If you have a real tree for Christmas there is a chance for you to put something back into the environment.

When you take the decorations off your Christmas tree there is a great temptation to just take the old tree to the local tip and throw it away, but we can do better than that.

Many local authorities have a re-cycling scheme for old Christmas trees, where the old tree is shredded and the shavings that are produced are then used as a mulch or compost in pine forests.

The acidity of the pine needles does not make it suitable for use as a general garden compost, but it is ideal for use in evergreen forests.

In the Nottinghamshire area the Forestry Commission run the scheme. Before Christmas they sell trees at very reasonable prices, but when you buy a tree you do so on the understanding that you will return it for re-cycling after Christmas.

Most of these schemes are advertised well in the local press or on local radio stations, but if you can’t find one straight away then when your local council offices open after the Christmas break why not give them a ring to see if such a scheme exists in your area.

Do the right thing, re-cycle your tree.