It’s that time of year where you’ll begin to see Christmas trees lining the sidewalks on trash day. However, many Philadelphians may be unaware that you do not need to throw away your tree. You can recycle it instead.
Philadelphia’s Christmas Tree Recycling Program runs from January 4, 2016 through January 16, 2016. You can drop your tree at any of the following Streets Department Sanitation Convenience Centers Monday through Saturday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm:
- 3901 N Delaware Ave.
- 5100 Grays Ave.
- 2601 West Glenwood Ave.
- 3033 South 63rd St.
- Domino Lane and Umbria Street
- State Road and Ashburner Street
Additional drop-off locations are available only Saturday, January 9 and Saturday, January 16 between 9am and 3pm. You can find a list of those locations here. Just make sure that your tree is completely free of decorations and untied!
What if I can’t drop off my tree?
Christmas trees can also be collected at curbside on trash day, though these trees won’t be recycled. If you’re looking for ways to reuse your Christmas tree yourself, check out these suggestions from the City of Philadelphia Streets Department:
- Purchase potted trees and plant them after the holidays
- Use small pine limbs and needles as good winter mulch material
- Include your tree in backyard compost
If you live outside of Philadelphia, be sure to check with your local waste and sanitation department for Christmas tree recycling programs.