Christmas tree recycling in 2009. Photo: Croydon Council

Taking down the Christmas tree is usually tinged with an element of sadness, but this year in Croydon it is an opportunity to both win and give back through the council’s recycling competition.

To encourage the recycling of Christmas trees in the borough, Croydon council have launched a competition which could see one lucky resident win a locally sourced, sustainably farmed tree for next year, as well as a mention in the council magazine.

Residents are being asked to take snaps of themselves dropping off their tree at one of Croydon’s 18 recycling points, and the recycling team will then choose their favourite picture to feature in the magazine. The winner will also have a natural tree delivered to their door in time for next year’s festive season.

The use of real Christmas trees has become increasingly popular, as awareness of the environmental benefits becomes widespread. Each year, up to 180,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide are absorbed by the 30,000 hectares of Christmas trees growing in the UK. Once recycled and composted, used trees then return valuable nutrients to the soil.

Councillor Phil Thomas, cabinet member for environment and highways, said: “Last year we collected some 10,000 trees, but this year I’d like to top that figure. Recycling these trees isn’t just the best option for the environment, it also saves us a lot of money on landfill by encouraging people to not just chop them up and put them in the bin.

“It will be great to see pictures of all the people who make use of our facilities, and I’m looking forward to seeing the winning snap.”

Drop off trees for recycling from 2 to 9 January, and email your photo by 11 January to slimbin@croydon.gov.uk

For more information, visit: www.croydon.gov.uk/christmas