Seven creative ways to recycle your Christmas tree

We spoke with Gareth Rondel, sustainability expert at David Wilson Homes, who helped to curate our top innovative recycling solutions that go beyond the norm:

“Following the Christmas period, it’s estimated that the UK will dispose of 8 million Christmas trees. If they’re not reused or recycled, the trees can end up in landfill. While many people are familiar with basic recycling practices, there are lots of creative ways to repurpose Christmas trees.

“From creating natural air fresheners to creating a habitat for natural wildlife, this year, we want to encourage more people to reuse and repurpose their Christmas trees to help protect the environment and nurture local wildlife.”

With 30% of Brits planning to bring the magic of a real Christmas tree into their homes this festive season, it's concerning that many households admit their tree ultimately ends up in the bin once the celebrations are over.

Here are seven hacks to help you enjoy a more sustainable Christmas:

1. Transform pine needles into natural air fresheners

“If you can’t keep it potted all year, put your Christmas tree to use by making natural air fresheners. Strip the needles from your tree’s branches and combine them with cinnamon sticks and dried orange peel to create natural potpourri sachets. These make fantastic natural air fresheners that last throughout the year.”

2. Make your own mulch

“If you shred your Christmas tree, you can make great winter mulch for garden beds, shrubs, and paths. Many local authorities offer tree recycling services, where you can take your tree to be shredded into mulch for community use. Alternatively, you can cut the branches into smaller pieces and lay them over bulbs and perennials to provide insulation, helping to protect your plants during the cold winter months. For those with a compost pile, laying some boughs on top can keep it warm, allowing it to continue breaking down materials over the winter.”

3. Make coasters

“If you’re looking for ways to get creative and turn this year’s tree into next year’s presents, why not have a go at making coasters. Strip the boughs off the trunk and cut the trunk into half-inch discs (leave the bark on). Sand both sides with a heavy grit paper, then smooth it out with a finer grit before applying a thin coat of varnish. Then simply pop them away until next year when you can give sets of 4 as beautiful homemade gifts.”

4. Turn it into a wildlife habitat

“If you have space in your garden, find a remote spot and lay the tree on its side to create a brush pile. According to the wildlife biologists at Backyard Ecology, this can create a great place for rabbits and other small mammals to live. 

5. Replant your Christmas tree

“If you have a real Christmas tree, who says it only deserves to be seen in December? Why not plant it in a pot in a garden to give it a new lease of life. You could also add bird feeders to provide shelter for wildlife.”

6. Donate your tree to a local hospice

“Local hospices often offer to collect and recycle your tree for a small donation. This means that you are doing some good for the environment and for a local charity.”

7. Feed the goats

“Believe it or not, Christmas trees are actually a highly nutritious treat for goats, donkeys and alpacas. Because of this, a lot of farms and animal sanctuaries such as often accept or request donations of Christmas trees at the end of the festive season.

“If your tree is still thriving it has plenty of health benefits for these animals. They are packed vitamin C, antioxidants, and act as a natural de-wormer.

“If this sounds like something you’re interested in, search online for your nearest animal sanctuary and drop them a message to see if they’d like your tree.”

For those moving into new homes, these ideas can also inspire eco-friendly practices that make your garden and outdoor spaces more vibrant. Start the new year by embracing sustainability and making the most of your Christmas tree in innovative and meaningful ways.

Methodology

We surveyed 500 UK homeowners on their Christmas tree recycling habits. Survey conducted December 2024.