Creating a Toxin-Free Holiday: A Guide to Green and Bright Decorations
Unveiling the hidden health risks in holiday decorations and how to choose safer alternatives for a joyful season.
An overlooked health hazard often lurks amid our festively adorned living rooms: Our beloved holiday decorations.
Christmas Trees
As the holiday season approaches, the Christmas tree becomes a central focus in many American homes. Nielsen Research notes a significant trend toward artificial trees. About 13 million of these trees, representing more than $1 billion in spending, will find their way into U.S. homes this season. However, this trend raises an important question: Are consumers aware of the risks associated with artificial trees?
A vast majority of these artificial trees are imported from China. Their primary components—metals and plastics, particularly polyvinyl chloride (PVC)—conceal a less festive truth.
The production of artificial trees also poses environmental challenges. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, these petroleum-based products are frequently disposed of within nine years, contributing to long-term waste in landfills. “That’s a pretty hefty, long-term environmental burden,” the association states.
Real Christmas trees are a more environmentally friendly option. “While they’re growing, real Christmas trees absorb carbon dioxide and other gasses and emit fresh oxygen,” the National Christmas Tree Association states. These trees are grown on farms like any crop, with about 350 million conifer trees currently growing on U.S. farms.
“These trees would not exist if not planted by Christmas tree farmers,” the association states, emphasizing the positive environmental role of these farms. Additionally, real Christmas trees can be composted or recycled, unlike their artificial counterparts.
Christmas Tree ‘Fire-Retardant’ Solution:
- 2 gallons of hot water
- 2 cups of Karo syrup
- 2 ounces of liquid bleach
- A couple of pinches of Epsom salts
- 1/2 cup of borax
- 1 teaspoon of chelated iron (can be found in garden shops)
Applying this solution to a freshly cut base of the tree and filling the stand’s reservoir with it helps maintain the tree’s freshness and reduces the risk of fire. It’s important to regularly check the water level in the stand, particularly in the initial days and near heat sources.
“A fresh tree will drink several GALLONS of water over the general 10-14 day period they are up in your home,” the agency states.
For those seeking creative alternatives, DIY (do-it-yourself) trees made from sustainable materials offer a unique and eco-friendly holiday centerpiece. These options not only reduce the environmental effects but also bring a personal and imaginative touch to holiday celebrations.
String Lights
Many Christmas lights have lead in their PVC coatings, used to prevent deterioration. Lead is a known toxin with serious health implications, particularly for children and pregnant women. Even minimal exposure can cause neurological impairments and developmental delays.
Considering these risks, one might want to find safer alternatives. However, completely nontoxic Christmas lights are currently unavailable. All holiday string lights, including LEDs, contain at least trace amounts of harmful chemicals such as lead, other heavy metals, and phthalates.
Ornaments
The study also found high concentrations of arsenic in these products. Furthermore, nearly a third exhibited elevated bromine levels, suggesting the use of brominated flame retardants.
Given these findings, opting for ornaments and decorations labeled as made from nontoxic materials, or those certified by recognized health and safety organizations, can help reduce the risk of introducing harmful chemicals into homes.
To enhance holiday décor safely, consider using ornaments made from natural materials such as wood, fabric, and clay. DIY decorations with safe, nontoxic materials and paints not only foster a healthier environment but also add a unique, creative touch to the festivities.
Wrapping Paper
Numerous wrapping papers contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Released into the air during unwrapping, these VOCs, including formaldehyde, benzene, and acetone, can pose health risks. They may lead to immediate symptoms such as headaches and skin irritation, and with prolonged exposure, they might be linked to chronic conditions such as eczema, asthma, and even cancer.
In response to these issues, there’s a growing trend toward more sustainable and health-conscious wrapping options. Alternatives include recycled paper free of harmful dyes and laminations, reusable cloth wraps such as dishcloths or pillowcases, craft paper or old newspapers for a vintage look, and natural decora-tive materials such as leaves and pinecones for a unique, personal touch. Some families wrap their presents in brightly colored newspaper flyers.
Prioritizing Health in Holiday Traditions
In the context of holiday celebrations, it’s worth considering the balance between commercial interests and health-conscious decisions. Choosing healthier alternatives in holiday décor aligns with growing consumer awareness about the potential health risks associated with certain traditional products—and may compel companies to create safer products.
With increasing awareness about the health effects of certain holiday products, consumers might advo-cate safer options. This awareness may also inspire a return to more traditional and basic forms of celebration. Such a change would reflect a growing preference for health and safety during the holiday season, potentially leading to a more balanced and health-conscious approach to festivities.