Sounds of jingle bells and cheery holiday music, the warmth of cozy sweaters in frosty weather and smells of pine, cinnamon and sugar all characterize the Christmas season. People all around the world become a little friendlier, a little happier, and more nostalgic during the Christmas season because the sounds and smells remind them of joyful childhood memories. For many who celebrate the holiday, their favorite reminder is the classic Christmas tree, either straight from the woods or bought from the local Christmas tree farm, all lofty and green with the cool scent of pine. Buying a real Christmas tree, grown from the ground, is the only way to truly immerse oneself in the Christmas spirit. Real Christmas trees feel good to have in the house, and of course they smell divine, but they are also much more beneficial for the environment. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, most farmed Christmas trees grow for at least eight years before they are cut and sold. All of these trees contribute to oxygen production and soaking up carbon emissions from the atmosphere, which combats climate change. Meanwhile, artificial trees need to be manufactured and shipped overseas, worsening the carbon problem. The decomposition process of Christmas trees is a whole other issue. Natural trees are biodegradable, as they are often recycled to be used for mulch and other agricultural purposes. Fake trees are made of plastic. When a family is ready to free up some storage space in their closet, the plastic tree just ends up in a landfill. The annual tradition of buying a real Christmas tree also greatly supports the economy. The Christmas tree market may seem small, since they are only purchased once a year, but the huge number of customers and consistent yearly profits accumulate to boost the farmers’ business and the overall economy. On a personal level, real Christmas trees are the only way to make “real” Christmas memories. The fun of decorating the tree with family, buying new ornaments on special occasions, choosing which color of lights suits the mood that year, and carefully placing presents on the tree skirt under the branches – all of these are irreplaceable memories, made authentic solely with a real Christmas tree. Whether it’s a luscious balsam fir, an elegant white pine, or a noble spruce, the Christmas tree brings the family together. After all, cherishing sweet memories with loved ones is the joy of life and what gets us through the remaining cold months of winter.
