Emma Richardson-Calladine, recycling manager for the States of Jersey, warned it was the same as fly-tipping and was unnecessary when it is free to take them to La Collette or arrange for them to be collected.
‘You see trees being dumped every year after Christmas, which is quite frustrating because part of the process of getting a real tree is what you do with it afterwards. Dumping them basically equates to fly-tipping, which some people might not realise because they think it will naturally compost on it’s own. But real Christmas trees are very woody and won’t break down on their own for a long time and can cause obstructions. Leaving trees on the side of the road is dangerous, as it can cause accidents.’
Mrs Richardson-Calladine added that despite her department’s annual reminder, some Islanders still seem to be confused about what to do with their trees after Christmas.
‘It is worth reminding people not to dump trees at the mini-recycling centres around the Island as well.
‘I spotted one that had been left beside the recycling bins at Holme Grown in Grouville the other day, which is doubly as frustrating as it isn’t a long drive to La Collette from anywhere in the Island.
‘We all have to be responsible for our own waste and make an effort. A few of my colleagues have seen trees left by the side of the road with decorations still on, which can ruin any potential compost with glitter and plastic.
‘If someone was able to collect the tree in a car and bring it to their house in the first place, then they can drive it to the recycling centre.
‘Plus, we shred the trees to make compost to grow beautiful things around the Island, so it’s a win-win for all of us to make the trip.’
