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I believe that using real trees for Christmas is a waste of thousands of healthy trees, cut down in their prime. In one of the Christmas episodes on "Friends" Phoebe campaigns on the behalf of last years trees and berates Joey for heartlessly promoting the sale of the largest, greenest, newest trees. Although it was naturally overstated for the comedy aspect, the character emphasised a valid point. It saddens me to walk past the corner of my street where they stand propped up all wrapped up, for in my opinion they have been needlessly cut down. After Christmas is over the used trees are thrown away, and the streets are littered by them, waiting to be taken away.

We have a tree shortage in the world, with our rain forests being destroyed, as for many years trees were just cut down and were not replaced. This now has become the norm in an effort to address the problem. At least these trees are used for their wood and have a useful, productive purpose. However Christmas trees are grown for just for one purpose, to be cut down to be decorated for a couple of weeks and then thrown.

I understand the tradition of having trees, and recognise the symbolism behind the evergreen; however I believe that an artificial evergreen tree can show the same symbol. Real trees do not have to be cut and ruined for the sake of symbolism. Our family have had the same artificial tree for thirty years, which has always served its purpose. It never changes year on year, and I believe it will always remain standing tall over the crib and presents.

I believe that it is an unnecessary expense to buy a tree every year, when you could buy a tree which could last a decade or two. Also with real trees the leaves fall off as soon as look at them, littering the floor constantly. People say the expense is worth it for the lovely smell of foliage in the house, mingling with the smell of Christmas dinner and baking, however I question that.

Christmas should be about being together as a family and celebrating the birth of Christ. I believe that too much store is put on the tree, trimmings and extras which just deflects our attention from the true focus. It is great to come together as a family and decorate the tree and house with beautiful decorations whilst singing along with favourite carols around mouthfuls of mince pies; however I do not see why a real tree has to be used. The magic is not lost by having an artificial tree.

Learn more about this author, Hannah Curtis.
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