If you choose to put up a real tree for Christmas, finding a sustainable way to dispose of it after the holidays is essential. Luckily there are several ways to do this. Continue reading for our recommendations!

Make woodchips

Putting your old Christmas tree through a woodchipper is a very efficient method of disposal. It’s fast, and you can use the woodchips as mulch in your garden.

Find a Christmas tree drop off

In many cities there are fundraisers or events where you can drop off your Christmas tree by donation and in exchange, they will dispose of your tree for you.

Use the wood for crafts

If you’re a crafty person who enjoys a good diy, there are so many things you can do with the wood from the trunk. Saw it thinly to make coasters, or to pain as ornaments for next year. Check out Pinterest for some awesome ideas. You can also make bird feeders by carving out a hole in a thick part of the trunk.

Recycle it

Check if your city has arranged a special Christmas tree pickup after the holidays. Many cities do this to ensure the trees get properly recycled. If your city does not have a pickup, find your local recycling disposal facility and take your tree there.

Choose a potted Christmas tree

You’re probably reading this after Christmas is over, but we thought we’d mention this one for next year! Opt for a potted Christmas tree next year that’s living. You can move it after the holidays are over and reuse it year after year, eliminating the need to figure out what to do with it come January.