How dangerous are artificial Christmas trees?

How dangerous are artificial Christmas trees?

Toxic Chemicals in Artificial Christmas Trees They have been linked to asthma, neurodevelopment issues, cancers, obesity and type II diabetes, reproductive harm, and male fertility issues (1). In fact, phthalates are so harmful to health that many are banned from children's products.

What is worse for the environment real or fake Christmas tree?

But that isn't the case, according to The Carbon Trust, who says that a real Christmas tree has a “significantly lower” carbon footprint than an artificial tree, particularly if it is disposed of in a sensible manner.

Why are fake trees safer?

We verified fake trees are the overall safer option. Webb said that's because most artificial trees these days are flame resistant. ... The National Fire Association says Christmas tree fires often start from electrical problems like overloading electric sockets with lights and trees being too close to heat sources.

Are artificial Christmas trees better than real ones?

According to a life cycle assessment of the comparative environmental impacts of both real and fake Christmas trees, the WAP Sustainability Consulting company concluded that "one real Christmas tree generates fewer environmental impacts than one artificial tree." However, a fake Christmas tree can have a smaller ...

Why are fake Christmas trees bad?

Most artificial trees are manufactured in China and made from two items: PVC, a petroleum-based plastic, and lead, used to stabilize PVC. The lead in the “greens” breaks down into lead dust, which is released into the air, poisoning everyone, but especially children younger than six.

Do fake Christmas trees catch fire?

Are fake Christmas trees safer than real Christmas trees? ... But that doesn't mean artificial trees can't catch fire. If you have a fake tree, you still need to be careful not to place it too near a heat source and to use appropriate lighting, according to all the manufacturer's instructions.

Is buying a real Christmas tree environmentally friendly?

The trees provide many benefits to the environment as they grow, cleaning the air and providing watersheds and habitats for wildlife. They grow best on rolling hills that are often unsuitable for other crops and, of course, they are biodegradable.

Is it more environmentally friendly to have a real Christmas tree?

Although the carbon footprint of a real tree depends on the method of its disposal, it is invariably lower than that of an artificial tree. ... If you want to be environmentally friendly this Christmas, your best option would be to buy a potted tree which can be replanted and re-used year after year.

Why are artificial Christmas trees bad?

Most artificial trees are manufactured in China and made from two items: PVC, a petroleum-based plastic, and lead, used to stabilize PVC. The lead in the “greens” breaks down into lead dust, which is released into the air, poisoning everyone, but especially children younger than six.

Why are fake Christmas trees better?

Artificial Christmas trees are made from fire retardant materials, making them a much safer option for your home. ... Artificial trees hold their shape so you can rest easy that your favorite ornaments won't easily fall off branches and break.

Which is better, a real Christmas tree or an artificial Christmas tree?

Most artificial Christmas trees are made with fire-resistant materials, potentially making them safer to string lights on and less to worry about. This may be top of mind if you've dealt with any sort of fire scare in holidays past or simply don't want to risk it.

How long are artificial Christmas trees good for the environment?

The report concluded that the environmental ‘break-even’ point between a real Christmas tree and an artificial tree was 4.

How are fake Christmas trees bad for the environment?

When it comes to disposing of your artificial tree, there are more negative impacts – even if you have kept it 10 years or more. Most fake trees are made of PVC – a plastic which is notoriously difficult if not impossible to get recycled because it requires specialist equipment.

Can you order an artificial Christmas tree from Mother Nature?

You can't exactly request the specific tree of your dreams from Mother Nature (which, to many, is part of the charm), but ordering an artificial tree lets you customize to taste.