Real or artificial: the great Christmas tree debate

BY SARAH JANE SCOTT

AS the yuletide season approaches, households face a festive dilemma: real or artificial Christmas tree? Each option has passionate supporters, with the choice often coming down to tradition, environmental impact, convenience, and cost. While some say nothing can replace the scent and feel of a real tree, others argue for the longevity and ease of artificial options.

Matthew Wheeler, owner of Noosa Christmas Trees, procures real Christmas trees for Noosa

Shire locals, and for him, the benefits go far beyond the festive atmosphere. Each year, his business donates a portion of proceeds to Inclusive Kids. "Christmas is all about altruism, especially in wealthy areas like Noosa," he said. "People are often looking for ways to give back, and buying a real tree that supports local farmers and charities is a meaningful way to do it."

A major consideration in the real vs. artificial tree debate is environmental impact. Sellers of real trees argue they’re more eco-friendly as part of a renewable cycle. Jeremy Monaghan of The Tree Elves, one of Australia’s largest Christmas tree sellers, highlighted their farm’s sustainability practices. "We’re doing our part to reduce the carbon footprint. For every tree we cut down, we plant approximately 1.5 trees, ensuring the land remains green and continues to sequester carbon," he said.

Matthew emphasised that real trees generally have a lower carbon footprint than artificial ones, given the energyintensive processes involved in manufacturing and shipping fake