Growing
and harvesting trees helps the environment
Did you ever think that by using a live
Christmas tree in your house that you were
actually helping the environment? Real trees
help the environment from the time they are
planted until after the holiday season when
they can be recycled.
While they are growing, Christmas trees
support life by absorbing carbon dioxide and
other gases while giving off fresh oxygen.
Every acre of Christmas trees planted gives
off enough oxygen to meet the needs of 18
people. Today in America there are enough
Christmas trees planted that 18 million
people a day are supplied with oxygen. Also,
the farms that grow Christmas trees
stabilize soil, protect water supplies, and
provide a refuge for wildlife while creating
a nice scenic view. Often, Christmas trees
are grown on soil that will not support any
other crops. And when one Christmas tree is
cut down, one or two are replanted in its
place.
Artificial trees are made from oil-based
products that use up our natural resources.
They are also not recyclable and will remain
in land-fills for centuries after disposal.
Real Christmas trees, on the other hand, are
recyclable. The branches and trunk are
biodegradable and can be made into mulch for
the garden. A Christmas tree placed in the
back yard will make a nice bird feeder and
the birds can also use the trees branches
for shelter during the winter winds. Large
quantities of trees make effective barriers
on beaches to prevent soil erosion. Sunk
into ponds, the trees will also make an
excellent refuge and feeding area for fish.
Information provided by:
North Carolina
Christmas Tree Association
Visitors are always
welcome with an appointment. If you have any questions or would like more
information, please contact us 828.293.5115,
email
us, or use our
online request form. |
