For ecological and/or economic reasons, many of us opt for a plastic Christmas tree – near and far, the difference with a “real” Christmas tree is practically imperceptible! Yes but here it is: although super-practical (especially because they can be brought out from one year to the next…), these artificial Christmas trees could harm our health.
Asked by our colleagues at the Huffington Post, Bryan Cummings, a researcher at Drexel University’s College of Engineering (in the United States), affirms that artificial Christmas trees could release toxic compounds into the air – thus contributing to the pollution of the indoor air.
“These artificial trees contain plastics and PVC (polyvinyl chloride): these contain phthalates” he underlines. However, as explained by the National Cancer Institute, phthalates are endocrine disruptors with a potentially carcinogenic action.
Pollutants in artificial Christmas trees
In addition, plastic Christmas trees are usually coated with flame retardants – to prevent fires! “When exposed to them over the long term, these substances can be toxic to the nervous system and/or participate in the development of certain cancers.” remarks the American researcher.
Should we do without a Christmas tree? No, answers the researcher, who explains that artificial Christmas trees are not a major source of indoor air pollution. If you want to limit it as much as possible, Bryan Cummings recommends that you assemble your artificial Christmas tree in the garage or on the terrace rather than in your living room. Moreover, even in winter and when it is cold, it is still advisable to ventilate your home for at least 10 minutes every day.
Source : Huffington Post
