Like a Partridge, many of us believe that a big part of our holiday celebrations require a tree – certainly not a “Pear Tree,” but a tree nonetheless.

 But, what is a “green” tree?

There is no simple answer and there is an ongoing debate about which is better – a fake or real Christmas tree.  

So, I looked to the experts at Grist and TreeHugger for a decision.  Both think that a real tree is the best option.

Why?  Well let’s look at artificial trees.  You’d think that an artificial tree would be the greener option because no real tree is being sacrificed and the artificial tree will be used year after year. No, say the experts.  Artificial trees are generally made of petroleum based plastic, usually PVC.  Even worse, lead is apparently used to stabilize certain PVC products.  Not what I would want the kids, or in my case pets, playing around for a month or so.

Since most Christmas lot trees are now grown on tree farms, some argue that it doesn’t really hurt the forests when they are cut down because they are generally replanted.  As a matter of fact, an estimated 40 million to 45 million trees were planted in 2008 in North America, according to the National Christmas Tree Association. While they are growing, trees in the tree farms provide habitat for wildlife, remove dust and pollen from the air and absorb carbon dioxide. Plus they smell good.

And the “real tree” advocates also argue in favor of fresh trees because artificial ones must travel great distances – often from China – to get into the stores.   Of course, one of the downsides of a real tree is what is done with it after the season – trees in landfills are not terribly “green”. 

So, if you decide that you are going to be one of the 33 million North Americans that will have a real Christmas tree in your home this year, recycle it at the end of the season, rather than throwing it in the trash. By recycling your fresh Christmas tree, you can reduce the amount of waste going to your local landfill. Recycled trees are often turned into wood chips and/or mulch that local county park landscapers and homeowners can use around their existing yard plants. Many local cities are now offering tree recycling pick-up for free. Just contact your local recycling center for instructions and pick-up dates in your area.

It is that time of year when we take the time to reflect on what is important to us and say thank you.  Without our customers, we wouldn’t be us.  That is why, first and foremost, we want to say “thank you” to our valued customers for being so loyal and and supportive.  We truly value your business and the relationships that you have allowed us to build with you.

So, from our houses to yours:  Happy Thanksgiving and our very best wishes for a happy, healthly, safe and joyous day.

The holiday season is officially in full-swing:  Christmas is less than a month away and the festivities and holiday cheer will continue unabated until after the first of January.  But the holidays tend not to be very green-friendly.  For example, did you know that according to RecycleWorks, from Thanksgiving to New Years Day, household waste increases by more than 25 percent? 

And, how much is 25%?  According to Robert Lilienfed co-author of the book Use Less Stuff: Environmental Solutions for Who We Really Are, Americans will throw away a million extra tons of garbage each week.

So, let’s not undo all the good we’ve done already this year to protect the planet, and start a new holiday tradition by making some eco-friendly changes.

This year, don’t just think about the “12 days of Christmas”;  Starting on December 2nd,  Limousine Livery is adding a new twist by giving you “12 ways to green your Christmas!”

Stay tuned!

Today is the start of the traditional holiday travel season.  It seems that - no matter how bad the economy – people make the effort to be with friends and family.  Take a  look at some holiday travel numbers.