Thinking about buying a christmas tree but concerned about its environmental impact? Here's some options to consider. Can you decorate a large houseplant instead? If you do buy a real one - and 6 million of us do - get one with roots that can be planted outside or kept in a pot for next year. Otherwise, check with your local council that they will recycle it afterwards. To make sure it's UK grown, buy from a retailer registered with the British Tree Growers Association - see
www.bctga.co.uk If you want a tree that is certified organic or sustainably grown, visit
www.soilassociation.org.uk/christmas Finally, artificial trees - if you already have one, get the most out of it, but it's best to avoid buying a new one. Their production is resource and energy intensive, and they're difficult to recycle afterwards.
