Think back to your childhood. Was there always a Christmas tree in the living room at Christmas time? For many people, it's simply part of Christmas. But where does this custom actually come from, and why do we cut down millions of trees every year, only to dispose of them a few weeks later? In this blog, we delve into the history of the Christmas tree, look beyond our own horizons to other countries, and show you what alternatives there are.
Where does the tradition of the Christmas tree come from?
The idea of bringing an evergreen tree into the house during the dark season dates back to pre-Christian times. Even in the Middle Ages, green branches were considered a symbol of life, hope, and fertility. The modern Christmas tree, as we know and decorate it today, became popular in Germany in the 16th century. From there, it spread throughout Europe and later around the world. Today, the tree is an integral part of festive decorations for many people.
Nordmann firs are particularly popular because their soft, dark green needles hardly prick and stay fresh for a long time. However, blue spruces and red firs are also alternatives. The Nordmann fir is auIt is also used as a model for most artificial Christmas trees. These are usually made of PVC or PE (polyethylene) and, unlike real fir trees, can be used again and again, from generation to generation.
Different countries, different customs: Christmas tree traditions compared
While real fir trees are particularly popular in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, other countries rely on completely different symbols: In Japan and China, Christmas is not celebrated religiously, but Christmas trees (mostly artificial) are omnipresent in cities. In Australia, the tree is often replaced by a decorated shrub, which is better suited to the summer temperatures. And in Ukraine, the tree is traditionally decorated with spider webs – as a sign of good luck in the new year.
By the way: The disposal of Christmas trees is also handled differently around the world. In New York City, for example, thousands of trees are collected at the beginning of January and turned into mulch, which is then distributed in parks and green spaces. And in France, there are special collection points where the trees are burned or composted to generate energy.
The environmental impact of real Christmas trees
Real Christmas trees are beautiful to look at, but in Switzerland alone, over 1.3 million trees are cut down every year. Most of them come from monocultures, are treated with artificial fertilizers and pesticides, and are disposed of after just a few weeks. Transporting the trees also leaves its mark: many travel long distances before ending up in people's living rooms. The ecological Fufootprint is correspondingly high—and that for something that only brings short-lived pleasure.
Alternatively, one may opt for the artificial version. However, these are not automatically considered environmentally friendly either. They are usually made of plastic (PVC or PE), including high CO₂ emissions.carbon footprint for production and transport. For an artificial tree to be more environmentally friendly than a real one, it must be used for at least 10 to 20 years. However, changing trends mean that this is often not the case in practice. And finallyFinally, it is often difficult to recycle.
What alternatives remain?
The most sustainable option is to use regional, untreated trees from sustainable cultivation. Or you can make your own sustainable and creative alternative. With our "Save the XMas Tree" event, we show you a way to create Christmas spirit – without cutting down any trees. In our workshop with Robin, you can build your own wooden Christmas tree stand and end up with a durable piece that you can reuse every year.
The idea is simple: you put fresh branches in the stand, which you can collect on your next walk in the woods, get from a garden center, or pick up from us on site. This creates your very own Christmas tree, which you can decorate however you like. And if you prefer to simply enjoyIf you want to take it with you: There are also ready-made models that you can take with you right away—including hotßem Punch by the fire and a largeA big helping of Christmas spirit.
You can find all the information about the event on our event page. Registration is not necessary—you can just drop by spontaneously.
A Christmas tree with a message
With the "Save the Christmas Tree" workshop we want to not only offer an alternative, but also raise awareness. Because sustainable decisions often start with small things—such as the question of whether you really need a new tree every year. By building your own tree stand, you are not only giving yourself something lasting, but also giving something back to the environment. And who knowsß: Maybe this very tree will one day become part of your very own Christmas tradition – Year after year, branch by branch.
