According to The British Christmas Tree Growers Association (also known as the BCTGA), it is estimated that around 7.5 million people purchase a Christmas tree every year in the UK. But which is better, real or fake?

What actually is the difference between them?

The majority of false trees are manufactured in china, this comes with the added environmental impact of being shipped overseas and also using materials such as plastic and metal. Though, its not just the producing of the trees that amplifies their carbon footprint.

Artificial trees cannot be recycled, this means that when they are thrown away they will be put into landfill, inevitably polluting our environment. The carbon trust states that “a two metre artificial tree has a carbon footprint of around 40 kg, more than ten times that of a real tree.”. This tells us that in order to rescind its carbon footprint, you would need to reuse your tree at least 10 times.

When you compare this estimate with that of a real tree, the difference is astounding.

Natural Christmas trees need around 10 years to grow to 6 feet and during those years, they provide a safe habitat for wildlife and also absorb carbon from the atmosphere.

However, if at the end of the year your natural tree is not burned, it will release methane and decompose which will cause a larger impact onto the surroundings.

What can you do to make sure your tree is sustainable this Christmas?

If you are purchasing a real tree, one thing you don't need to worry about is deforestation: the majority of Christmas trees are grown horticulturally and not taken from forests. But there are still things you can do to help the environment this winter.

If possible, you should purchase your tree from an organic retailer. This is due to the fact that independent providers are more likely to source their trees from growers who avoid pesticides.

Its worth looking for a tree that is FSC certified (forest stewardship council), which means it has been grown in a responsibly managed way with minimal pesticides.

Finally, it goes without saying, the more locally sourced your tree is, the better!

Buying your tree locally decreases the miles travelled, reducing carbon emission. It also supports the local economy.

Don't shy away from asking your tree supplier the environmental factors of the tree you would like to purchase, try to be more sustainable this Christmas!