Royal Tannenbaums: How to Pick the Greenest Christmas Trees

For many families, the centerpiece of Christmas celebrations is the luminous, awe-inspiring tree set up with care in the living room. But with all the options now available, how do you know which Christmas tree is the greenest choice for the environment?

Should you go for a real, fresh tree, as nearly 29 million households did in 2006, according to the National Christmas Tree Association? Most Christmas trees are now raised on established farms, meaning deforestation isn't an issue, but they must be shipped, often from long distances. They do require pesticides and fueled vehicles to maintain, and may end up taking up space in landfills.

Most artificial Christmas trees are made in China, typically from oil-derived, pollution-releasing polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A number have been found to contain lead. Once finally disposed of, artificial trees will last for centuries in landfills. These days, roughly 70 percent of Americans choose artificial.

Live, Plantable or Bulb Trees

Perhaps the greenest option for Christmas is a 'living,' plantable or 'bulb' tree. This adorable one is from Smith & Hawken. Inside, the tree can wear ornaments and garland, and after Christmas it can be transplanted outdoors. You'll be adding to the planet's lungs and fighting global warming, as well as providing wildlife habitat. If you live in an apartment, or don't have room in your yard for an evergreen, see if you can donate it to a local rest home or children's center.

Decorate an Outside Tree

It may seem a little strange at first, but the cheapest option by far is to simply decorate an outdoor tree for Christmas. You'll have more money in your pocket for gifts, not to mention rising energy bills and cost of living. True, unless you live in a warm climate, you aren't likely to want to open gifts in your yard. But you may be able to decorate one that's close enough to a window to set the mood. You'll certainly be saving on resources.

Make Your Own 'Tree'

Another free, ultra-green alternative is to fashion your own 'tree' from natural materials like driftwood, pine boughs, felled branches and the like. You won't be contributing to any new resource use and will be giving your own creativity a chance to flourish. With a little arranging and pruning, you'd be surprised how attractive you can make something, especially once you've hung the ornaments, lights and tinsel.

Local, Sustainable or Organic Trees

If you'd like a real Christmas tree without having to worry about a transplant, try to buy from a local sustainable or organic farm. By buying locally, you'll cut down on CO2 emissions. And supporting sustainable and organic farms will prevent environmental degradation. Local Harvest features a list of beautiful live Christmas tree providers across the country. If you like, you may even be able to cut your own! When you are finished with your tree, make sure it is converted to mulch or compost.

American-Made Artificial Trees

Advocates point out that a one-time purchase of an artificial tree can save gas otherwise used for annual trips to a tree farm, or even cross-country shipping. They are also convenient and require no pesticides. If you choose this option, try to find a tree made in the U.S., which greatly decreases the chances for contamination with lead or other toxins, preserves domestic manufacturing jobs and reduces shipping. Holiday Tree and Trim Co. makes theirs in New Jersey. If you must get rid of your artificial tree, check with local charities, shelters and churches to see if they can use it. Most recycling programs do not accept them.