tree farming, harvesting, distribution and disposal is astronomical. 

We have compiled here, some of the real ‘green’ Christmas Trees that are made of upcycled, recycled, reuse eco materials from around the world.  

Read out more about The Great Christmas Tree Debate by The Recycling Council of B.C. at http://www.rcbc.ca/education/holiday-info/tree-debate