Try a 'sustainabilitree' this holiday

The Billings Gazette highlighted some tips offered by a University of Cincinnati professor for ways to celebrate the holidays in a more sustainable way.

UC School of Environment and Sustainability Assistant Professor-Educator Teri Jacobs said people can make greener choices to benefit the environment.

“I wouldn’t suggest buying a new artificial tree,” said University of Cincinnati assistant professor Teri Jacobs. “I’m 100% against plastic. But research shows that an artificial tree that is kept for more than five years is more sustainable than cutting down a real tree each year.”

For people who prefer to cut down their own tree, the Gazette recommends picking one in a stand of trees rather than one sitting alone. Many recycling centers will turn Christmas trees into mulch. Alternately, some wildlife agencies place old trees in ponds to provide nurseries for fish like yellow perch.

While a tree is traditional, Jacobs said there are other ways to get into the holiday spirit.

“You can refuse to buy any Christmas tree and just create a festive home with crafts. This reduces consumption, pollution and waste,” she said.

Read the Billings Gazette story.