As the holiday season approaches, some of us begin to plan for the weeks ahead. But here is one thing you won’t need to worry about: what to do with your Christmas tree once the festivities wind down.
UBC Botanical Garden, in partnership with SPEC (Society Promoting Environmental Conservation), will once again welcome the community to recycle Christmas trees for a suggested donation of $5. This annual program helps reduce waste, supports sustainable land care at the Garden, and contributes to meaningful environmental education in our region.
Why Tree Recycling Matters
Recycling your Christmas tree is a simple and climate-friendly way to close out the season. Instead of sending organic material to the landfill, your tree is turned into nutrient-rich mulch that improves soil structure, retains moisture, and supports healthy plant communities at the Garden.
Supporting Youth in Our Community
Proceeds from this year’s tree recycling program will help sustain garden-based programming for students at Blundell Elementary School in Richmond. Through SPEC’s School Gardens Program, staff partner with Richmond Addiction Youth Services (RASS) to provide interactive gardening and food literacy sessions as part of the School’s Out after-school program.
The gardening program offers students a free, supportive space to connect with nature, grow food, and build confidence and curiosity. Funds raised through this year’s recycling initiative will help ensure this programming continues and may also support future updates to the school’s garden space.
Give Your Tree a Second Life This Season
Before bringing your tree, please remove all tinsel, ornaments, hooks and decorations.
Tree drop-off at a glance:
- When: December 26-January 11
- Time: 10am–2pm
- Where: UBC Botanical Garden
- Suggested Donation: $5
We look forward to welcoming you to the Garden and thank you for helping make this season a little greener—for our community and for the next generation.