The Christmas tree (or Christmukkah tree, for some of us) is the focal point of so many holiday traditions, from decorating to presents to every pine-scented, twinkle-lit memory in-between. But how many of us understand where our trees come from or the environmental impact of choosing a tree?

In California, more than 90 percent of the real Christmas trees sold during the holidays come from farms in the Pacific Northwest. These trees are cultivated, grown and harvested on sustainable farms, just like produce, nuts and other crops, so they do not threaten natural forests.

“Buying a real Christmas tree is the next ‘green decision’ the public can make,” said Christmas tree expert Mike Bondi, a professor and extension manager at Oregon State University’s College of Forestry. “In fact, a real tree is the safest choice since the tree is helpful to the environment from the time it is planted right up to the recycling process.” He has a point. While fake trees do get points for being re-usable, they certainly aren’t processing carbon dioxide as they “mature” along factory assembly lines.

Bondi also points out that the soil used by Christmas tree farmers is often unsuitable for growing produce or other crops. But in the years it takes real Christmas trees to fully develop, those trees are reducing carbon emissions by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. And for each tree that is harvested, responsible growers will plant one to two more to ensure their next harvest is successful. It’s important to note that trees grown with pesticides are, for obvious reasons, not so eco-friendly. Look for trees that are certified organic to really get your green’s worth, and try to buy from local farms to minimize transportation emissions.

Last, but not least, real Christmas trees can be recycled. Recycled trees can be used as mulch along park trails, turned into corrugated packaging, or mulch and compost for gardens. Try doing that with a hot-pink pre-lit plastic and tinsel tree! (Yes, they still make those, and no, they won’t biodegrade before your great grandchildren are born.)

Most City and County recycling programs in our area will collect Christmas trees curbside, at no extra charge, after the holidays. Visit Earth911.org for more info on tree recycling in your neighborhood. While you’re there, find out how to recycle other stuff too, like cardboard and plastic packaging, toys, batteries and electronics. (Too bad they don’t take fruitcake.)

For tips to keep your real tree happy this holiday, check out "Keeping It Fresh," an Online Extra in this issue, exclusively at SacramentoParent.com.

Courtesy of the Pacific Northwest Christmas Tree Association. For more information about real Christmas trees, visit www.nwtrees.com.