How-To Guide to Treecycling

Treecycling is the simple act of recycling your Christmas tree, rather than throwing it away, at the end of the season. By doing so, you extend your Christmas tree’s usability by allowing it to be turned into something else.

Recycled trees are most commonly used for mulch, erosion protection, habitat creation and shoreline stabilization. However, the possibilities don’t end there. Every year communities across the country are finding new ways to use treecycling for private projects, as well.

READ: What Happens to the Rockefeller Tree After Christmas?

According the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, about 33 million trees are sold in the U.S. every year. Compared to artificial trees, real Christmas trees are a renewable resource, with 98 percent of them being grown and harvested each year as a crop would be. They are carbon neutral and create organic, biodegradable waste, making them the greener choice for Christmas greenery. However, it is still important to keep them out of landfills where they biodegrade slowly due to low oxygen levels.

READ: Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees 

More and more communities are offering seasonal treecycling programs, and it has never been easier to participate. Earth911’s Treecycle Program has developed the nation’s largest, most comprehensive treecycling directory and has compiled over 4,000 treecycling resources. Recycling options range from curbside pickup to consumer drop-off and DYI projects.

In addition to the directory, the Treecycle Program has partnered with major retailers such as Walmart and Home Depot as well as many tree farms that support sustainable practices that make their trees environmentally friendly.

READ: A full list of Official Treecycle Partners 

Shoppers can look for trees with the Treecycle logo to help guide them. With so many tools at your fingertips, treecycling will be easier than ever and a great way to kick off the New Year!