Springfield Environmental Services wants residents to remember: When the holiday season is over, there may still be life left in your Christmas tree.
The live versus artificial question has been debated for decades, but no matter which your family chooses, experts say there are ways to make sustainable choices when it comes time to dispose of your tree.
“The research goes back and forth on the environmental impacts of both options,” explains Sustainability and Market Development Coordinator Ashley Krug. “Our general advice is that if you choose to have a live tree, buy it locally and recycle it when you’re done. If you choose an artificial tree, plan to reuse it for as many years as you can, then donate or recycle it.”
There are many options available in Springfield that allow you to recycle or repurpose your tree while also giving back to the local community.
RECYCLING OPTIONS FOR LIVE CHRISTMAS TREES
Springfield residents are reminded that live Christmas trees are not accepted at Missouri landfills; however, several options are available for recycling this year’s trees. Used trees can be repurposed to support new life as mulch for your spring garden and even as habitat for area fish and wildlife. Live trees can be disposed at the following locations:
The City of Springfield Yardwaste Recycling Center (3790 S. Farm Road 119, Brookline) will accept residential Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands and other live decorations for no charge between Dec. 26, 2018, and Jan. 31, 2019. All other times of the year, current volume-based fees will apply. Trees will be ground into wood chip mulch, available for purchase at the YRC and Lone Pine recycling centers. Please remember to remove tree stands, decorations, wiring and twine. No flocked trees are accepted. Call the City’s Recycling Hotline at 864-1904 for more information.
Bass Pro Shops will accept live trees at their outlet store front parking lot (2011 S. Campbell Avenue) between noon and 6 p.m., daily, Dec. 26 - 30. A $2 per tree donation is requested, benefiting Ozark Trails Council Boy Scouts projects. Trees will be used to provide wildlife habitat for rabbits, quail and songbirds. For more information, contact Katie Mitchell at 873-5618.
Hansen’s Greenwaste (3341 S. Farm Road 107, Brookline) will accept residential Christmas trees for no fee Dec. 26, 2018, through Jan. 31, 2019. Please remove all tree stands and decorations. No flocked trees accepted. Call 877-8733 for more information.
Wickman’s Gardens (1345 S. Fort Avenue) will accept live Christmas trees beginning Dec. 26 for a $5 donation. Proceeds will be donated to Great Circle. Trees will be ground into wood chip mulch available for free if you bring your own container. Please remove all tree stands, decorations and plastic bags. No flocked trees accepted. For more information, call 862-3707.
RECYCLING OPTIONS FOR ARTIFICIAL CHRISTMAS TREES
Artificial trees and holiday décor in usable condition are accepted for free at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore (2410 S. Scenic Ave.) and many local thrift stores. This is a great way to give your tree a second chance and bring holiday cheer to a new family. Call ahead to confirm need prior to arriving.
As a pilot program this year, the Computer Recycling Center (528 N. Prince Lane) is accepting artificial trees now through Jan. 31 for $10 per tree.
“Trees in poor condition may also be disposed at the Springfield Sanitary Landfill. But we really urge folks to think of the trash as a last resort for all items,” Krug adds. “By donating and recycling, we save valuable landfill space for many Christmases to come.”
Green Holiday SGF tips
Environmental Services is currently helping residents have a happy and green holiday with a new education initiative centered around sustainable holiday practices. “Green Holiday SGF” kicked off Dec. 1 with a series of daily social media posts featuring tips to help residents consider recycling, repurposing and creating less waste throughout the holiday season.
To view daily tips, follow @SGFEnvironmentalServices on facebook or Instagram, or @SGFEnvironServi on Twitter. All resources can be found on the City’s website at http://www.springfieldmo.gov/estips. For questions about recycling opportunities in Springfield, call the Recycling Hotline at 864-1904.
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