Some environmentalists object to cutting Christmas
trees, but many tree farms claim that farm-grown trees
are the environmental choice because during a tree's
growth period it provides many ecological benefits.
Trees control erosion, provide wildlife habitat,
produce oxygen, and remove carbon dioxide and other
pollutants. True, these benefits can be extended
beyond the seven-to-fifteen years it takes to grow a
Christmas tree, but perhaps the trees wouldn't be
planted in the first place if it weren't for the
Christmas tree industry. In addition, most Christmas
tree farmers plant two new trees for each tree cut
down.
Fake trees and wreaths are made from
nonrenewable petroleum, may be manufactured with child
labor in third-world countries, and can't be recycled.
If you are concerned, buy a live tree and plant it
after it has re-adjusted to the outdoor climate. Keep
in mind though, that live trees may suffer from
temporarily living indoors and may end up dying
anyway.
If you're not sure, buy a live tree, enjoy its fresh
fragrance and natural appearance, and make a donation
to the National Arbor Day Foundation to appease your
conscience.
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