Thousands of Christmas trees recycled in record-breaking eco project
Successful campaign raises over £41,000 for local hospices
An eco-friendly Christmas tree recycling campaign in North Somerset has marked its most successful year yet, raising over £41,000 for local hospices and repurposing thousands of trees.
The initiative, which has run for six years, is a collaboration between Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, St Peter’s Hospice, Weston Hospice, North Somerset Environment Company (NSEC), Glendale Services, and North Somerset Council.
Largest number of recycled trees for animal enrichment
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm has repurposed around 4,000 real Christmas trees this year, making it the most they’ve recycled since the project began. The trees provided environmental enrichment for the zoo’s animals, were chipped for site management, and contributed to shrinking waste output.
A standout feature of this year’s recycling effort was the creation of a bear mosaic, showcasing how donated trees can become art while promoting community-led environmental efforts.
Charitable funds raised for hospice care
Community support played a key role in raising funds for hospice care during the project. St Peter’s Hospice raised over £21,400 through recycling 1,075 trees. This funding will pay for 98 night nurse shifts to help patients and families across the region.
Weston Hospice recycled 940 trees, generating £19,872.50 to support their crucial services in North Somerset.
Council thanks participants and announces next steps
North Somerset Council has expressed gratitude to those who donated trees or supported the initiative this year. Cllr Annemieke Waite, Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment, said: “Tree-cycling continues to be a shining example of how our community comes together to reduce waste, care for the environment and support much-loved local charities.
“Huge thanks go to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, St Peter’s Hospice, Weston Hospice, NSEC, Glendale Services, and all of our teams involved, as well as every resident who donated a tree or helped spread the word. Tree-cycling will return next winter, ready for another fantastic year.”
The council reminds people who are still disposing of real Christmas trees that they can recycle them at their nearest North Somerset recycling centre.
For more information about recycling and waste, check out www.n-somerset.gov.uk/recycling.