Tis the season, which also means that you might just be putting up a Christmas tree.
Many allergic folks think that the automatic best choice is an artificial tree. However, even artificial trees come with certain hazards – depending on what you are allergic to.
If you are allergic to terpene – a substance found in the oil or sap of most types of evergreen trees – then an artificial tree is a great option. Most artificial trees are durable, lasting a number of years. (The one in our house is now over a decade old and going strong.) In most cases, artificial trees are cheaper than a cut tree because you can use them repeatedly.
Trees with polyethylene (PE) needles will cost you more than a tree made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) needles. There are pluses and minuses to both materials. PE is the main ingredient in plastic bags. Polyethylene melts at above 115 degrees Celsius so be sure that you avoid lighting your tree with old-fashioned lights: go for LED lights instead.
On the other hand, PVC plastic is linked to a host of potentially damaging consequences, due to the fact that PVC plastic leaches both dioxins and phthalates. Recent research has linked PVC exposure to both asthma and wheezing for both children and adults. This plastic has also been linked to learning disabilities, obesity, cancer and reproductive problems including declining male sperm counts. So, of the two types of artificial trees, you should look for a PE tree – and use LED lights.
Unfortunately, artificial trees have an exceptionally large carbon footprint. They are usually made from petroleum products (like PE) and are shipped from countries like China where they are manufactured. If you opt for a PVC tree, it is not recyclable and the PVC is not biodegradable. In addition, lead can be used as a PVC stabilizer, making the tree doubly toxic.
As a result, your best choice could be an environmentally responsible cut Christmas tree – as long as you aren’t allergic to terpene. It has the lowest carbon footprint, is completely recyclable and biodegradable, can be locally grown and is often grown in areas where other crops are not.
Don’t want plastic and can’t handle real? You can still find aluminum Christmas trees.
Sources: Macon.com; Megnut.com; Center for Health, Environment & Justice
