Christmas Tree Recycling

Every year, thousands of Edmontonians celebrate the holidays by bringing a natural Christmas tree into their homes. But once the holidays are through, what does the City do with all those trees?

On average, the City collects around 7,000 trees every January. These trees are brought to the Edmonton Waste Management Centre, where they are turned into mulch, which is used to help create compost. However, greenhouse gasses are still created when transporting and processing natural trees.

Buying an artificial tree can be a good choice, but only if you are committing to it for the long run and donating it once you’re done with it. If you are using an artificial tree, keep in mind that it takes a minimum of eight years to offset the greenhouse gasses compared to buying a natural tree. The Reuse Centre is one place you can donate and find second hand artificial Christmas trees at this time of year!

Whatever type of tree you choose, take steps to limit its impact!

Curbside Collection:

• Curbside collection of natural Christmas trees starts on January 9, 2023. Set your tree out before 7 a.m. on January 9.
• Trees may be picked up as late as February 10, 2023 and not necessarily on resident’s regular scheduled collection days. If it is not collected by this date, and was set out by January 9, please call 311.
• Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, garlands, nails, screws and tree stands. This allows us to chip and compost your tree.
• Cut trees larger than 2 metres (6.5 feet) into smaller pieces. This keeps your collector safe.

Drop-off Services:

• Residents are encouraged to drop off their natural Christmas tree for free at a Recycling Depot from December 27, 2022 until February 6, 2023, or at an Eco Station any time during the year.
• Apartment and Condo residents must use drop-off services to dispose of their Christmas trees. They cannot be placed near apartment garbage bins or blue bins.

For more information, visit edmonton.ca/WastelessHolidays.