How to Recycle a Christmas Tree?

Where to Recycle Christmas Trees?

In British Columbia, Canada, there are several eco-friendly options for recycling your Christmas tree after the festive season. Here’s how you can recycle your tree:

Cut Up and Put In Green Bin

To recycle your Christmas tree, cut it into small pieces and place them in your green bin for regular pickup. Most municipalities allow you to dispose of Christmas trees on regular pick-up dates if the tree is chopped up and fits in the bin. Ensure each piece is less than 50 cm (18 in) in length and 10 cm (4 in) in diameter. The green bin should be loosely packed, with the lid completely closed. Yard waste bags, bundles, or other materials not fully contained inside the cart cannot be collected.

City Pickup

Many municipalities across BC offer curbside pickup for Christmas trees during specific periods in January. Check with your local city or municipal waste management website for specific dates and guidelines. Households with City Green Bin service are eligible for curbside Christmas tree and extra leaf collection on designated weekends in January. Place the tree in the same location where you set out your bins, ensuring it is visible from the lane or street. Lay the tree on its side and leave it loose, without any bags, string, or rope.

Drop Off Your Christmas Tree at Landfills, Transfer Stations, or City Drop-Off Centers

Most municipalities also allow residents to drop off their Christmas trees at city-run recycling stations free of charge. These designated drop-off centers, transfer stations, and landfills are equipped to handle tree recycling and ensure the trees are processed in an environmentally friendly manner. Before heading to a drop-off location, check with your local waste management authority for specific guidelines, operating hours, and any requirements or restrictions. Make sure to remove all decorations, lights, and tinsel from the tree. Utilizing these drop-off centers helps reduce landfill waste and supports municipal composting and mulching programs, contributing to a more sustainable holiday season.

VANCOUVER
Drop off your tree for free at the Vancouver South Transfer Station or Vancouver Landfill until January 31. For directions and operating hours visit our landfill or transfer station page.

ABBOTSFORD

WHISTLER

Local Community Christmas Tree Chipping Events

Every year after the holidays, local community groups host Christmas Tree Chipping events, allowing residents to dispose of their trees while supporting a good cause. These events are typically held at community centers, parks, or other central locations, making it convenient for residents to drop off their trees. By offering a donation, usually benefiting local charities, schools, or community projects, participants can have their Christmas trees chipped into mulch.

Contact RCBC – Recycling Council of BC

Didn’t find the answer you were looking for? For more information, contact the Recycling Council of BC who can answer questions through the Recyclepedia search, phone, text, chat, or email.

Visit Rcbc.ca

Environmental Benefits:

Recycling your Christmas tree helps reduce landfill waste, supports recycling initiatives, and can provide useful material for mulch and compost, contributing to soil health and plant growth in local communities. It’s best to consult with your local municipal or regional district’s waste management authority or visit their website to get the most accurate and detailed information about Christmas tree recycling options in your area of BC.

Tips for Recycling Christmas Trees:

Remove All Decorations: Take off all lights, ornaments, and tinsel. Ensure the tree is free of any ribbons, garlands, or hooks.

Prepare for Pick-Up or Drop-Off: Some communities offer curbside pick-up for Christmas trees. Check with your local waste management service for the schedule. If drop-off is required, find the nearest recycling center or designated drop-off location.

Avoid Artificial Enhancements: Do not try to recycle artificial trees. Trees sprayed with artificial snow, foam, or chemicals are not accepted and should be disposed of as regular trash.

Artificial trees or trees sprayed with artificial snow or foam are not accepted.

Consider Mulching or Composting:
If you have a garden, consider mulching the tree yourself. Branches can be cut down and used as mulch around plants. Some recycling programs will chip trees into mulch or compost. This is an eco-friendly option that returns nutrients to the soil.

Follow Local Guidelines:
Remember to follow local guidelines for recycling Christmas trees to ensure they are processed correctly and sustainably.