It's time to recycling those Christmas trees, Philadelphia. Remove the trimmings and take your tree to one of the many drop-off locations available throughout the city. (Photo courtesy South Street Headhouse District)
Are pine needles collecting on your living room floor? It's about time to unplug those strings of lights and take down that festive tree.
If you'd rather your Christmas tree end up as wood chips rather than in a landfill, take note. Trees that are put out with regular trash on the curb will be treated as trash, not as recycling. Trees that are brought to designated sanitation centers will be used for good! They will be composted or turned into mulch.
Fortunately, several organizations step up each year to help Philadelphians dispose of trees in an eco-friendly way. Just make sure your tree is completely bare of decorations, bags and wrappings. Trees should also be untied, and you’re good to drop.
Read on for the city groups and non-profit organizations set to host Christmas tree recycling opportunities starting this Saturday, January 4:
University City District Tree & Electronics Recycling Day: In University City, bring out your fading trees as well as any outdated electronics to Clark Park for a day of recycling. Note the $10 suggested donation per tree for chipping. Electronics recycling is free, but there is a $20 charge for recycling cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs and monitors.
When: Saturday, January 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: University City, Clark Park, 43rd and Chester
Cost: $20 suggested donation
Greenlimbs Treecycling: Last year, local organization Greenlimbs recycled more than 400 trees with the help of Queen Village Neighbors Association, Washington Square West Civic Association, South Street Headhouse District, Whole Foods Market, the South Street Mini Police Station, Councilman Mark Squilla, and dedicated volunteers. For a $5 suggested donation, Greenlimbs will recycle your tree at any of the dozen drop-off locations in neighborhoods throughout the city. For a complete list of locations and times, check here.
When: Saturday, January 4 and Sunday, January 5
Where: Multiple locations throughout Philadelphia
Cost: $5 suggested donation
City of Philadelphia Streets Department Tree Recycling Program: For those who can’t drop off a tree this weekend, look to the City of Philadelphia Streets Department, which offers tree recycling starting on Monday, January 6 and continuing through Saturday, January 18. Monday through Saturday, drop trees at one of three Streets Department Sanitation Convenience Centers between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. For locations, check here.
When: Monday-Saturday, January 6-18, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Streets Department Sanitation Convenience Centers, 3033 South 63rd Street; Domino Lane and Umbria streets; State Road and Ashburner streets
Cost: $5 suggested donation