Once incinerated, all lead-bearing PVC-based fake options emit toxic carcinogenic dioxins

Dec 23, 2011 09:58 GMT  ·  By
A PVC Christmas tree decorated using fairy lights and baubles; definitely less green than a real one
   A PVC Christmas tree decorated using fairy lights and baubles; definitely less green than a real one

As winter holidays are approaching, NRDC officials make a shocking statement, meant to keep us far away from artificial trees, commercialized on a large scale especially during this time of year.

The organization reveals that these toxic replacements are far from being eco-conscious, since they are often made of lead-bearing PVC.

Putting them on fire is definitely not a good idea, since the incineration of such fake trees generates carcinogenic dioxins, putting our lungs at great risks.

Even though some of the options presented by allegedly green companies look amazing, these trees are manufactured from sustainable materials and can be stored and kept in the house for years, without requiring further investments, NRDC highlights that “the real thing” counts as a much greener option in most of the cases.

Even though a real tree, cut or simply put in a pot, coming from sustainable farms is people’s favorite choice, the organization also reveals the dangers hidden in their mass production.

It seems that most trees are fed with dangerous neurotoxic pesticide di-syston 15-G that can remain on trees for days, even after we take them home.

NRDC recommends us to always ask for details regarding the source and the pesticide usage, to make sure that our annual investment will boost the profit margins of an eco-friendly grower.

NRDC has more bad news: tinsel or fake snow shouldn't be used to decorate real Christmas trees because they are "hazardous to wildlife."

To help us make eco-conscious choices, GreenPromise.com provides a list of all the sustainable, organic Christmas-tree farms located all across the country. Local Harvest also lands a hand. On its website, we just have to enter the zip code to find the nearest tree supplier. To make sure that our Christmas spirit won't affect our pets in any way, Greenpaws.org offers a few tricks and tips. When it comes to decorations, earth-friendly LED systems are the best option on the market.

The most important advice is that we shouldn't let our pet drink water from the tree stand, because it might contain harmful pesticides.

When it comes to watering the tree, two pints are more than enough. Temperature is an important factor; if it's higher than 65 degrees F (18.3 Celsius), it could put the tree at risk.