January Feature
(continued from home page)
Make It a Green Christmas:
Recycle Your Christmas Tree
by Matthew Kennedy
Research Editor, Conscious Decisions
Recycling options consist of either chipping or using the whole tree. Most community programs rely on chipping, as this method tends to be easy, cost-efficient and the chips can be used in a variety of ways. For example, raw chips can be used as landscaping and path cover for parks, school campuses and private residences, weed control, cover for playground areas, daily landfill cover and composting into mulch. By using the whole tree, communities can help control erosion, help restore habitats in dune and coastal areas, wetlands, wildlife habitats and fishing spots.
Many communities throughout the country now offer free curbside pickup of their used real Christmas trees for recycling. Prior to leaving the trees on the curb, all lights and decorations should be removed from the tree. Additionally, many towns have recycling centers that accept real Christmas trees after the holidays. It is important to know if there are any important instructions for the pickup or drop-off of Christmas trees, so before doing so, contact your local Sanitation Department.
