The environmental ethics of Christmas tree production is a significant concern for many people in France’s Morvan Natural Park due to the use of chemical herbicides.
This remote region in Burgundy generates over a million young firs annually, making it France’s leading producer. However, while some locals appreciate the economic benefits, others express concern over the environmental impact.
“The production of Christmas trees, because of the use of chemical herbicides, can have an impact on water resources,” according to the park’s website.
Only a small fraction of Christmas tree farms operate organically, both here and elsewhere, mostly relying heavily on chemical treatments.
While there are ongoing efforts to decrease the use of herbicides and pesticides, their adverse effects are widely acknowledged.
The authorities are taking action to minimise the activity’s impact and ensure it aligns with high-quality water standards. However, campaigners believe this move is just the tip of the iceberg.
A Local farmer and activist, Muriel André, showed a typical small-scale plantation near her home. The field, previously used for grazing, now houses about 20,000 saplings planted by a farmer from a nearby county who isn’t present.
Grass and weeds flourish around the edges, but beneath the young trees, only bare soil and a few strands of dead plants exist. André attributes this to the herbicides sprayed to eliminate any plants that could compete with the trees.
“I have nothing against Christmas trees. I have my own fond memories of decorating them as a girl, but times have changed. We are living through an ecological transition. Everything that pollutes has got to stop,” said André.
Moreover, French customers are questioning the ethics of rapidly growing millions of saplings only to have them chopped down and displayed in homes for just a couple of weeks.
The Naudet company in Planchez, a Christmas tree cultivator since 1956, acknowledges that they previously overlooked the issues with herbicides. However, they claim to have shifted their approach.
The director-general of the Naudet company, Martin Naudet, admits that almost all Christmas tree production still involves chemicals.
Attempts to go chemical-free have been unsuccessful due to the higher costs and less appealing appearance of the trees. Naudet also stated that they’re striving to reduce their chemical usage and that their plantations now host a diverse range of species.
Naudet admits that almost all Christmas tree production still involves chemicals. Attempts to go chemical-free have been unsuccessful due to the higher costs and less appealing appearance of the trees.
