OUR ADVICE – Natural or artificial? Spruce or Nordmann? 5.9 million French families are preparing to buy a Christmas tree… but how to choose the right one? Le Figaro guides you.
The magic of Christmas is here… and with it its share of puzzles. The greatest of them? Christmas shopping, of course. Gifts, meals – but also the essential tree.In 2023, around 5.9 million French families will have the emblematic conifer to decorate their living rooms. Though, the search for the perfect tree is a road full of pitfalls.Spruce or Nordmann? Large surface area or small producer? Natural or artificial tree? Don’t panic…Le Figaro takes stock of four key questions.
1-Natural or artificial tree?
The natural tree remains the most common choice: 5.3 million French people bought one in 2023, compared to 600,000 for artificial trees. But is it a wise choice? From a price point of view, the artificial tree seems more convenient. Actually, if every now and then it costs more, on average 56.30 euros compared to 31.19 euros for a lovely natural one according to the VALHOR barometer (the French inter-profession of horticulture, floristry and landscaping), it can be preserved for several consecutive years.
But be careful: if you immediately think that an artificial tree is more ecological because it allows you to do so “save a tree”in reality it is nothing of the sort. Indeed, most artificial trees sold in France are manufactured in China from petroleum derivatives, which represents a large carbon footprint linked to raw materials and transport. the Ademe (Agency for the Surroundings and Energy Management) estimates that a natural tree requires on average 3.1 kg of carbon, compared to 8.1 kg for an artificial tree. It would thus be necesary to maintain the latter for at least twenty years to make its carbon footprint profitable… while its average life is estimated to be six-seven years.
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Cultivation, tree selection, cutting… Behind the scenes of the production of ”made in France” Christmas trees.
2-Epicéa or Nordmann?
When it comes to variety, it’s all a question of taste, but also of your wallet. Nordmann remains the star of French firs, with 78.4% of sales according to VALHOR. its main advantage: its excellent durability. Store the needles for three to four weeks, which ensures a still-fresh tree come New Year’s Eve. It can also be purchased from the beginning of December,to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere for as long as possible.
spruce, conversely, is much less durable.It is indeed thus advisable to purchase it only a few days before December 25th, to be sure of having a fresh tree. Its advantage: its characteristic resinous smell, which perfumes your living room with a “Scent of Christmas”. In comparison, Nordmann is almost odorless. Spruce is also cheaper: 25.4 euros on average versus 32.8 euros for its rival. So durability, fragrance or low prices… it’s up to you to judge.
3-Large shop, garden center or small operator?
When it comes to prices, supermarkets are hard to beat. In fact, they can reduce prices by focusing on their very high sales volumes. Not to mention that, during the Christmas period, the tree often acts as a “loss product” to attract customers. Many large retail brands do not hesitate to compete with attractive offers: Intermarché refunds around 25% of the value of the tree
the fact remains that many French people choose smaller companies. Garden centers and LISA (agricultural self-service) have risen to the same level as large-scale retail trade, representing 28% of sales against 29%.The trend is favorable to them too: the distribution giants record a 2% drop in their market shares in 2023, compared to a 4% increase for garden centers and LISA. The advantage of these brands: a wider choice of tree varieties and sizes, despite slightly higher prices. Some of them even have great deals: Botanic offers a coupon if you return your tree to one of their stores after the holidays.
you can contact the manufacturer directly. The website of the French Association of Natural Christmas Trees lists all the contact details of nurserymen in France: don’t hesitate to contact them if you don’t live far away.In addition to guaranteeing the purchase of a freshly cut tree of French origin, this will allow you to save on the margins associated with intermediaries.
A truly green tree is possible. To do this, monitoring the origin of the tree you purchase is an essential reflex. Indeed, in 2023, 20% of the fir trees sold in France, and in particular in supermarkets, where imported from Belgium or Denmark… with a carbon footprint increased by transport. And let’s reassure ourselves: buying French doesn’t mean razing our forests to the ground. Actually, most Christmas trees «made in France» in fact, they come from around 5,000 hectares specifically dedicated to their cultivation.
pay attention to the labels. The traditional “Organic farming” it is indeed the most demanding: it certifies that the fir was grown without plant protection products, pesticides or chemical fertilizers. “Blue Plant”created in 2011 by the French Interprofession of Horticulture, Floristics and Landscape (Val’hor), or the Dutch brand MPS, are also guarantees of compliance with environmental specifications.As for the famous «Red Label»Warning: it does not guarantee French origin or the absence of pesticides. It exclusively certifies the aesthetic qualities of the tree, as well as late felling and lower planting density. Now you have the weapons in your hands to make the best choice!
What are the environmental impacts of natural versus artificial Christmas trees?
Interview: Navigating the Forest of Christmas Tree Choices
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this special holiday edition of our interview series! Today, we’re joined by Dr. Claire Beaumont, an environmental economist and expert on lasting holiday practices, to discuss one of the most enchanting yet puzzling aspects of the season: choosing the perfect Christmas tree. Claire, thank you for being here!
Dr. Claire Beaumont: Thank you for having me! it’s splendid to be part of the holiday spirit and discuss such an important choice for many families.
Editor: Let’s dive right into it—this year, around 5.9 million families in France are gearing up to buy a Christmas tree.The big question: should they choose a natural tree or an artificial one?
Dr. Beaumont: That’s definately a hot topic! while 5.3 million people opted for natural trees this year, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.Natural trees do bring that conventional charm and fresh scent, but many think artificial trees are a more eco-amiable option as they can be reused. Though, the reality is that most artificial trees are manufactured in China, frequently enough from petroleum products, which significantly increases their carbon footprint.
Editor: Captivating point! You mentioned the carbon footprint involved. Can you elaborate on the numbers?
Dr. Beaumont: Absolutely! On average, a natural Christmas tree has a carbon footprint of around 3.1 kg, while an artificial tree can be as high as 8.1 kg. To break even in terms of carbon emissions, an artificial tree would need to be used for at least 20 years, despite its average lifespan being only about six to seven years.This means that for most families, a natural tree may actually be the more sustainable choice.
Editor: That’s a surprising twist! So,if families do lean towards natural trees,they face another choice: Spruce or Nordmann? What’s your take on this?
Dr. Beaumont: It’s realy about preference! The Nordmann fir is incredibly popular, accounting for 78.4% of sales in France. It has remarkable needle retention, staying fresh and vibrant for weeks, which is a big advantage during the festive season. Conversely, Spruce trees, while beautiful, tend to shed needles more quickly, which can make maintenance a bit trickier.
Editor: So, more durability means less hassle! But what should families consider in terms of cost when choosing between these two types?
Dr. Beaumont: Great question! While a Nordmann might carry a higher price tag—averaging around €56.30 compared to a natural Spruce at about €31.19—many people find the ease of care and durability of the Nordmann well worth the investment. Ultimately, it comes down to balancing your desire for convenience and your budget.
editor: And I imagine availability is another consideration. With many families purchasing trees, is ther a push toward supporting local producers?
Dr. Beaumont: Yes, exactly! Supporting local tree farms not only contributes positively to the local economy but also reduces the transport-related carbon footprint. It’s a win-win for community and environment. Families should definitely look into where their trees come from—buying local can amplify the festive spirit.
Editor: Before we wrap things up,what final thoughts can you share with families as they prepare to choose their Christmas tree this year?
Dr. beaumont: Remember that your Christmas tree is not just a decoration; it’s part of a larger environmental story. Whether you choose a natural or artificial tree, consider the health of our planet. Opting for local, natural trees is a step toward sustainable holiday practices. And most importantly, enjoy the process of selecting and decorating your tree—it’s a cherished holiday tradition that brings families together!
Editor: Thank you so much, Claire, for your insights! It’s clear that selecting a Christmas tree involves more than just aesthetics—it’s also about making conscious choices that benefit our environment.
Dr. Beaumont: thank you for having me! Happy holidays to you and your readers!
Editor: Happy holidays to you as well, and may your festive season be filled with joy and sustainability!