Some people value natural fir for the smell it gives off. Others prefer artificial because it does not shed needles. In 2022, the French Natural Christmas Tree Association and VALHOR (the French inter-speciality for horticulture, floriculture and landscape) conducted a survey to identify key market trends. Verdict: “Among French people who have bought a tree, 89% prefer a natural tree, while 11% prefer an artificial tree,” the study emphasizes. Although the natural tree is more common, but in the era of general awareness about the environment, the question arises: which is more ecological? It makes no sense to extend the pause any longer, it is really natural fir, according to a study published by the company Ellipsos from 2009.
The artificial tree is highlighted by its carbon footprint
To identify the most polluting spruce, the Quebec company Ellipsos carefully compared the life cycle of a natural spruce transported 150 km with an artificial product stored for 6 years from China. The result on the CO balance2: issued annually, the former being 3.1 kg against the latter’s 8.1 kg. For good reason, what grows on Earth is easily recyclable and sequesters CO2: during its growth. Artificial trees, in turn, are made up of materials from very polluting production methods, between the dyes used, the waste they generate, and the transportation required. Not to mention their composition, where we detect substances from petroleum. So if an artificial tree sits in your living room, it will take 20 years before its carbon footprint becomes positive.
Collective will
Good news for the planet. According to the KANTAR consumer report, 67% of French respondents say they are willing to pay more for a tree of French origin. This collective goodwill also leads to the end of the tree’s life. Depending on local resources, 83% of shoppers in France recycle their holiday decor, 5% replant it and 2% return it to the place of purchase, according to VALHOR. Now, if we know that the natural tree is less polluting, another question arises: are we saying goodbye to this tradition?
Source: Le Figaro
